Blog Archives
The Power of the Ascendant
Power of the Ascendant delves into the lives of superpowered humans, exploring their dynamics among themselves and those lacking powers. The story centers on Phillip, a man who grapples with understanding his abilities, his role in the world, and the divine plan laid out for him. Despite its religious undertones, this novel encompasses a portrayal of conflict, presenting a world with its own distinct religious elements and metaphysical rules.
The narrative combines elements reminiscent of Avatar: The Last Airbender and X-Men, creating a rich, superhero movie-like tapestry that delves deeply into its world and lore—a comparison the author Ris playfully acknowledges. This depth makes the setting feel like part of a well-established universe. As the primary protagonist, Phillip acts as a relatable guide for readers, navigating the intricate details of his powers and the broader universe. Power of the Ascendant maintains a consistent adherence to its own complex systems and world-building throughout, making it a compelling read for fans of superpowers, metaphysical exploration, and philosophical inquiry. Ris’s skill in weaving these elements together commands great admiration. While the narrative features dialogue that can feel formal and deliberate, especially for characters who do not use telepathy, this stylistic choice stands as the main point of critique. Yet, it does not detract from the overall enjoyment of the book.
Power of the Ascendant stands out for its ambitious world-building, thoughtful character development, and insightful exploration of its unique mechanics. Ris’s work is a testament to creative storytelling that enriches the genre, making the novel a worthwhile endeavor for those intrigued by the interplay of superpowers and philosophical depth.
Pages: 332 | ASIN : B0CYB2CT5Q
The Water Factor: A Rightfully Mine Book
The Water Factor plunges readers into a gripping eco-thriller set in a dystopian near-future of 2039, a world not so far removed from our own. Here, the scarcity of water drives a tale of struggle, resistance, and survival, mirroring our current global water crisis. At the heart of the story is James Hokama Byrne, a character who embarks on a daring mission to steal water trucks for his drought-stricken community. The novel’s fusion of an urgent environmental theme with the classic elements of a thriller creates a compelling narrative that resonates with contemporary concerns about resource depletion and corporate greed.
Eichinger’s writing is both potent and poignant, vividly illustrating a world on the precipice of ecological collapse. The portrayal of a future where water is a precious and fought-over resource is unsettling yet believable, which is a stark reflection of current global water scarcity trends. What sets this novel apart is the author’s inclusion of indigenous perspectives on natural resources, which I thought was a rich and often overlooked dimension that adds depth and nuance to the environmental conversation.
One of the most riveting scenes in the book is the heist of water trucks led by James. In the dead of night, James and his team stealthily infiltrate a secure compound. This moment of high-stakes theft is not just about acquiring a vital resource it symbolizes a desperate fight against a corrupt system that commodifies water. It’s an exhilarating sequence that highlights the risks the characters are willing to take and the dire state of their world.
The Water Factor is a thought-provoking and timely novel. Its fusion of environmental issues with thrilling elements will appeal to readers who enjoy suspense novels that not only entertain but also inform and provoke reflection. Particularly recommended for fans of eco-thrillers and readers interested in environmental activism.
Pages: 388 | ASIN : B0D1X6WBJ7
Eyes of Blue
In Eyes of Blue, author S.M. Sykes crafts a riveting tale set in a post-apocalyptic world ravaged by a catastrophic plague. The protagonist, Ava Caroline Washington, is a survivor in a secluded Delaware state park. Her relative peace is shattered, thrusting her into an uncharted and dangerous world outside. Here, she encounters enigmatic beings with unnerving blue eyes, setting her on a quest to uncover their mysteries before they threaten the remnants of civilization.
Sykes takes a unique approach to the zombie genre, introducing ‘Deaders’ who break from traditional undead narratives. The story delves into the human spirit’s resilience and the complexities of moral dilemmas, echoing current societal concerns and the impact of technology. The narrative is skillfully woven, balancing intense action with reflective moments that mirror the pace and pauses of contemporary life.
