Blog Archives
Taj’s Sabbatical-Book One, Sol System Enforcer Chronicles
Taj’s Sabbatical takes readers on a high-octane journey through the Sol System, blending futuristic sci-fi elements with themes of loyalty, family, and the burdens of duty. At its core, the story follows Taj Varna, an elite Enforcer on a reluctant sabbatical, whose life takes a dramatic turn when he becomes the target of multiple assassination attempts. The plot thickens with a web of intrigue, including advanced cloning, political machinations, and deeply personal stakes as Taj’s loved ones are drawn into the crossfire.
The authors paint a vivid picture of a futuristic society where technology shapes not only transportation and warfare but also the very fabric of identity. The creative detailing of synthetic companions, like Sammy, adds a layer of realism, while the darker aspects, such as unregistered clones and private ARKs, hint at the ethical dilemmas of this advanced society. These elements ground the story, making its speculative fiction feel eerily plausible. At times, the prose is crisp and engaging, pulling you into Taj’s adrenaline-filled world. The narrative occasionally veers into over-explanation. Sammy’s frequent infodumps about cloning or tech systems, while fascinating, can disrupt the pacing. Balancing technical exposition with plot momentum would elevate the storytelling.
The relationships in the book are a delightful counterpoint to its action-heavy narrative. Taj’s bond with Sammy, his synthetic companion, is both humorous and heartfelt. Their banter—like Taj teasing Sammy about his sense of humor—brings levity and warmth. Likewise, the backstory of Taj and Taddy’s romance, orchestrated by the matchmaking Queen Madelaine II, adds emotional depth. That said, I wanted more insight into Taj’s internal conflict as he grapples with protecting his loved ones while facing threats from every corner of the Sol System. The book’s climax left me eager for more, especially with the revelations about Fencer, Taj’s enigmatic father, whose unembodied consciousness still manipulates events. The layers of mystery and power struggles introduced here promise exciting developments for future installments.
Taj’s Sabbatical is a thrilling read that combines speculative science fiction with personal drama. Fans of fast-paced action, intricate world-building, and morally complex characters will find much to enjoy. It’s perfect for readers who love blending futuristic settings with tales of loyalty and rebellion. For those who relish a blend of humor, tech-savvy adventure, and emotional stakes, this book is a solid pick. I’m looking forward to seeing where the Sol System Enforcer Chronicles takes us next.
Pages: 282 | ASIN : B0CPNYYDMT
Fragmentation Vol II: In Search Of
Fragmentation Vol II: In Search Of dives headfirst into a turbulent storm of self-reflection, psychological tension, and a persistent search for meaning. Author John Randall’s sequel picks up the scattered pieces of its predecessor, threading them into a narrative that explores guilt, redemption, and the chaos of the human mind. From the gritty streets of Austin to surreal encounters in foam clubs, the protagonist’s journey is an odyssey of raw emotion and existential questioning.
One standout moment for me was his interaction with Honzo, a fellow lost soul. Honzo’s monologue about his strained relationship with his father was raw and heartbreaking. It’s in these quieter, introspective moments that the book truly shines. However, the rapid tonal shifts between gritty realism and surreal elements sometimes felt jarring to me.
Randall’s use of symbolism is another highlight. The titular “fragmentation” manifests not only in the protagonist’s fractured mental state but also in the fragmented storytelling style. Disjointed timelines and erratic chapter transitions echo Rodrigo’s turmoil. While some might find this challenging to follow, I found it an effective way to mirror the character’s psyche. The recurring appearances of eerie figures, such as the veiled woman in the foam club, lend an almost dreamlike quality that keeps the reader guessing. Is it reality, hallucination, or something else entirely?
Fragmentation Vol II: In Search Of is an ambitious and gritty exploration of a fractured soul. It’s intense, chaotic, and at times overwhelming, much like its protagonist. But for those who enjoy psychological thrillers with a side of the surreal, this book delivers. It’s a great fit for readers who like their stories dark and introspective, akin to works by Dostoevsky or Palahniuk. If you’re willing to embrace the chaos and let the story pull you into its fragmented depths, it’s a journey worth taking.
Pages: 424 | ASIN : B0CW37WRRR
The Destiny Ring
The Destiny Ring by Paul Bird is a thrilling blend of contemporary family life, Australian Indigenous culture, and science fiction intrigue. It follows Jacinta Bowen, a teenager who stumbles upon a mysterious ring at a local market, only to discover it is a powerful artifact linked to a secret organization known as STEALTH. Her journey takes her through time and across continents, revealing truths about her family and herself. The story interweaves coming-of-age themes with a gripping plot about time travel and ancient lore.
