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The Laws Of Time
Andrew Pulliam’s The Laws of Time navigates the intricate and often precarious domain of science fiction, particularly focusing on the complex theme of time travel. Pulliam’s protagonist, Aaron, unintentionally alters the course of history with his time machine, leading to a series of tumultuous events. Despite his commitment to not rewriting history, his invention falls into the hands of the Outfit, a criminal syndicate. The Outfit’s manipulation of the past to ensure an Axis victory in WWII marks the beginning of their quest for absolute power.
Time travel as a concept inherently presents a narrative challenge, often grappling with intricate and thought-provoking questions. The Laws of Time embraces these complexities, presenting a narrative rich in speculative intrigue. Aaron, as the central character, is portrayed with a blend of sympathy and fallibility. His initial well-intentioned experiments with the time machine predictably spiral out of control, setting the stage for a story of redemption and rectification. Pulliam skillfully captures Aaron’s internal conflict and moral dilemma, adding depth to the narrative. The novel also excels in its detailed period settings, enriching the reader’s experience. The portrayal of the Outfit adds a bold contrast to the story’s conflict, providing a vivid counterpoint to the more subtle and nuanced elements of the plot.
The Laws of Time remains an engaging read, offering a blend of adventure and speculative thought that maintains its pace and interest throughout. This book is a commendable addition to the science fiction genre, especially for readers intrigued by the complexities of time travel narratives.
Pages: 326 | ISBN : 1642981311
Death of heaven
Eldritch Horror is a narrative style that is defined by the names of those who create works within its genre: H. P. Lovecraft, Clive Barker, and now, JZ Murdock. To speak of the overarching plot of Death of heaven is to speak of madness, depravity, and incomprehensible horror of both mortal men and unimaginable beings, for both the characters in the world, and for the reader of the book.
Death of heaven captures the essence of what makes Eldritch Horror spectacular–entities that are difficult for the mind to fathom are front and center within the narrative. True to the form of the genre, their interactions with the mortals of planet Earth are always interesting and usually end quite poorly for the mortals who receive their attention. JZ Murdock does an exceptional job with his narrative crafting, and the main protagonists of Jimmy and James provide an understandable vessel through which to view the narrative events as they unfold. They are, as characters, perfectly imperfect, each shaped by their experiences both with the incomprehensibility of life and the even greater incomprehensibility of the beings that have now taken note of them. To read this story is to gaze into the abyss, which is one of its greatest strengths.
With that being said, however, it is important to note that this book is, by all merits, predominantly an all-consuming abyss and, by its nature, is often devoid of anything vaguely resembling happiness, hope, or basic decency. JZ Murdock’s world is established as a world in which the conceptualization of God or gods is a radical misunderstanding of the true structure of the world, and the moral fashioning of those who live within this world reflects that quite well. This book plays freely and loosely with morality, divinity, and concepts that are generally felt to be too dark to be included in any form of media, making it entirely unsuitable for any who are not committed to Eldritch Horror as a genre: if Hellraiser was too much for you as a film, leave Death of heaven on the library shelf and choose another tome. The words of Dante match this work quite well: “All hope abandon ye who enter in.”
The story expands and balloons dramatically, and I felt that it is often difficult to understand what is a core event of the plot, and what is simply window dressing to make the experience “darker” or “more macabre.” This leads it in places to leave the confines of Eldritch Horror and take on the feeling of the film Knowing starring Nicholas Cage. The core plot, I feel, takes readers on a headfirst spiral toward the end of all things, but there is an overarching sense of curiosity as to what is truly important for that end.
Death of heaven earns its place in the Eldritch Horror pantheon (an ironic turn of phrase, considering), and while its tone and construction may eliminate many who would read it, those who can find enjoyment within the dark and twisted works of Lovecraft and Barker will undoubtedly find joy in the words of Murdock.
