Blog Archives
The Consortium – Genesis
The Consortium Genesis, by B. A. Chapman, is a compelling sci-fi novel that delves into the dark world of a secret society known as the Consortium. This group, composed of brilliant scientists and science enthusiasts, is willing to sacrifice human lives in the pursuit of scientific advancement for the supposed greater good of humanity. As human experimentation became illegal, these individuals formed a clandestine organization, abducting abandoned or lonely individuals and conditioning them into submission. The story follows Amelia, one of the Consortium’s inductees, who endures extreme experiments conducted by her Examiner. A group of law enforcement officials, including two detectives, an FBI agent, Amelia, and her keeper Spike, uncover this hidden world and begin to challenge the Consortium, aiming to liberate those trapped in its sinister system.
Chapman’s writing style is both engaging and impactful. The author skillfully introduces the background stories and the abuses faced by the inductees, capturing the absolute terror experienced by the victims with striking realism. The portrayal of the sickening practices within the Consortium is so vivid and believable that it almost feels like it transcends fiction. The storyline is well-crafted, with believable characters who possess their own faults and quirks. The novel’s pacing is another strength. From the tense moments of Amelia’s rescue to the intricate explanations of The Consortium’s operations, Chapman maintains a steady rhythm that keeps readers on edge. The scenes of interrogation and the detectives’ growing realization of the horrifying truth are particularly well-crafted, blending suspense with a creeping sense of dread.
The inclusion of detailed processes, like the induction of new subjects and the creation of a controlled working class, adds layers of authenticity and horror to the story, making it not just a thriller but a deep dive into a meticulously constructed nightmare. It is important to note that the book contains graphic depictions of violence, abuse, torture, and trauma, and readers should be aware of these potential triggers.
I recommend The Consortium Genesis to those who enjoy medical sci-fi novels involving extreme human experimentation. The book lives up to its subtitle, “A Psychological Horror Thriller and Dystopian Science Fiction Novel,” and offers a gripping and thought-provoking read.
Pages: 300 | ASIN : B0D77DDHNK
Symbiotic Relationship Between Man and Machine
Menticide [The Awakening] follows a programmer who discovers a plot against the oppressed population of her city and sets out to stop the perpetrators with the help of a covert group of digital warriors. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I drew inspiration from classic cyberpunk themes and contemporary societal issues, and wanted to create a richly layered world filled with morally ambiguous characters, pulse-pounding action, and thought-provoking commentary on the perils of unchecked technological and corporate advancement. The story is one of good (ish!) against evil or David versus Goliath, charting the journey of a reluctant hero into a world that she had faithfully promised to keep away from.
Do you have a favorite scene in Menticide? One that was especially enjoyable to envision and bring to life?
I have several, but I’ve selected Cassandra’s pursuit through the Lower District. Having a plot that I had meticulously prepared and crafted was enjoyable to bring to life, however I kept a few scenes less planned, so I could write in more of a pantser style. I found this style of writing suited this scene well and as an author, I could really get under the skin of the protagonist and prise out the tension and adrenaline by writing in this way. It allowed me to almost embody the character and make the horror and chilling narrative feel more believable.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
One of the main themes of the story is about control and subsequent oppression. This has arisen from both poorly checked and monitored corporate and technological advancement, where the latter has permitted a symbiotic relationship between man and machine. Imagine where AI was five years ago to where it is today – then imagine where it will be over 130 years into the future! Technology is progressing at a lightning quick rate and I wanted to write speculative dystopian fiction surrounding the consequential erosion of humanity and quality of life. I enjoyed also exploring the symbiotic tie between the corporation and the cybergangs; a sort of upstairs downstairs relationship that had evolved in this new era. The food chain is such that whilst the corporation sits firmly at the top, it needs prey in order to survive and thrive. Despite being in a high technology era, nature finds its way and consequently, history has a tendency to repeat itself through resistance and the battle to level inequality.
Can you give readers a glimpse inside book 2 of the BINARY series?
Book 2 is entitled Neon Rush and takes place less than 24 hours after the final page of Menticide. The story takes us to a manmade island located just offshore from New Babylon, which is the home of the Neon Rush, a publically broadcasted weaponised and violent race through terrifying stages designed to push drivers to their limits. The story is non-stop, pulse pounding action where the inference of inter-gang conflict and corporate control becomes even more evident. Whereas Menticide (book 1) focuses on Cassandra’s journey, Neon Rush will continue this arc, but also draw in more characters from rival gangs. I wanted to continue to embelish New Babylon’s underworld and enrich the story outside of Paradise and the Neon Reapers, but also to show the extent to which humanity has gone in order to survive. The characters we meet along the way will develop the premise of book 3, which will return to the metropolis. Expect thrills, chills, and a few shed tears.
