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Ultimate Sin
Ultimum Judicium: The Last Judgment follows a prophet living in a civilization that has fallen who has been chosen by God to lead the survivors on an odyssey to a place of redemption while battling his own inner demons. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The current state of the world is the basis for what prompted me to explore a future doomsday scenario in my novel—a warning, maybe? There is more anger and disagreement than I’ve ever before seen or read, leading to fighting and rioting that could ultimately lead to the end of civilization—or so it did in my book.
Ultimum Judicium is a novel exploring the classic concept of good versus evil. Growing up as a Roman Catholic, and that being the largest formal religion in the world, I adopted that Christian perspective for this book. The basis for most end-of-world stories seems to be rooted in themes of good vs evil, focusing on exorcism and demonic possession governed by Catholicism. The priest I created was ordained by God, the good, and is tempted by Satan, the evil. Here, I gave him a weakness in his attraction and passion for women—an ultimate sin for a priest. The story follows the Christian Bible’s Revelation. It is the journey to Armageddon—the last battle between good and evil.
I find the world you created in this novel is haunting and full of possibilities, with both light and dark elements. Where did the inspiration for the setting come from, and how did it change as you were writing?
The future I invented occurred 200 years after all governments of the world had fallen. A reader must try to envision exactly what a world would be like after so many years without laws or any civilization whatsoever. It would likely be a horror show. We can realize this with certainty after reading about the hairline fractures of civilization called wars that history has documented so clearly. In all wars, we saw the extreme brutality of humanity.
Once I committed to embracing that reality—one of extreme brutality—I found I had created a very different place. So, I contrasted the wickedness of such viciousness with love and kindness. Hence, I gave birth to three loving romances to counteract the savagery. Also, most of the characters within the stronghold, including the Manhig, or Leader, are good and caring people, except for the few bad ones.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
My book, Ultimum Judicium: The Last Judgment, explored good vs evil in a broken world. However, it also shows the resilience of men and women in such times. As with war, it shows humanity’s ability to overcome and survive. And ultimately, love will defeat hatred.
Where do you see your characters after the book ends?
At the end of this book, the characters judged as good went to a place some theologians refer to as the Millennial Kingdom of Saints from the book of Revelation. The evil went to be with Satan, locked in the pits of Hell for the same millennium period.
At the last minute, before this book went to publication, I removed the Aftermath written for the book. It thoroughly explained the actual places each character went and what they planned to give closure to the story.
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Since the dawn of humanity, people had always survived. Cultures fell, but new ones continually emerged and thrived. Humans fought wars, but they kept rebuilding after the destruction. That pattern changed in the future—everything did.
There were predictions and warnings—both spoken and written—but no one paid attention to them. As the ominous signs grew, still, no one obeyed. The unrighteous one kept everyone from seeing what was coming, even though it was obvious; he cast veils over their eyes. Not long after the final recorded year of 2040 AD, humanity faced a worldwide economic disaster of catastrophic proportions following years of street riots. Over time, human moral transgressions led to the collapse of societies worldwide. Countries turned against each other as the world became a wicked and ungodly place. More than two centuries after the last civilization fell, people lost the ability to speak—their capacity to verbalize had ended years earlier. Our future became our past—one marked by brutality and barbarism.
Guided by angels, a prophet chosen by God leads His remaining followers on an odyssey to a place of redemption. Anointed as Manhig, or Leader, he and his armies of male and female warriors are the only hope of preserving some form of civilization, where everyone must obey the laws or be forever banished into the now-wild wastelands of the countryside, overrun with destructive intruders.
Attracted to a feisty woman he cannot have and tempted by the young and beautiful, captivating yet sharp-witted and brilliant General Helen, the manhig wrestles with his inner demons—his inability to resist the lures of Satan regarding women. If he succumbs, the way of life he spent years cultivating will unfold—all will be lost.
The manhig leads his warriors and people from one temporary stronghold to another for defense in an otherwise shattered world—a place now dominated by hordes of unhuman beings: evil cannibalistic beasts, demons, and other mutations—created centuries earlier by the science of that long-ago era. Now living in a surreal culture, while following strange laws, customs, rituals, and practices, and speaking a vernacular of the future, the manhig commands his warriors while battling these creatures alongside many evil humans: thieves, wicked gangs, slave traders, and other nefarious characters who roam the wilderness as the followers journey toward a confrontation between good and evil—the last battle before God’s judgment.