Pages: 444 | ASIN : B007ZVSNV0
The Meaning For Life
Eleven Arrows follows an archaeologist in 1850 AD who discovers an ancient manuscript that could change what the world knows about history. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The ancient manuscript idea came later. I have always been fascinated by ancient history and the origin of our world, but the inspiration for this story was more to do with writing an adventure story. In my first trip overseas, as I’m sure many can relate, I experienced an awakening to new experiences and cultures. This awakening brought back my early desire to be an author. The story I started writing was about a boy who grew up in an ancient village of guides. I liked the idea of this happening at a time when you could load what you belonged on a horse or camel and venture into the unknown to find your place in the world. The antagonists for the story were immediately obvious—anyone or thing that would prevent peaceful travel or new settlement. The antagonism needs to grow in a good story and I chose an antagonist in the form of one who stopped people from living wherever they liked, a ruler. I did not know who this ruler was or the exact setting when I started writing. Before I began my research, I created my protagonist, a boy who wanted to discover the world and learn everything. The inclusion of the Archaeologist, Fred Baker, came after I had realised I was not writing a simple story. I had set my story in the ancient past and research was required. The real setup came in the research phase. People didn’t write stories back then, or did they? I wanted to know of the oldest story ever written.
What kind of research did you do for this novel to ensure you captured the essence of the story’s theme?
I knew I had a journey of research ahead of me before I continued my protagonist’s journey. When I returned to Australia, I was distracted from my tertiary studies by the story I had started. I shared the idea for my story with my cousins and a girlfriend of a cousin, they are now married, was interested. She was also studying and worked part time at the Museum. Her assistance was invaluable in my research phase. We spent several days at the University of Queensland library. Margaret (acknowledged in all my books) would search the shelves and bring texts to my desk. Through this process, the Akkadian period, the world’s first empire, was identified as an ideal setting. What also grabbed my attention was repeated mention of a tree of life. This initial research allowed me an entry to the greater story. Ongoing research continued for the next decade. With the advent of the Internet, research became easier. One of my most common searches was etymology. I also researched religious stories and their origins.
The themes I was exploring became clearer to me through a cyclical journey of write, read, research and write again. I enjoyed the process. I’m not one to rush what I care about. The great Library of Alexandria grabbed my attention. Stories from all over the world were recorded there and the demise of the library is still debatable. My character, Fred Baker, was introduced as a means to authenticate the narrative. With his introduction, I was able to label the time and set the scene. Fred, disliked by some readers, has a journey of his own to complete. 1850, an age of discovery and a time when bandages from mummified people was exported as kindle is not to be ignored.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
The most important theme to me was meaning, the meaning for life. It is still my first question, often phrased as why? Familial bonds, friendship, truth, duty, destiny, death and change all play a role. In high school I was fascinated by the introduction to the Sumerians and the Egyptians and then it quickly moved to the Romans and Greeks. I understand why education does not dwell on early civilizations. We don’t know enough. The Akkadians were the world’s first Empire and I‘m glad Margaret told me to publish. So many don’t know about this period of history. I might not have either if I didn’t dive into the rabbit hole. And it’s a free dive. My editors might have questioned some content but only in relation to historical accuracy and grammar. More detail has been added in revisions before publication. Would the same story have been told if it went through a publishing house? Enjoy. The ultimate question is answered.
Is this the first book in the series? If so, when is the next book coming out, and what can your fans expect in the next story?
Eleven Arrows is the first book in the trilogy. Enter the Bull’s Burrow was released in 2021. End of Morrow has been released recently. Readers can expect visceral settings and real characters from an ancient past. Book 1 establishes Kar and his journey as a Guardian. Book 2 sees Guardians head west and Kar make life-changing decisions. Book 3 has Kar and the Guardians face the greatest test.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website
2300 BC. The Akkadians have blazed a trail of death and destruction through the Sumerian city-states as they carve out the first empire the world has ever seen. Barbarian raids and bandit attacks plague the outskirts of the burgeoning empire. From the chaos, a tribe emerges and establishes their reputation as Guardians — protectors of innocent traders. When an Akkadian army crosses the mighty Zagros Mountains, to forge a stronghold in the East, only the Guardians stand in their way.