Author Links: GoodReads | X (Twitter) | Website | Amazon
…where a corporation controls every aspect of civilised life
….but cybergangs rule the underworld
….and their dominion is challenged through weaponised street races
…whilst a digital apocalypse looms.
Cassandra, a young corpo programmer, uncovers a plot of technological menticide targeted at the city’s oppressed population. Armed only with a stolen data drive containing plans and schematics to this nefarious conspiracy, she must escape the clutches of her corrupt and malevolent employer, ZenithCorp.
Run!
If she is to stop the rollout of this technology, her only option is survival. Cassandra must locate an underground resistance group, known as Paradise, a band of digital warriors who operate from the shadows.
Hunted!
Cassandra has a bounty placed on her head and is forced into making critical, life changing decisions… If she can remain alive long enough.
Fight!
Cassandra must be the fuel that ignites Paradise’s spark to emerge from the shadows and help her confront ZenithCorp and the nefarious cybergangs who control the city’s underworld.
Race!
Public information and broadcasting is controlled and locked down by the corporation. Cassandra must enter a violent race called the Neon Rush, a global live streamed event, if she is to expose the corporation’s scheme to the world. To qualify for this gruelling race, she must push herself to the limits of her own humanity, undergoing radical neural upgrades and mods to forge a binary connection with an AI machine, a weaponised battle car and relic from a bygone era, Fury.
Menticide [The Awakening] is the first book in the BINARY dystopian cyberpunk series.
Drawing inspiration from classic cyberpunk themes and contemporary societal issues, Richard M. Evans creates a richly layered world filled with morally ambiguous characters, pulse-pounding action, and thought-provoking commentary on the perils of unchecked technological and corporate advancement.Driven by a passion for storytelling and a fascination with the intersection of humanity and technology, he invites readers on a thrilling journey through the shadows of a dystopian metropolis, where every corner holds secrets waiting to be uncovered and every decision carries weighty consequences.
Whether you’re a seasoned cyberpunk enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, BINARY will captivate, challenge, and leave you questioning the very nature of existence in a world where the line between humanity and machine grows ever thinner. In this electrifying tale of action, intrigue, elaborate plot twists and rebellion, the shadows come to life, and the race for survival takes an adrenaline fuelled kick.
Menticide [The Awakening] is a must read for fans of Ghost in the Shell, Blade Runner, Altered Carbon, Alita Battle Angel, Cyberpunk 2077, Akira, The Matrix, Death Race 2000, Robocop and Total Recall.
Survival and the Will to Live
The Edge of Life follows two individuals fleeing Seattle who manage to find love once more as they navigate the myriad of dangers accompanying an asteroid that threatens Earth. Where did the idea for this novel come from?
The main idea came from reading online about Vivos xPoint in South Dakota. It’s a decommissioned military base with underground bunkers that they sell as “cabins.” During the early days of the pandemic, they sold like hotcakes. I thought they looked interesting and read more on their website about how the location was intentional, too far from an important city to be a target of a nuclear attack, away from the tectonic activity of the Ring of Fire, and beyond the Yellowstone blast zone. It was somewhere safe.
This made me decide that a global catastrophe would send my characters on a cross-country road trip as society crumbled around them.
What was your approach to writing the interactions between your characters?
I wanted it to be believable that in the face of danger, Kat and Ryan could find the good in themselves, each other, and the world, despite the chaos. I wanted to include simple moments that were sweet and intimate, so they could get to know one another and be vulnerable.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
Friendship
Acceptance
Survival and the will to live
Beauty
Courage
Love
What is the next book you are working on, and when will it be available?
I am doing the final line edits for the sequel to The Edge of Life: Love and Survival During the Apocalypse, called Aftermath: Into the Unknown. It takes place three years after the first story and is another road trip to Vita xTerra (my fictional bunker based on the real one). The FMC is looking for her uncle who was a minor character in the first book. It will be published December 19th, 2024.
The third book in the series (Love and Survival #3) is in the planning stage and will take place a few years after Aftermath and is set in the bunker city. The characters in the first two books will be featured, though they will not be the main focus.
I have two additional books being published in 2025, the third and final installment in my Train Hoppers series for April and an all-new sports romance, Racing Towards Destiny (series name: Love on Track) about a woman who abandons her old life, moves to Europe, and takes a job working with professional motorcycle racers on the MotoGP circuit.
Author Links: GoodReads | X (Twitter) | Facebook | Website | Amazon
Warned that a planet-killing asteroid is on a collision course with Earth, acquaintances Kat and Ryan join forces in an effort to survive. Mere hours before impact, they race toward the safety of Ryan’s inherited South Dakota bunker, encountering chaos. A last-ditch effort to nuke the asteroid only manages to fragment it into chunks causing multiple strikes.
