Blog Archives
LOY and Beyond
LOY and Beyond, authored by Todd David Gross, marks a compelling sequel to his initial work, LOY: In the Forests of the Mind. Blending elements of science fiction, fantasy, and philosophical musings, this novel invites readers into a post-apocalyptic world where the Rehloy tribe, endowed with unique abilities, thrives amidst nature and spirituality. This tranquil existence is threatened by the Ontarans, a technologically superior civilization intent on expansion.
Set in a world ravaged by unknown forces and devoid of modern technology, LOY and Beyond skillfully navigate the complexities of two contrasting cultures. The narrative unfolds through various viewpoints, including a sensitive child, a transformed mother, and a Shaman on a quest. As the Ontarans seek to dominate the land and its formidable creatures, they unearth something simultaneously valuable and dangerous, culminating in a critical first encounter. Gross’s narrative prowess shines in this sequel, surpassing his debut novel. His skill in character development and world-building seamlessly merges dystopian science fiction with fantasy, creating intriguing and novel mythos.
The juxtaposition of the spiritual Rehloy and the technologically driven Ontarans enriches the plot, offering insights into the cyclical nature of civilizations. Character interactions are the heart of this novel. Gross crafts intricate character arcs, guiding readers through their journeys of power shifts and self-discovery. These characters serve as conduits to explore themes of humanity, spirituality, and the symbiosis between all life forms, presenting a thoughtful fantasy narrative that encourages reflection on our relationship with nature and the ramifications of our actions. The novel maintains a balance between philosophical exploration and a gripping storyline. The pace is well-calibrated, blending suspense and action with contemplative moments, resulting in a deeply engaging reading experience. Gross’s immersive writing style and robust world-building ensure that readers remain captivated.
LOY and Beyond stands as a testament to Gross’s storytelling capabilities, offering vibrant narratives, thought-provoking themes, and memorable characters. While it is beneficial to read the preceding novel for a fuller experience, this book independently appeals to a broad spectrum of fiction and science fiction enthusiasts.
Pages: 448 | ISBN : 1737942623
The Survivors Continue On
Galacticide follows a man who thought he had stopped an alien race only to discover the Brood Mother survived and now wants to erase reality. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
Through most of history, women had to deal with the effects of war on the home-front, many times seeing their normalcy destroyed just as much as the fighting men. Striving to expand the scope and up the stakes one last time for the final book of the series, I wanted to start out with a classic revenge story. But I needed an antagonist who was so deeply wounded that this character’s wrath would know no limits. This character should not shy away from even the most drastic of measures, pledging to commit fundamental acts of destruction: tearing spacetime itself. I choose an alien mother as the chief antagonist, someone who lost their children to a war that wasn’t hers. The alien species in my novels has few females, but their offsprings count in the billions. What would the level of grief be for someone who lost 10 billion children on a single day?
What is one pivotal moment in the story that you think best defines Kel Chaada?
A direct answer here would contain heavy spoilers. Let me say that the pivotal moment makes clear why Kel Chaada, a man with many flaws, someone who is controversial even in his own fictional universe, is the hero of this story. I believe classic heroes exist, including in our present day. I also believe that those heroes are not heroic at every moment of their lives, and neither is Kel Chaada. But, unlike so many other characters, he is the only one who genuinely cares about the galaxy, its inhabitants and saving the sapient species, including humans. While he starts out doing things out of questionable motives, his character develops to doing the right thing for the sake of it being right. The pivotal moment in Galacticide will give his character the opportunity to tie many loose ends together.
Were you able to achieve everything you wanted with the characters in this series?
I believe so. While Kel Chaada’s adventures are the thread tying the narratives together, the trilogy can be split into ‘the Father’ (Kel Chaada in book 1), ‘the Mother’ (Sya Omga in book 2) and ‘the Child’ in book 3. Each of these characters has major developments in their arc in the respective books/chapters of the trilogy. The story is told from many points of view, including different alien species and intelligent machines, but the three main human characters keep even the more esoteric concepts relatable.
Where do you see your characters after the book ends?
The universe keeps evolving after the story ends, and this is true for the real thing as much as for fictional ones. There is much armed conflict in the story, and not everybody makes it, but the survivors will continue on. Some might follow interesting paths, warranting a sequel trilogy. Oh, who am I kidding? I am working on a sequel trilogy right now!
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No cause. No effect. Causality stops and reality shatters.
Kel Chaada believed to have beaten the extra-galactic menace when rigged AI cores blew the Võmémééř’s galactic realm apart. Sheltered from the explosions, the alien Brood Mother survived, mourning billions of her children, burning with vengeance.
One breeding couple is all it takes to re-build an army, but the Brood Mother’s target is neither Kel, nor space fleets: It is reality itself. No universe hostile to the Mother’s children shall remain.
Imprisoned for old crimes, his only child gone missing in a military coup at home, Kel Chaada witnesses his world crumble, the very fabric of existence tearing. Even if he escaped, how could he fight a raging alien mother capable of destroying the multiverse?