Millennia later, in 1850 AD, English archaeologist, Fred Baker, becomes embroiled in this ancient past when he learns of a manuscript that survived the fall of the Great Library of Alexandria. His authentication of the text could challenge written history but he must also tread carefully or risk losing more than his reputation.
Eleven Arrows (Guardians of the East, Book1)
In J.P. Manning’s novel Eleven Arrows, we journey between two distinct yet intricately intertwined epochs: the flourishing Akkadian empire of 2300 BC and the adventures of English archaeologist Fred Baker in 1850 AD. Manning crafts a multi-layered narrative rich in detail, plunging readers into a meticulously rendered universe.
While the initial chapters set in 1850 AD may seem somewhat extended, they deftly lay the groundwork for an enthralling dive into history. Through the eyes of young Kar, we become intimate spectators to the saga’s unfolding events.
Eleven Arrows truly excels in its vivid portrayal of characters, settings, and emotions, forging a deep bond between the reader and the narrative. Manning’s storytelling seamlessly marries simplicity with depth, a testament to his prowess with prose. Central to the tale are themes of kinship, camaraderie, and the embrace of transformation, elements that deeply resonate on a human scale. As the story ends, we are left poised on the precipice of what promises to be a riveting series, hungering for the next book to come.
While Eleven Arrows is very entertaining, with its robust storyline, evocative characters, and gripping themes, I think the pacing of the early Victorian era chapters are absorbing but could benefit from more conciseness.
Eleven Arrows is a remarkable introduction from J.P. Manning, and an absolute must-read for fans of historical fiction. Its universal themes centered on familial bonds and the essence of embracing evolution make it an unputdownable literary treat.
Pages: 252 | ASIN : B09K4SJ7V6
An Unlikely Hero
Rogues of the Crosslands: Azoria’s Blade follows an eleven girl who is the sole survivor of an attack on her village and vows to hunt down those that caused this destruction. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
Azoria was created as a character for a tabletop role-playing game with my friends. When COVID hit, we quit playing in person, which inspired me to begin writing in lieu of gaming. As her character evolved, however, her meaning became deeper. She’s a child who was raised by an overprotective dad, deep in the safety of the wildwoods. She’s repeatedly told ‘don’t go past the creek’, which kind of becomes a continuous theme in Azoria’s Blade. Then, she’s unexpectedly exposed to the violence of the outside world she was being protected from. It reminds me of the children (and adults) who were enclosed from the world during COVID, but none of us escaped unscathed. Children missed school and social interactions; while adults became generally more angry and entrenched in their ideologies. We all returned to a different world. I feel like no matter how much we protect our little ones, the inevitable violence of real life is waiting for them in some manner.
Azoria Dash was just a child when her village is attacked by Orcs; she has to grow up fast and find a way to not let her hate destroy her. What were some driving ideals behind your character’s development?
One of my favorite fantasy movies is Conan the Barbarian. It’s a great story of revenge and redemption. In that movie, you meet Conan (played by Arnold Schwarzenegger); who is so physically imposing, there’s no doubt he’ll become victorious. In my story, I wanted to create a character that was the opposite, almost to the point of laughter. In fact, she fits as the least capable person anyone would depend on as a heroic protagonist. She’s a young girl who’s unsure of herself, short-tempered, short in stature, scrawny, and immature. Azoria also fails a lot due to her lack of good decision-making. Her failures create a more endearing, relatable, and believable heroine to root for.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
The title itself, Azoria’s Blade sounds like it’s all about Azoria. However, it’s the character building around her that truly enriches the story’s depth. The supporting cast is chock-full of individual motivation and trauma. I sprinkle many problems throughout the adventure that I believe most readers can relate to. There’s teamwork, family, loss, loneliness, personal growth, racism, PTSD, addiction, and mommy and daddy issues. Besides the primary storyline, there are several other mini-victories to cheer for along the way.