Ava Caroline Washington stands as a compelling character, a symbol of humanity’s struggle to adapt in a fractured world. Her attachment to a lost phone is a touching metaphor for our dependence on technology and the challenges of maintaining human connections amidst turmoil. Ava’s journey prompts readers to contemplate their own ties to technology, identity, and the delicate nature of societal structures. The novel also innovates within its genre by reimagining the zombie archetype. The Deaders in Eyes of Blue do not propagate their kind through victimization, shifting the focus from physical survival to the psychological and ethical challenges faced by survivors. This thematic evolution mirrors contemporary fears of existential threats, whether biological, environmental, or societal, lending the story a multi-dimensional and pertinent quality.
Eyes of Blue resonates as a cautionary narrative reflecting real concerns about bioengineering and pandemic preparedness. In a world grappling with global crises and rapid technological change, the story’s exploration of a society undone by a deadly disease is both timely and thought-provoking. It prompts readers to ponder the ramifications of unchecked scientific endeavors and the fragility of established norms.
Sykes’ debut work transcends genre constraints, providing a narrative that is both entertaining and intellectually stimulating. It showcases the potential of speculative fiction to shed light on enduring aspects of the human condition in a rapidly evolving world. Eyes of Blue is not just a survival story; it is a reflection on what it means to be human in an era of profound change.
Pages: 239 | ASIN : B09X546562
Camaraderie Amidst Adversity
The Gold Mystery Adventure follows a young and determined protagonist who steals a golden artifact to save her planet, embarking on a perilous journey to rescue her mother and liberate her homeland. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I have long harbored an affinity for the works of esteemed authors such as Jules Verne and H.G. Wells, finding profound enjoyment in their literary creations, alongside a fondness for children’s adventure and mystery narratives. One day, while observing my son engrossed in play with a remote-controlled device, inspiration struck, igniting the genesis of a creative endeavor. Thus, I conceived a narrative featuring an antagonistic force juxtaposed against a courageous young protagonist, interwoven within the backdrop of a climate crisis. Layer by layer, I meticulously crafted and augmented this concept, imbuing it with depth and complexity.
Zhen is an intriguing and well-developed character. What were some driving ideals behind your character’s development?
In response to the narrative challenge posed by an indomitable antagonist, I undertook the task of crafting a young female protagonist embodying the essence of a warrior. My intent was to eschew the conventional archetype of a superhero, opting instead for a character who relied upon her youthful vigor, sharp intellect, unwavering resolve, valor, and relentless determination to vanquish her adversary.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
In establishing the foundational pillars of the book, it became imperative to explore and validate a myriad of themes that resonate deeply with readers. Central to this narrative tapestry are the intricate dynamics of familial bonds, underscored by the enduring values of love, support, and understanding within familial relationships. Moreover, the significance of friendship emerges as a guiding principle, illuminating the transformative power of companionship and camaraderie amidst adversity.
Loyalty, a cornerstone of character, serves as a guiding light for the protagonists, highlighting the unwavering commitment to stand by one another through trials and tribulations. This unwavering allegiance intertwines seamlessly with the theme of teamwork, emphasizing the collective strength that arises from unity and collaboration.
The journey of the protagonist is imbued with the essence of bravery and courage, as she confronts daunting challenges with unwavering resolve and a steadfast spirit. In moments of adversity, her compassion for others becomes a beacon of light, illuminating the path toward empathy and understanding.
As the narrative unfolds, the protagonist undergoes a profound coming-of-age journey, navigating the complexities of self-discovery, growth, and maturation. This transformative process is epitomized by the virtue of perseverance, as she tenaciously pursues her goals despite the odds stacked against her.
Central to the narrative tapestry is the enduring hope for the future, symbolizing the belief in the inherent capacity for positive change and redemption. Anchored by the principle of taking a stand, the protagonist embodies the ethos of moral courage, daring to challenge injustice and championing the cause of righteousness.
Collectively, these thematic threads interweave to form a rich and resonant tapestry, inviting readers to embark on a journey of introspection, empowerment, and ultimately, redemption.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
The next book I want to write is a noir story like Fargo and the Ripley series on Netflix. It’ll take a few years to plan the plot carefully.
Author Links: Goodreads | Amazon
An action-packed climate fiction quest that blends elements of tech, magic, mystery, friendship and family. For 10 years of age and up.
In a world on the brink of destruction under a madwoman’s tyranny, a brave young girl emerges as hope’s last beacon.
Defying her oppressors, Zhen steals a valuable gold object, launching her into a perilous and whirlwind adventure to a mysterious planet.