The strongholds—an attempt by the manhig to provide some form of civilization to battle-weary warriors—taverns and bars for his followers to eat, drink, and socialize. They are also a haven of temptation from the evil one. Adultery—forbidden by law by the leader—manifests within those walls of protection as the end draws near.
Capacity for Greatness
Answering the Human Question: A Gnome’s Essays On Mankind is a story that imagines a world where humans coexist with mythical creatures like gnomes, elves, and dwarves. This is an intriguing setup for a novel that is high in social commentary. What was your moral goal when writing this novel, and do you feel you’ve achieved it?
Our goal with Answering the Human Question was to explore cycles of imperialism, oppression, and humanity’s will to triumph over adversity through a rich fantasy lens. At its core, we wanted to inspire readers to hold faith in humanity and themselves and to keep moving forward no matter what challenges life brings. Through this story of mythical creatures and humans living side-by-side, narrated by an immortal being who observes humanity across centuries, we aimed not only to entertain our readers but to also encourage reflection.
Through the Gnome’s musings on humanity’s resilience, contradictions, and potential for greatness, we invite our readers to see a mirror of their own lives, with echoes of history woven throughout. While the message is ultimately uplifting, we also emphasize caution. As seen in both the story and in our own history, such triumphs often come at a significant cost.
While it’s ultimately up to readers to decide if we’ve achieved our goal, we believe that by staying true to these themes and letting the story unfold authentically, we’ve come close to realizing this vision.
What are some things that you find interesting about the human condition that you think make for great fiction?
One of the most fascinating aspects of the human condition—one that lends itself well to fiction is our capacity for resilience and reinvention. Humans are remarkably adaptable, and exploring how characters respond to adversity—whether they bend, break, rebuild, or some combination of such—remains endlessly compelling. From our point of view, this very human trait is at the heart of stories that ask what it truly means to be human.
Another interesting facet that makes for some powerful storytelling is our ability to dream and imagine a future beyond our current circumstances. Characters who grapple with visions of a better world or who dare to push the boundaries of what is possible often lead to stories filled with wonder, hope, and transformation. Such a trait is not limited to personal ambition, it is about confronting fears, learning from failures, and still daring to reach further. At the same time, these aspirations carry the weight of personal sacrifice and unforeseen consequences, reminding us that pursuing progress and success often demands caution and discernment.
Finally, and perhaps most obvious and most significant in the novel, is our paradoxical relationship with time—that is our awareness of mortality yet longing for permanence. We humans are often driven by the desire to leave something behind, to matter, despite the inevitable end. That urgency in turn shapes our passions, our choices, and our relationships. Across fiction, it remains one of the most poignant aspects of ourselves to explore and thus makes for stories that feel both deeply personal and universally resonant.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
The themes we consider central to the book are humanity’s conflict with nature, capacity for greatness, and will to overcome adversity as well as the enduring legacy of those we hold dear. These themes are deeply significant because being history nerds, we’ve seen countless examples of them throughout human history. From our biblical fall from Eden to our evolutionary struggle to dominate the natural world, humanity’s rise to where we are now in spite of the odds is an inspiration of its own; as such, these themes continue to resonate, connecting to many on a personal level, making the story poignant and relevant.
Will there be a follow-up novel to this story? If so, what aspects of the story will the next book cover?
Indeed, we are excited to share that we have several ideas for follow-up stories within the universe of Master Gnome, with one already in progress! This next project is shaping up as a memoir from an ensemble cast of mostly new characters, each offering their own perspective as they navigate the trials of a wartime era. Through their lives and reflections, we’ll delve deeper into the world and its history, exploring the impact of the conflict and the choices people make when confronted by upheaval and uncertainty. We hope it brings readers a fresh perspective on the themes we began exploring in Answering the Human Question and offers an even closer look at resilience and courage in times of hardship.
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To aid in their decision, they summon a Gnome to give testimony. He is the only Elderkin to have witnessed and chronicled humanity’s rise, observing them since their first steps nearly ten thousand years ago. His essays, later compiled into a single text, distill those millennia—from humanity’s humble beginnings in the Stone Age to the brilliant and terrifying present.