When will book 2 be available? Can you give us an idea of where that book will take readers?
I can’t wait to release Reign of the Sorceress Queen, which should be in early 2024. There’s a ton of new discoveries, twists, and turns that’ll truly immerse fans of Azoria’s Blade. I’ll provide more details to the follow-up soon, but I’ll just caution readers to buckle up.
With respect to Azoria’s Blade, we have so much to share! I’m not just releasing a book, I’m creating an interactive experience. First, the Kindle version of Azoria’s Blade will be available September 18, 2023 and the hard prints will be released the same week. I’ve also created an art companion guide which is full of the beautiful character renderings that we’re sharing with fans weekly on instagram and facebook. I’m also creating character trading cards with stats for collectors, book fans and roleplaying enthusiasts alike.
Author Links: GoodReads | Instagram | Facebook | Youtube
The journey begins when Azoria discovers the mythical Klarion Blade. She learns that her ancestrial blood activates the blade’s true potential. New friendships are forged, and enemies abound. With the blade and an oath, Azoria vows to destroy the evil that plagues the Crosslands.
Rogues of the Crosslands: Azoria’s Blade
Azoria, a plucky elven child, finds her ordinary life abruptly upended when her tranquil village falls victim to a brutal attack by an onslaught of ferocious Orcs. Enraged and hungry for vengeance, Azoria embarks on an intrepid journey, leaving her devastated village smoldering in the wake. This narrative is as much a tale of self-discovery as it is of retribution, with Azoria unveiling hitherto unknown aspects about herself and her lineage and forging fresh alliances.
Central to her character development is her encounter with the Klarion Blade, a pivotal artifact that becomes instrumental in her transformation. Azoria, now armed with newfound skills, substantial training, and her personal militia, feels prepared to face her orcish adversaries. Will she be successful in her quest for vengeance? Azoria’s character is delicately balanced, portraying her as an endearing and compassionate child, yet underlined with an undertow of rage – a complex characterization that enriches the narrative.
The book offers a compelling concoction of camaraderie, fantasy, and revenge, an exciting blend that will stimulate young minds and enhance their imaginative capabilities. Noteworthy moments include the engaging interactions between Azoria and Razzle. The underlying message imparted by Azoria’s father – “Love is stronger than a sword, but be careful, so is hate,” beautifully encapsulates the affectionate relationship between father and daughter while simultaneously hinting at the darker themes the story explores.
Rogues of the Crosslands: Azoria’s Blade by John Daze offers a gratifying read, brimming with a rich tapestry of characters and plotlines that are sure to engage the reader’s imagination. Teen and young adult readers will be looking for the next installment in this series.
Pages: 192 | ASIN : B0C9LSMT7Y
What If
Crimson Scimitar explores the ‘what if’ questions surrounding Osama bin Laden and how things could have turned out differently. I find the setup of the novel entertaining. How did this idea start and develop as you wrote?
I have always been a fan of authors John Grisham and Scott Turow and their legal thrillers and wondered back in 2010, ‘what if’ Osama bin Laden was captured instead of killed? What would his trial under American jurisprudence look like? In my early draft, the twist, I had him acquitted! Then, I heard on TV bin Laden had been killed. My manuscript was shelved for 10 years, until I rewrote the concept adding new plot lines like: (1) terrorists who are coming into our Southern border and not being caught and (2) bin Laden in court would be a ‘show trial’ and I took that to the extreme. I am now challenging lawyers I visit with: how would you have defended your client, bin Laden? Interesting responses.
Did you find anything in your research of this story that surprised you?