She believes the gold artifact possesses special powers. Unlocking its mysteries holds the key to her homeland’s salvation. With her enemy in pursuit and a race against time, Zhen must be smarter and braver than ever before to stay alive, rescue her captive mother, and return home armed with the solution that could alter the fate of her planet forever.
Birth Management Water
Ian Waldraff’s Birth Management Water enters the realm of speculative and dystopian fiction, presenting a world where the right to birth is stringently controlled by an oppressive regime. The story centers on Jane and Jacob, a couple grappling with the painful denial of parenthood. Their quest for answers leads them to a mysterious place named Jefferson, initiating a journey filled with revelations and unexpected turns. As they yearn for a fresh start, Jane and Jacob face numerous challenges, prompting deep reflections on identity, sacrifice, and personal change.
Waldraff’s narrative skillfully addresses themes of societal control, reproductive rights, and the extent of government intervention in personal freedoms. The plot, with its dynamic pacing and swift character introductions, initially sets the stage for an intriguing narrative journey. This approach ultimately enhances the story’s unique and compelling nature, progressively drawing the reader into its fascinating world. The portrayal of a society where birth is regulated is particularly striking, serving as a commentary on governmental power and human vulnerability. The inclusion of a secluded island, immune to the regime’s scrutiny, adds a layer of intrigue and complexity to the story.
Waldraff masterfully portrays the protagonists’ struggle against systemic oppression, vividly conveying their journey and eliciting strong emotional responses from the reader. This focus on their plight highlights the nuanced exploration of character development throughout the narrative. The characters in the narrative make decisions that are intriguing and thought-provoking, adding a layer of complexity and depth to the storyline. This element of unpredictability keeps the reader engaged and curious throughout the journey. The book’s intense and poignant conclusion is well-executed, leaving a lasting impression and provoking thoughtful contemplation. Waldraff delves into existential themes, exploring the essence of identity and the quest for autonomy. This exploration enriches the reading experience and challenges readers to reconsider their perceptions of societal structures and personal agency.
Birth Management Water is a fascinating and insightful book that delves into the intricacies of human existence in a dystopian world. The author presents a thought-provoking narrative that engages the reader from the very beginning and evokes poignant emotions throughout. The book explores the complex themes of identity, power, and control. Overall, Birth Management Water is a must-read for anyone interested in dystopian fiction or those who enjoy exploring the complexities of human nature.
The Enforcer’s Tale
In The Enforcer’s Tale, Joanne Kimm transports readers to a farming village plunged into turmoil by the arrival of the government’s Children’s Alliance Coalition. The narrative swiftly establishes a world where fear grips every family, worried about meeting the Coalition’s standards to avoid losing their children. Central to this upheaval is Joseph Young, who, after a distressing separation from his mother, endures a grueling six-year journey, transforming from a village boy to an Enforcer for the Coalition. His ascent to a senior role, precipitated by an unforeseen death, thrusts him into a labyrinth of deceit and conflicting loyalties. Joseph’s ultimate dilemma, torn between aiding rebels or condemning them—including his own mother—to death, forms the crux of the story.
Kimm’s narrative skillfully captures the essence of hope and valor in the face of adversity. The evolution of Joseph, initially portrayed as innocent and unworldly, is particularly striking. His gradual awareness of the complex realities surrounding him and his role in this new world is a testament to Kimm’s character development prowess.
The secondary characters in Joseph’s orbit are equally nuanced, each adding layers to the plot and enriching the story’s texture. The book’s relatively short length belies its rich content. Kimm masterfully weaves current happenings with hints of what’s to come, crafting a narrative that is both suspenseful and engaging. This approach not only injects each chapter with intrigue but also encourages a continuous and immersive reading experience, culminating in an unforeseen conclusion.
A key feature of The Enforcer’s Tale is its accessible language. Kimm’s deliberate choice of straightforward and relatable terms broadens the novel’s appeal, inviting readers of various ages to engage deeply with Joseph’s journey. This language choice effectively bridges the gap between the protagonist and the reader, magnifying the story’s resonance.
Joanne Kimm’s The Enforcer’s Tale stands out for its captivating plot, richly drawn characters, and thoughtful use of language. It is an excellent choice for those who appreciate novels that blend suspenseful narratives with complex characters and themes, offering a rewarding literary journey.