“Answering the Human Question” is a tale that chronicles the rise and fall of empires, ages of dark lords and heroes, and the birth of ingenuity in the face of strife—and its consequences. Will Mankind falter and submit to a hostile world, or will it dare to dream of a better one?
An Unshakable Force
The Glitch follows a grieving man and video game designer who creates a virtual reality world with a wealthy entrepreneur, and the two disagree on how the world should be governed. This is an intriguing setup for a novel that is high in social commentary. When creating Trevor, did you have a plan for development and character traits, or did it grow organically as you were writing the story?
Trevor’s character evolved organically as the story unfolded. I knew from the start that he would grapple with the grief of losing his beloved dog, which would serve as the inciting incident that pushed him toward a quest for immortality through virtual reality. His role as a video game and VR designer was essential, giving him an innate understanding of creating worlds and allowing me to explore the concept of simulations. I also realized that this moment of loss would become a catalyst for Trevor to grapple with the deeper meanings of life and death. In a sense, his dog became his greatest teacher, introducing him to the concept of mortality.
As Trevor plunged deeper into the metaphorical rabbit hole, the layers of reality peeled away, revealing the intricate tapestry of existence. This journey led him not only to explore new worlds but also to confront his own humanity. With the guidance of an old man, who is essentially a reflection of himself, Trevor embarks on an inner journey far beyond the physical world he once knew. The clash of ideals between Trevor and Sam Malone added depth to this journey. Trevor’s vision for Utopia Zed was rooted in compassion and love, a manifestation of unity, grounded in his belief that the source of all life lies in love. He saw technology as a tool to enhance the human experience and to cultivate meaningful connections. In stark contrast, Malone’s utopia was a dark reflection of unchecked power, greed, and control. He sought to “play God,” manipulating and enslaving individuals within the confines of his simulation. Trevor’s journey then shifts toward finding spiritual enlightenment, moving beyond the mere physical creation of worlds and seeking balance within the fabric of existence itself.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
The Glitch delves into deep themes of spirituality, technology, and the perpetual search for enlightenment. It underscores the fundamental interconnectedness of all life and highlights how love—an unshakable force—has the ability to shape destinies, transcending both time and space. The story reminds us that love is not just a pursuit but the very essence of wholeness, possessing the ability to heal and transform both individuals and entire worlds.
In this story, reality and simulation extend beyond mere technical constructs; they become a canvas for examining life, death, friendship, and the lasting influence of love. This novel ultimately stands as a testament to the boundless human capacity for exploration and growth, even when confronted with extraordinary technological feats and metaphysical mysteries.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
I am currently finishing the manuscript for my second novel, Watchers: The Angel Eyes, which is the first book in a trilogy. I plan to release it in early 2025. It’s a sci-fi adventure suitable for all ages, and I like to describe it as ‘Harry Potter in space.’
“In The Angel Eyes, Osiris and Natasha discover they are Earth’s last hope as they unravel the secrets of celestial fragments and face cosmic foes. With newfound powers, they must protect humanity from ancient evils, but their journey through time and space reveals a truth that could change everything.”
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Trevor’s serendipitous encounter with a cryptic old man, who possesses the ability to read the very essence of life in Trevor’s palm, marks the beginning of his extraordinary odyssey. Under the old man’s guidance, Trevor delves into a world of profound metaphysical possibilities, where he learns to traverse portals and manipulate reality as a glitch in the grand system of existence. This mentorship ignites Trevor’s curiosity and provides him with the tools to traverse different times and dimensions.
The narrative takes an intriguing turn when Trevor’s unique talents draw the attention of Sam Malone, a wealthy entrepreneur and scientist. Malone envisions a utopian world of his own, distinct from Trevor’s ideals, and seeks Trevor’s design expertise to bring this vision to life. In a pivotal decision, Trevor leaves his career as a video game designer and collaborates with Malone to build Utopia Zed, a state-of-the-art virtual realm.
But soon enough, the clash of ideals between Trevor and Sam Malone stands as a stark juxtaposition of two divergent world views. Trevor’s vision for Utopia Zed is rooted in compassion, love, and the liberation of human minds from the confines of their perceptions. His utopia is a manifestation of unity, driven by the belief that the source of all life lies in love, be it in the form of familial bonds, friendship, or the collective unity of humanity. For Trevor, technology should serve as a means to enhance the human experience and foster genuine connections among people.