The American public really knows very little about the intertwined politics of the Middle East or even the culture of Moslem family life. And the War on Terrorism since 2000 is not one act but hundreds of incidents that impact on us which we as normal citizens are unaware. Instead of portraying all terrorists as ‘animals’ I sought to take one character to analyze their motivation and reveal how different events might mould and change their jihadist perspective.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
One theme that may be hard to see within the writing are my nuances on how American social media/television culture gives us a numbing view of reality, of the real world versus those who are dedicated to killing us. I use the reality television industry to provide a backdrop in the hunt for bin Laden. But do I paint a positive perspective of our culture or a stilted view? Another theme that I have written into several of my books (like Crimson Scimitar and Lafayette) are the machinations of ‘ambition’ and how it drives and/or perverts a character.
What is one thing that people point out after reading your book that surprises you?
Their reaction on how they must approach the time to devour a lengthy epic novel (600 pages; which is longer than ‘Moby Dick’, but shorter than ‘Game of Thrones’). But like a thriller with multiple stories to tell, I build with chase & capture scenes, then escape & new chase action, and finally, I must tie all story lines into a crescendo of satisfying ends or teasing with new ‘what ifs?. My beta readers and my editor enjoyed the reading. But I leave the satisfaction, or not, to the public, for it is they who must be entertained. (P.S. I believe they will be.) —spg
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website
The ‘What if?’ epic novelWhat if, in 2011, Osama bin Laden, the al Qaeda jihadist terrorist, was captured instead of killed? How would a trial in the U.S. judicial system look like?
And what if the ones who captured him were stars of a reality TV show trying to boost their ratings.
And what if when bin Laden was captured al Qaeda was planning an attack on the United States, worse than 9/11? Who do you think will come to the rescue?
Finally, would you cheer for a young al Qaeda jihadist who might bring peace to the Mideast?
Crimson Scimitar
The tragic events of September 11, 2001, have left an indelible mark on the collective consciousness of Americans and people worldwide, forever shaking the world to its core. This devastating bombing of the World Trade Centers, commonly known as the 9/11 attack, ruthlessly claimed the lives of approximately 3,000 individuals in a heinous act of terrorism. Initially, suspicions swirled around the Taliban, but meticulous investigations later implicated the notorious Islamic extremist group Al Qaeda, led by the infamous Osama Bin Laden.
Within the pages of this gripping novel lies a deep exploration of the harrowing experiences endured by witnesses and survivors of the 9/11 bombing, offering intricate details of the events leading up to the attack and its haunting aftermath. The relentless pursuit of Osama bin Laden, the enigmatic mastermind behind the attack, becomes the focal point, as readers are compelled to ponder over the motivations that drove him and ultimately led to his downfall. The author’s meticulous research delves into Osama’s background, life experiences, and objectives while also shedding light on the subsequent legal proceedings surrounding his indictment.
The emotional toll of losing a loved one is immeasurable, and this book offers a poignant portrayal of the profound trauma experienced by those directly affected by the 9/11 tragedy. Although primarily a work of fiction, it serves as a thought-provoking reflection on the far-reaching consequences of religious extremism. Moreover, it astutely highlights the imperfections inherent in our political and judicial systems.
Through its powerful narrative, Crimson Scimitar becomes a compelling reminder of the urgent need for unity and the futility of war. Within the expansive tapestry of court proceedings and the enthralling stories that encircle Osama bin Laden, the novel weaves together suspense, intrigue, and action elements that befit a thrilling tale. Nevertheless, it is worth noting that the book’s length and intricacies may present challenges for readers. The multitude of characters and their interwoven storylines can be overwhelming, necessitating careful effort to keep track of their names and narratives.
I recommend Crimson Scimitar: Attack on America—2001-2027 to enthusiasts of thrillers, as it offers a captivating and insightful glimpse into the events surrounding the 9/11 attack. Those seeking a deeper understanding of this pivotal moment in history will undoubtedly find this book compelling and engaging.
Pages: 600 | ASIN : B0BMNVMHX9
LITERARY TITAN 