Pages: 266 | ASIN : B0CKJ7LGLR
True Community and Connection
Godspeed, Cedar Key follows a group of people stranded on an island after a mainland is destroyed who now have to learn to rely on one another without any technology to survive. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
Godspeed, Cedar Key is my debut novel. I have primarily been known as a playwright for the past decade. My last two plays premiered off-Broadway in New York City, and those two plays and several others continue to be produced regionally. There is a running joke among people that follow my writing, and I’m happy to be in on it. I only ever really write about one thing–the power and deep relevance of the extended families we create for ourselves. For this novel, I wanted to create a premise that would give me a vehicle to write about the incredible community I have witnessed living in Cedar Key. I am fairly obsessed with the island’s wild history and the common theme that runs throughout it–community. True community and connection that is so often promised in the modern age but seldom delivered. Wars, natural disasters, and calamities of all kinds have laid siege to Cedar Key over the past 180 years or so; no matter the challenge or the age, the little island persevered because folks looked out for one another. I like to call Godspeed, Cedar Key an anti-dystopian novel because, as your sharp review pointed out so compellingly, this story is about love and friendship pushing back against the darkness.
What were some of the emotional and moral guidelines you followed when developing your characters?
Because I began my writing career in the theater, I learned quickly that any artifice in the characters I create and in the things they say or do would be exposed. Audience members and readers are too smart to accept anything that doesn’t ring true to them. Of course, I hope to create elevated characters that face meaningful trials a reader can see reflected in their own lives, but if the characters ever move outside of their fundamental motivations, even for a small bit of dialogue or a passing moment, the whole world I have created will tumble around them. I respect the reader’s time and interest in my story too much to give them anything but the truth–good, bad, ugly, or indifferent.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
The essential need for human beings to live in true community with others.
Love and friendship as the only reasonable response to a world gone crazy.
The beauty of people living in close harmony with the natural world.
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?
There is a one-paragraph Epilogue at the end of the book that portends a continuation of the story. I have another novel in the works now called Trailer Park Elegy. I wrote a play of the same title and was so drawn in by the world and characters of that story that I wanted to flesh it out in novel form. Just after the release of Trailer Park Elegy, I intend to complete the second of a hopefully three-part series set on Cedar Key in the wake of societal collapse.
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Website | Kirkus Review | Amazon
Cedar Key is an island dangling off the western coast of Florida in the Gulf of Mexico. On a chilly February morning, the horizon across the bay is enveloped in a microsecond of piercing light, and in an instant the old world is gone forever. Fires burn on horizons around the planet but the heat eventually gives way to the creeping monotone of the skies. The gray sets in overhead and all around, determined to keep the sun away from the land and waters.
In the new world, 300 islanders must learn to survive in the footprints of their forebears, battling invaders from the mainland, disease and natural disasters, and the compounding dread of hearing almost nothing from the wider world. This anti-dystopian novel is a quiet ode to the essential need for humans to live in true community with one another. Despite the loss of most technologies and modern comforts, the islanders persevere in the face of hardship and death– burying their loved ones in the morning and planting spring vegetables in the afternoon.
The deep friendship between the island’s mayor and an eccentric clam farmer underpin a story spanning three centuries of Cedar Key history. The triumphs and failures of past generations echo into the new world, as the islanders learn to lean on each other and their shared history.
The Gulf’s rich bounty and destructive power are a thrilling setting for a life-affirming story where love and friendship push back against the darkness.
Eco-Friendly Cyberpunk
The Engineer’s Mechanic follows a talented young mechanic with the skills to push machines and droids past their original capabilities who joins a group fighting for freedom from the city’s control organization. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I was fed up with all the gloomy sci-fi stuff out there – the dystopian cold and depressing stories. So, I thought, why not try something more upbeat? It turns out, making a happy/fun sci-fi adventure is way trickier than it seems, and I found myself struggling to drive away from the very content that inspired me to write in the first place. The future always looks so bleak, so I decided to make sure my sci-fi would at least have some place where the people are happy and living sustainable lives. Even if that comes with a cost.