Paul Bird’s writing is evocative and rooted in place and culture. The opening chapter, where Jacinta dreams of ancient Aboriginal gatherings, sets the tone beautifully. Bird paints the Australian bush in vivid colors, evoking sights, smells, and sounds that transport the reader straight to the granite monoliths and eucalyptus forests. The scene where Jacinta witnesses the Bundjalung, Jukambal, and Gamilaroi peoples trading and storytelling feels like stepping into a living history book, showcasing Bird’s respect for and knowledge of Indigenous traditions.
I found Jacinta’s interactions with her best friend, Cecelia, and her teacher, Mrs. Tindall, to be genuine and heartfelt. One of my favorite scenes is when Jacinta stands up to a school bully, blending her jujitsu training with raw courage. This moment encapsulates her spirit and determination, qualities that make her a compelling protagonist.
What really stood out was the transition from the ordinary to the extraordinary. When the ring is activated by lightning and propels Jacinta into the Viking age, the story shifts gears dramatically. Bird’s descriptions of the storm, the flash of lightning, and the surreal sensation of time travel are electrifying. However, it is the aftermath—the revelations about STEALTH and the syndicate—that cement this as a riveting sci-fi adventure. The detailed discussions about time travel technology and its ethical implications added depth, although I sometimes wished for less exposition and more action.
The Destiny Ring is a page-turner that will appeal to readers who enjoy a mix of contemporary realism, cultural heritage, and speculative fiction. Fans of time travel stories like A Wrinkle in Time or The Time Traveler’s Wife will find themselves hooked, as will those who appreciate strong, relatable heroines. Paul Bird has crafted a story that is as much about family and identity as it is about saving the world, and it left me eagerly awaiting a sequel.
Omega III – The Head of the Snake
In Omega III: The Head of the Snake, David J. Story plunges readers into a high-stakes world of international intrigue, where a team of operatives tackles human trafficking while grappling with their personal struggles. The plot revolves around a mission to dismantle a trafficking ring, weaving together action-packed rescue operations, emotional character arcs, and a tragic loss that tests the team’s resilience. It’s a gritty, fast-paced story that doesn’t shy away from harsh realities.
One thing I admired about this book was its raw emotional core. The scenes involving Shay, particularly her fearless takedown of an abusive man in an alley, were nothing short of gripping. Shay’s tenacity and wit shine through when she quips, “If I ever hear that you’ve touched another woman again, I’ll hunt you down and finish what I’ve started.” Moments like these exemplify the book’s commitment to showing strong, multi-dimensional characters. While Shay’s depth is compelling, some secondary characters could have been explored further, as their arcs occasionally felt overshadowed by the larger narrative.
The pacing is another standout aspect. From a suspenseful road trip to a dramatic rescue mission, the book never lets up. A particular highlight was the sequence where Hunter’s abduction is revealed via a hidden camera—a scene brimming with tension and a clever use of tech.
The writing stands out for its engaging dialogue and vivid descriptions, which bring the characters and their world to life. Story’s dialogue adds authenticity and depth to each character, while scenes like the alleyway fight are so vividly portrayed that they linger in your mind. The book’s unflinching exploration of dark themes like trafficking and abuse adds a powerful layer of realism, making the story impactful and thought-provoking.
Omega III: The Head of the Snake is an intense, emotional ride. It’s a story of perseverance, justice, and humanity amidst chaos. I would recommend it to fans of action-packed thrillers and those who appreciate narratives that tackle tough subjects head-on. Just be prepared for a gritty read that doesn’t pull its punches.
Pages: 265 | ASIN : B0DP46D88G
You Don’t Know What You Have Till it is Lost
Unearthing Worlds follows a colonel and his team struggling to survive after an asteroid collision leaves them stranded in unfamiliar surroundings. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The setup was inspired by my desire to explore the dynamic between the brothers, Allen and Brice, on a deeper level. In order to fully develop their reconciliation, they needed to be separated again. Until something is lost, you often don’t realize what you truly have. In book one, the brothers come back together and start to rebuild their relationship, but their reconciliation isn’t complete. I wanted to put them in situations where each faced their own unique challenges while feeling the absence of the other. This gave me the opportunity to close that part of their character arcs in a meaningful way.
How long did it take you to imagine, draft, and write the world your characters live in?
Many months. As a hard science fiction writer, I put a tremendous amount of thought and research into any world I create. My worlds are all grounded in known science, which makes the process both time-consuming and rewarding.