Earthquakes, fire, and volcanic ashfall assail Kat and Ryan, who turn to each other for solace. Kat finds someone kind who values her differences and Ryan finds himself falling for Kat’s pluck and quick-thinking. Though jaded, they learn to trust and rely on one another.
Attempting to survive the onslaught of their new world, Kat and Ryan must reach the bunker before imminent food shortages and catastrophic climate change cause society to further unravel.
The Edge of Life shows that survival can include falling in love. With steamy romance and non-stop action, this is one thrilling apocalypse road trip you shouldn’t miss.
The Edge of Life: Love and Survival During the Apocalypse
The Edge of Life, by Lena Gibson, masterfully intertwines romance and survival as it follows Kat and Ryan, two individuals hardened by past relationships, who find love amidst the apocalypse. With a planet-killing asteroid hurtling toward Earth, they flee from Seattle to a bunker in South Dakota, navigating through earthquakes, fire, and volcanic ashfall. As society disintegrates around them, they encounter both allies and adversaries, making their journey as perilous as it is profound.
From the outset, the narrative kept me intrigued, uncertain of its direction, which is a testament to Gibson’s storytelling prowess. Nick, Kat, and Ryan’s mutual friend play an instrumental role in their initial connection. The evolving dynamics between Kat and Ryan captivated me as they transformed into characters driven by a renewed will to live despite the chaos surrounding them.
The sudden emergence of romance and intimacy between Kat and Ryan added an exciting twist to the story, enhancing the overall narrative without overshadowing it. While the story rightly centers on Kat and Ryan, Nick’s fate and his partner’s story sparked my curiosity, adding an extra layer of intrigue. This element did not detract from the core narrative, which remained focused and engaging throughout. The author’s writing style is accessible and immersive, allowing readers to delve deeply into the characters’ thoughts and feelings without ambiguity. Gibson excels in creating obstacles that compel her characters to confront their fears and emotions, ensuring their journey is anything but easy. This depth added a layer of realism and kept me invested in their survival.
The Edge of Life is a compelling read that combines the thrill of apocalyptic survival with a touching romance. Lena Gibson’s ability to balance action with emotional growth makes this novel a must-read for fans of both genres.
Pages: 301 | ASIN : B0BR44SF6G
Godspeed, Cedar Key
Godspeed, Cedar Key by Michael Presley Bobbitt crafts a compelling narrative in a post-apocalyptic setting on Cedar Key, an island off Florida’s coast. As the remnants of civilization dwindle, the island’s inhabitants grapple with challenges such as invasions, disease, and the breakdown of communication. Yet, a strong sense of community and resilience becomes their beacon of hope in this desolate environment. The story delves deep into the lives of these residents, whose connections span generations and mirror the island’s enduring spirit amidst the Gulf’s beauty and dangers.
Bobbitt skillfully merges contemporary fiction with apocalyptic elements, creating a novel that initially piques interest with its title and sustains it with a captivating narrative. The book navigates the complexities of community life against an apocalyptic backdrop, revealing the depth and resilience of human connections. The straightforward prose is deceptively rich, drawing readers into a world where adversity is met with unwavering strength and unity. At its heart, Godspeed, Cedar Key is about enduring friendships and the power of love woven into the fabric of Cedar Key’s storied past. This theme adds a timeless quality to the plot, echoing the island’s ability to withstand the ravages of disaster. The author’s skill in storytelling is evident in each chapter, maintaining the reader’s interest as events unfold. Contrasting with its dystopian setting, the novel emanates a hopeful undertone, emphasizing resilience and human connection.
Godspeed, Cedar Key is a compelling read for those interested in a blend of contemporary and apocalyptic fiction, offering an engaging story that resonates beyond its final pages.
Pages: 333 | ASIN : B0CSQVBVDG
Into the BeanStalk: Book One of the Jack: Cyberpunk Series
Into the Beanstalk, by J. Paul Roe, offers a cyberpunk reimagining of the classic tale Jack and the Beanstalk, blending action and a quest for justice. Set in a futuristic world, the protagonist Jack is confronted with the challenges of a birth defect, leading to her family’s overwhelming medical debt. This financial burden results in her father’s peonage after her mother’s demise. To rescue her father, Jack delves into the underworld of freelance crime, aligning herself with a local gang.
Roe’s narrative is an exploration of corporate tyranny and individual rebellion, as Jack’s intelligence and anger towards the corporate kleptocracy draw her to a group determined to liberate the oppressed. The story poignantly highlights the steep price of freedom. The novel successfully bridges a classic fantasy narrative with contemporary themes, reflecting the timeless nature of the struggle against formidable forces, here represented by a corporate “giant.”