Originally, I had this wild idea for a video game with racing, fighting and espionage. Picture a mix of F1 racing (but using jets!), battlebots and adventure inspired by the likes of Mega Man and Assassins Creed. I thought it would be interesting to have a game such as Grand Theft Auto, wherein you can choose your path from the three and build up your character with a specialty. It turned out that writing out the lore was the easiest way to bring that world to life. One day, with no prior writing experience, I just sat down and typed out the story in my head. Before I knew it, I was nearing the climax of my first saga, and I had typed almost 90,000 words.
I find the world you created in this novel brimming with possibilities. Where did the inspiration for the setting come from, and how did it change as you were writing?
I started off inspired by cool solarpunk arcologies, you know, those futuristic eco-cities. But creating a utopia poses a problem – it becomes very hard to develop an antagonist that makes sense, or develop any kind of drama that couldn’t be solved by the very technology that makes the utopia what it is. That’s when I looked around and saw the real-world issues of impending catastrophic climate disasters and corporate control of the political system. Thus, MetiCities were born. Domed havens that shield their citizens from the harsh environment, whilst leaving those on the outside out in the cold (an ironic expression considering global temperature on earth in the story has skyrocketed).
The story kind of turned into more of a cyberpunk vibe, like Akira (one of our favorites), but with cities that are clean and eco-friendly. This is something I haven’t seen in any of the sci-fi I have consumed, and it helped to fulfill my original need to create something ‘familiar, yet different’. I always knew I wanted to switch POV to a female character; so when I met Kori and showed her the work in progress, and she loved the story, I knew it made perfect sense for her to join me in the writing of it. Her influence can be seen woven throughout the book, in hours of discussion and research, and not just the parts she personally wrote. Having someone to bounce ideas off and to contribute to the story, made the effort so much more enjoyable and much easier.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
- What happens when we create a completely sustainable environment, and humans have their basic needs met? Do we continue to advance, or do we become lazy with technology taking over our labor? What happens to societal structure if money no longer holds the power it does today? When markets are planned and people are free to explore their personal indulgences without hindrance.
- What happens to rural areas with a populace of minorities in the event of these changes? When these ‘sanctuary cities’ pop up, how do those on the outskirts survive? The Jardinera are a fictional race in our book that represent them and explore the effects of marginalization by the powerful.
- The environment was a major topic of importance for us to incorporate into the book. We wanted to show a realistic world that could very well await us if action isn’t taken, and the runaway effects of climate change continue to build.
When will book 2 be available? Can you give us an idea of where that book will take readers?
We’re aiming to release book two within the next year and are working diligently now to develop the story and keep the excitement alive. It will pick up right where book one left off, answering some questions that remain a mystery and continuing to deliver the mix of adventure, comedy and thrills to prepare our readers for the third installment.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Linktr.ee
In the domed heart of MetiCity-6, a young mechanic named Ren rises from the depths of anonymity, marked by his extraordinary talent for engineering. An orphan touched by adversity, Ren possesses the rare gift of transforming mundane machines and droids into marvels of technology, making the impossible palpably possible. His exceptional skills draw the attention of a clandestine group of rebels, unveiling to him the dark underbelly of MetiCorp, the authoritarian power presiding over the city with an iron fist.
This spellbinding science fiction saga takes Ren and an ensemble of unforgettable rebels on a harrowing journey through both the real world and the holographic. Together, they mount a daring offensive against the tyrannical MetiCorp, uncovering layers of corruption and betrayal that threaten to suffocate the city’s hope under a veil of despair. Their quest is a razor’s edge walk between liberation and annihilation, challenging the very foundations of MetiCorp’s dominion.
Will Ren’s extraordinary talents light the fire of revolution, or will the encroaching darkness of MetiCorp’s reach extinguish their hopes for a new dawn? Can he rise above his scars and become the beacon of change in a city engulfed by a relentless thirst for power and control?
Embark on a journey with Ren, where the stakes are nothing less than the soul of MetiCity-6 itself, where each turn could spell triumph or disaster for Ren and the very essence of freedom.
Dive into a narrative as compelling as Suzanne Collins, as visionary as Ernest Cline, and as rebellious as Pierce Brown. Uncover the story of Ren in MetiCity-6, and join the fight for a future where freedom reigns supreme! Start the series now.
LITERARY TITAN 