What was your favorite character to write, and why? Was there a scene you felt captured the character’s essence?
Marcus is my favorite character to write because he’s like an onion—there’s always more to uncover with him. One scene that really captures his essence is the dinner scene with him, Brice, and the others. It’s a moment where his layers show brightly, revealing his complexities in subtle but powerful ways.
Where will the final book in this trilogy take readers?
We’ll be revisiting the Roman Sol Empire. Readers can expect a return to this richly imagined world, along with new challenges and revelations.
Author Links: GoodReads | BlueSky | Website | Book Review
After vanishing during a high-risk mission on an uncharted world, Colonel Brice Messman and his team must find their way back through the keyholes—mysterious portals capable of bridging dimensions. Meanwhile, Dr. Allen Messman relentlessly searches for his brother, knowing that every delay could leave Brice’s team stranded in the unknown forever.
Each keyhole opens to an unpredictable world, where dangers hide in strange landscapes and new threats lie in wait. With allies growing uncertain and time running out, Brice must rely on hard-won instincts and the fragile trust of his crew. Every step forward risks disaster—one wrong move could leave them trapped on the wrong side of reality, with no way back.
Stories Rich in Culture and Values
Twinchantment Tales follows siblings living in a quaint village on magical adventures, each wrapped in all the charm of a folktale. What was the inspiration for this collection of stories?
The inspiration for Twinchantment Tales stems from the vivid storytelling of my childhood, where my grandparents would weave magical narratives around our traditions and folklore. Those enchanting evenings nurtured my imagination and instilled a deep love for stories rich in culture and values. The twin characters reflect facets of my own personality—two sides of the same coin, embodying curiosity, courage, and wonder. Through these siblings’ adventures, I wanted to recreate that nostalgic charm, blending Tamil Nadu’s vibrant heritage with mystical fantasy, and offer readers the same joy and connection I felt as a child listening to my grandparents’ tales.
Do you have a favorite story in this collection? One that you especially enjoyed crafting?
My favorite story from Twinchantment Tales is The Magic of Erode’s Turmeric. Crafting it was a deeply fulfilling experience because it intertwines nature’s extraordinary qualities with the profound power of intention and gratitude. This tale teaches us that true magic lies in the reverence we hold for the simple wonders around us. Arvind’s journey in uncovering the healing essence of his turmeric fields mirrors a universal truth—that mindful interactions with nature and each other unlock infinite beauty and potential. This story resonates deeply with me, reminding us to honor the gifts of the earth with care, gratitude, and purpose.
What was the inspiration for Annapurani and Bhuminathan’s traits and dialogue?
The inspiration for Annapurani and Bhuminathan’s traits and dialogue stems from my personal experiences and deep connection to Tamil Nadu’s rich cultural heritage. Having visited the district where the story is set, I felt a profound sense of belonging and familiarity. The values and wisdom imparted by my own family, along with the traditions of Tamil Nadu, shaped their personalities. Annapurani’s nurturing nature and Bhuminathan’s grounded wisdom reflect the warmth, respect, and closeness that define our culture. Their dialogue was inspired by the storytelling traditions passed down through generations, celebrating the beauty of simple, meaningful connections.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
I am currently working on multiple exciting projects. My next focus is on a fiction novel, which I’m deeply invested in. Along with this, the translation of Twinchantment Tales will be released in Japanese, Thai, and Korean, with the Tamil translation being done by me. Additionally, there’s an upcoming anthology I’m contributing to, alongside famous authors, and I’m working on a separate memoir project. I also plan to curate 50 stories from my book 200 Zen Stories for a special project. While the timeline for these varies, I’m excited to share them with readers as they unfold! All of these works will inspire positivity and resonate positively around the world.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Instagram | YouTube
Guided by Love: Annapurani and Bhuminathan share a month of magic and warmth with their grandparents, Vaidyanathan and Meenakshi.
Timeless Tales: Each night, stories of Tamil Nadu’s rich heritage unfold, bridging past and present.
A Journey of Discovery: The twins reconnect with their roots, gaining insight into kindness, courage, and tradition.
Magic & Life Lessons: Experience nostalgia and joy in a tale that celebrates family, culture, and lasting values.
Let Mithilapuram’s legacy awaken a deep appreciation for the timeless beauty of Tamil Nadu.
Ashes of the City
Ashes of the City by Quinton Taylor-Garcia delivers a gripping tale set in the aftermath of an earthquake that leaves a group of high school students stranded in a shattered urban landscape. Maya, a compassionate leader, strives to bring unity, while Jace, a ruthless pragmatist, champions strength as the key to survival. Their opposing ideologies fracture the group, igniting tension over scarce resources. As aftershocks loom and destruction mounts, both leaders grapple with harrowing choices and the weight of their decisions.