In contrast, Malone’s vision for Utopia Zed is a chilling reflection of unchecked power, greed, and control. He aspires to “play God,” manipulating and enslaving individuals within the confines of his simulation. In this dystopian world, the pursuit of pleasures and the constant stimulation of dopamine receptors are prioritized above all else. Malone’s vision disregards the circumstances of those ensnared within his virtual realm, fueling a form of technological eugenics. The consequences of his actions are inconsequential to him, as he seeks to amass power and maintain dominance at any cost. The clash between Trevor’s altruistic values and Malone’s ruthless pursuit of control creates a powerful narrative tension that drives the heart of “The Glitch.”
Trevor, our protagonist, then embarks on a quest to find spiritual enlightenment. Leaving behind his life on Earth, he ventures to Tibet, where he undergoes a profound spiritual retreat. Guided by the same old man, Trevor combines technology with spirituality, diving deep into a new VR world to expand his consciousness. The goal is to liberate humanity from mental slavery and guide them toward spiritual awakening.
In this sweeping tale, “The Glitch” explores profound themes of spirituality, technology, and the eternal quest for enlightenment. It emphasizes the interconnectedness of all beings and the enduring power of love to shape destinies, even across the vastness of time and space. It serves as a reminder that the pursuit of the whole is called love, and that, ultimately, love has the power to heal and transform both individuals and worlds.
Thus, reality and simulation are not just technical concepts; but a canvas for exploring profound themes of life, death, friendship, and the enduring power of love. The story serves as a testament to the limitless human capacity for curiosity and growth, even in the face of technological marvels and metaphysical mysteries.
In the Lair of Legends
David Buzan’s In the Lair of Legends sends readers on a riveting journey that cascades from action to the shuddering trembles of mythological horror. From the first chapter, the narrative captures your attention, propelling you through a story that refuses to relent in its thrilling pace.
Lieutenant Jolon Winterhawk, our steadfast protagonist, pledges allegiance to the United States cavalry with an unwavering motive to shield his family from looming perils. Embarking on a seemingly straightforward mission – to safely shepherd a train of gold ore across Oregon – Winterhawk finds himself ensnared in a harrowing battle against a mosaic of adversaries, spanning from Mexican ambushers and US aeronauts to terrifying beings from legends.
Despite a backdrop teeming with explosive action and supernatural terror, Buzan masterfully carves moments for expositional clarity. These well-tailored bursts of information provide not merely an understanding but an immersive experience, ensuring readers are fully conscripted into the unfolding drama.
The novel introduces a sophisticated narrative technique that simultaneously offers a momentary respite from the relentless action and sets the stage for an emotional crescendo. Employing a slightly comedic, italicized voice, Buzan guides the audience through tumultuous events, culminating in a twist that is as heart-wrenching as it is unforeseen.
Winterhawk, a man sculpted from simplicity and cast into the roaring fires of adversity, emerges as a compelling embodiment of the action-hero archetype. While his initial characterization might feel familiar, Winterhawk’s interactions and evolving circumstances progressively reveal a complex tapestry of personality that is difficult to resist. Buzan expertly navigates the path of showing, not telling, allowing Winterhawk’s inherent resourcefulness, unexpected wisdom, and indomitable spirit to naturally unfurl before the reader.
The insertion of legends within the narrative does not merely amplify the stakes but injects a palpable aura of horror, resonating with an almost cosmic dread. Buzan, in a fascinating deviation, affords readers a visceral glimpse into the fear and gruesome demises experienced by the legends’ unfortunate victims. These terrifying beings, while exuding an aura of monstrous invincibility, are presented in a manner that teeters on the brink of the believable, ensuring Winterhawk’s heroics linger within the realm of the improbable, safeguarding our suspended disbelief.
In the Lair of Legends combines action, horror, and emotionally charged storytelling into a cohesive narrative that promises to entertain and trap readers in a world where every page whispers of danger, desperation, and the undying embers of hope. Buzan has woven a tale that, while harrowing, invites readers to linger, to experience, and to relentlessly journey alongside Lieutenant Winterhawk through the abyss of legends.
Pages: 276 | ASIN : B0C8BMMRV3
LITERARY TITAN 