The world-building in Into the Beanstalk is particularly noteworthy, creating a vivid and dynamic setting. Roe skillfully balances detailed explanations with narrative progression, avoiding any drag from excessive exposition. This balance aids in immersing the reader in Jack’s world, further enriched by her introspective thoughts on societal issues. The dialogue occasionally adopts a formal tone, as in a conversation between Jack and an old friend, this choice adds a unique instructional layer to their interactions, enhancing the depth of the characters’ communication.
Into the Beanstalk, by J. Paul Roe, is a compelling choice for enthusiasts of science fiction and fantasy reimaginings. Roe’s reinterpretation of a folklore classic through a modern lens is both engaging and thought-provoking. Into the Beanstalk promises to be an enriching addition to the genre, and its continuation in a series is something to anticipate with enthusiasm.
Pages: 233 | ASIN : B0C73DYVCW
DISASTERS: BOOK 6 OF THE MAGICIUM SERIES
In Disasters, the sixth installment of the Magicium series by T.N. Baldwin, readers reunite with Logan, a once unremarkable student from The Rock who has returned as a battle-hardened hero. Baldwin masterfully continues the saga, weaving a narrative rich with magic and mythical creatures in a world teetering on the brink of survival. The scarcity of food and the need for a new refuge drive the plot forward as Logan, with allies Carla and Blessing, strives to keep every survivor, human and Clearblood, safe.
Baldwin’s skill in character development shines as we witness the evolution of Logan and his companions. Disasters diverge from it’s predecessor Dissidents, not just in the challenges they present but in their exploration of unity and conflict. The characters must navigate their divergent views and find a way to coexist and survive, creating a dynamic interplay that adds depth to the narrative.
The Magicium series, and particularly Disasters, will appeal to adults who appreciate a well-crafted fantasy world. Baldwin’s storytelling is both accessible and engaging, making it an excellent choice for both long-time fans of the genre and those looking to delve into fantasy for the first time. Disasters doesn’t just continue the story after Dissidents; it expands the universe and deepens the reader’s connection to the characters and their plight. As the series progresses, Baldwin’s talent for creating compelling, intricate narratives becomes increasingly evident.
Through vivid storytelling and well-rounded character evolution, Baldwin not only continues the beloved Magicium series but elevates it, presenting themes of survival, unity, and conflict with a deft hand. This installment is a compelling narrative that invites readers to ponder what happens after ‘the end.’ For those who appreciate the art of fantasy storytelling, Disasters is a journey well worth taking. I eagerly anticipate the next chapter in this captivating series.
Pages: 337 | ASIN: B0CKX8RT55
Utopia Falling: A Darkness Rises
Utopia Falling: A Darkness Rises, by R. C. Vielee, offers a riveting journey through a dystopian fantasy world, intricately woven with themes of resilience, the eternal struggle between light and darkness, and the immense sacrifices necessary for the survival of entire worlds. Set in the aftermath of Earth’s Great Destruction, the novel introduces us to Tartica, a society that has emerged as a beacon of free love and harmony with nature. However, beneath its utopian veneer, Tartica grapples with the corrupting influence of power and the erosion of its once-cherished values.
At the heart of the narrative is Reyne, a humble farmer whose yearning for a simple life with Mithany is shattered by the looming threat of assassins from the menacing realm of Evidar. Reyne’s character is masterfully crafted, embodying the journey from naivety to a pivotal force within Tartica. His internal struggles and unexpected responsibilities resonate deeply, offering a compelling portrait of a relatable hero thrust into extraordinary circumstances. The novel explores the dichotomy between Reyne’s longing for simplicity and the complex destiny awaiting him, enriched by the depiction of Tartica’s leaders. Once virtuous, these figures succumb to dark desires, illustrating the fragile nature of goodness when confronted with deceit and ambition. This theme of moral decay is counterbalanced by the narrative arc of the Devil’s Blacksmith in Evidar, a character shrouded in mystery and manipulation. His relentless quest for power, even at the cost of others’ well-being, paints a morally ambiguous picture of an antagonist driven by a distorted vision of salvation.
Utopia Falling: A Darkness Rises is a mesmerizing tale that skillfully intertwines love, betrayal, and the exploration of alternate realms. The novel’s pace and world-building are both accessible and engaging, making it a standout addition to the dystopian fantasy genre. With its richly developed characters and intricate plot, R. C. Vielee’s creation is not just a story of a clash between utopia and darkness; it is an examination of the limits of freedom and the enduring power of the human spirit in the face of overwhelming odds.
Pages: 414 | ASIN : B0CBNKCGG2
LITERARY TITAN 