This novel is a riveting work of modern dystopian fiction. From the opening sentence, the author’s evocative prose commands attention. Vivid descriptions transform the ruined city into a visceral, almost living presence. Each crumbling building and each tremor in the earth feels real, immersing the reader in a world teetering on the edge of collapse. The story doesn’t just depict survival; it mirrors the fragility of the modern world, asking readers to confront unsettling truths about humanity and resilience.
The characters shine as the heart of this story. Maya and Jace, polar opposites, embody two sides of survival in crisis. Maya’s warmth and hope resonate deeply, offering a vision of collective strength, while Jace’s unflinching pragmatism challenges notions of morality when survival is at stake. Their clash is riveting, not only as a battle for leadership but as a commentary on what it means to remain human amidst chaos. The raw authenticity of their internal struggles makes them relatable, their humanity laid bare in every decision, every moment of doubt.
Themes of leadership, morality, and sacrifice pulse through the pages, creating a story that is as thought-provoking as it is thrilling. The story moves with relentless energy, but it also takes moments to reflect, adding depth and nuance to the chaos. The contrast between destruction and the characters’ determination to survive is both haunting and inspiring.
Ashes of the City is an exploration of resilience, a challenge to consider how far we’ll go to endure, and a testament to the enduring power of hope. It’s a must-read for anyone drawn to dystopian stories.
Pages: 320 | ASIN : B0DK4397YD
A Sci-Fi Retelling
Pilgrims is a riveting near-future dystopian epic where humanity faces moral decay, societal collapse, and alien annihilation, forcing desperate characters to grapple with their darkest choices. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I’ve never felt satisfied with first-contact sci-fi stories where aliens show up at Earth and we learn we’re not alone. That’s because the reasons the aliens come to Earth don’t usually stand up to scrutiny. For example, the aliens in Independence Day come to Earth because they want our “resources” despite the fact that if you can travel across interstellar space you will encounter all the resources you could ever want on lifeless rocks that don’t have pesky Earthlings defending them. The same goes for The Three Body Problem. Incredible novel, but the Trisolarans have such amazing technology that they don’t really need Earth for their species to survive. The motives are usually weak.
So I wanted to create a first-contact sci-fi story where the aliens’ reason for coming to Earth stands up to scrutiny. And, as outlandish as it sounds, aliens that are devout believers of an Earth religion (in my novel – Catholicism) have a very compelling reason to travel all the way to Earth. It’s such a good motivation in fact, that I was shocked to see no other writer had ever addressed it. And so, I took it upon myself to do so.
Austin DeSantis is an intriguing and well-developed character. What were some driving ideals behind your character’s development?
Pilgrims is a sci-fi retelling of Saint Augustine’s Confessions which was published sometime around 400AD. Now that’s an old book, and yet we still study it because it paints such a brilliant portrait of a troubled man finding his redemption. That’s something we can understand across the ages.
So I kept Saint Augustine as a vision when crafting my protagonist – Austin DeSantis. He is struggling at the beginning of the novel but, through the various trials he encounters, he grows, albeit in an enormously painful way.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
Forgiveness – why we need it and why it is so hard. That is the core theme. But the book also explores why it can be so difficult for us to change our minds sometimes because of the things that are unknown even to ourselves that hold us back.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
Austin’s story is not over. The book concludes about fifty days after aliens arrive on Earth and proclaim to be Catholic. What happens to society ten years after such a momentous event? Fifty years? There is still so much story to tell. And I expect the sequels will be coming out over the next few years.
Author Links: GoodReads | X (Twitter) | Facebook | Website | Amazon
Out-of-work Latin teacher and borderline alcoholic Austin DeSantis is determined to spend his final days in the arms of a prostitute-that is if the aliens don’t exterminate humanity first.
But when the aliens land at the Vatican, begin speaking Latin, and reveal themselves to be Catholic, the world turns upside down.
Pressed into service as a translator and thrust into the center of humanity’s first contact with a cryptic alien race, Austin must uncover their true intentions before religious turmoil rips the planet apart. But with Austin caught between the Catholic Church, the US military, and an enigmatic alien AI, he’ll have to decide where his loyalties lie as the fate of humanity hangs in the balance.
PILGRIMS is a sci-fi retelling of Augustine’s Confessions, mixing a high-concept premise à la Children of Time with the ceaseless pacing and rich characterization of Red Rising.
LITERARY TITAN 