A Son of the Shadows: The Earthborn Saga Vol. I
A Son of the Shadows by Steven Bissett transports readers to the frigid, dystopian realm of Delta-13, a planet under the iron fist of Earth’s empire. This narrative skillfully intertwines the plight of Rex Hunt, a man condemned to eke out an existence in the harsh town of Midway due to his father’s rebellion, with a richly woven backdrop of political intrigue and survival. Rex, ostensibly a greenhouse worker, leads a clandestine life as a scavenger of alien artifacts, aiding the Underground resistance, spearheaded by his charismatic friend, Antonin Gromyko. Intriguingly, the story also introduces Wellesley, a snarky AI housed in a medallion from the ancient Kol-Prockian civilization, adding a unique technological twist to the tale. The plot thickens as Rex discovers increasing turmoil within the Underground and hears rumors of a new technology enabling authorities to penetrate their defenses. Concurrently, a mysterious illness strikes prisoners, drawing the empire’s attention and the arrival of the unconventional psychiatrist, Lily Tselitel.
The narrative excels in its exploration of the human psyche through Lily’s professional insights and Rex’s introspective journeys, delving into themes of ego and consciousness. Bissett showcases his grasp of these complex concepts through well-researched and thoughtful prose. The story’s pace is brisk, with unexpected revelations that add layers of mystery and keep the reader engaged. Moments of humor and levity, particularly through the banter between Antonin and Wellesley and the blossoming romance between Rex and Lily, provide a welcome respite from the overarching somberness of their surroundings.
The book’s thorough engagement with complex philosophical ideas and its use of sophisticated language offers a rewarding challenge to the reader, encouraging thoughtful pauses to savor the narrative’s depth. The story features dynamic character development, including a surprising twist with a key character that adds an element of intrigue, suggesting unexplored depths that might captivate some readers’ imaginations. This creative choice contributes to the novel’s richness and does not diminish its enjoyment.
A Son of the Shadows is a commendable choice for enthusiasts of dystopian fiction, blending intellectual discourse, resistance against oppressive regimes, and a touch of romance set against a frozen, foreboding landscape. With its compelling characters and intriguing plot, this novel will captivate readers who relish a story that challenges both the heart and the mind.
Pages: 479 | ASIN : B0CHV6484N
Galacticide
In Galacticide, author Bert-Oliver Boehmer crafts a space opera of epic proportions, where the fate of the galaxy hangs in the balance. The protagonist, Kel Chaada, initially believes he has vanquished the alien threat to all life. Yet, the survival of the Brood Mother casts a shadow of impending doom, her ambitions now escalating to the annihilation of reality itself. Kel, trapped and sidelined from the cosmic battlefield, faces a dire situation. The narrative explores whether he can escape and confront the Brood Mother in a climactic struggle, with the existence of reality itself at stake.
Boehmer’s narrative skillfully weaves elements reminiscent of science fiction luminaries such as Frank Herbert and Isaac Asimov while introducing unique concepts distinguishing Galacticide within the genre. While Galacticide is the third installment in a trilogy, Boehmer skillfully navigates the narrative to welcome new readers, effectively acquainting them with the story’s rich and expansive universe. Familiar science fiction themes, such as humanity’s hubris and alien hostility, are present, drawing parallels with recent developments in Marvel’s cinematic universe, notably the multiverse exploration. These elements provide a backdrop to the novel’s standout feature: the protagonist, Kel Chaada. He is portrayed as a world-weary anti-hero, grappling with the weight of his mission against moments of existential doubt. This character depth adds a compelling layer to the narrative, resonating with readers who might empathize with his internal struggles.
Galacticide is a testament to Boehmer’s ability to balance classic sci-fi elements with innovative ideas, creating a story that is both familiar and fresh. The novel invites readers into a vast, imaginative universe, posing profound questions about duty, destiny, and the choices that define us.
Pages: 331 | ASIN : B0CL7C291M
The Engineer’s Mechanic
In The Engineer’s Mechanic, the debut novel in The MetiCity Series by L. K. Wintur, readers are plunged into a speculative sci-fi world where a dominant tech company, MetiCorp, replaces traditional governance. This intriguing premise sets the stage for a narrative that questions the implications of corporate sovereignty over human lives, where social credit outweighs personal freedoms. The story follows Ren, a gifted mechanic with a knack for reviving old technologies, living on the fringes of MetiCity, a metropolis under the strict control of MetiCorp. Ren’s routine life takes a dramatic turn with the discovery of a seemingly irreparable old drone. Alongside his mentor, Zander, Ren unravels the drone’s secrets, which are closely tied to MetiCorp and the city’s dark underbelly. This discovery puts them on a collision course with MetiCorp, forcing Ren to make a crucial decision: uncover the truths hidden in MetiCity or turn a blind eye for his safety.
Wintur’s narrative is an engaging blend of thrilling and light-hearted moments, balancing the novel’s exploration of darker themes like dictatorship and societal despair with a sense of adventure. The inclusion of references to classic sci-fi works adds a layer of enjoyment for science fiction enthusiasts. Characters like Zander and Zari add depth to the story, contributing to its dynamic world-building. The book offers an enjoyable reading experience, yet presents an opportunity to delve deeper into its central conflict. I feel that expanding on the intricacies of life under MetiCorp’s rule with more complexity and detail would enrich our understanding of the characters’ motivations and the societal dynamics of MetiCity. Further nuanced character development, and a more thorough exploration of the setting could, I believe, significantly deepen the reader’s engagement with this dystopian world.
The Engineer’s Mechanic stands as a promising start to The MetiCity Series. It’s a highly recommended read for fans of sci-fi narratives that blend action with societal critique, particularly those interested in stories of individuals challenging overarching corporate powers.
Pages: 387 | ASIN : B0CTFVL4P4
The Risks of AI
EMA follows a young man attending a conference held by his idol, the creator of a complex AI system designed to save Earth’s ecosystem, who uncovers information that could have massive implications for the fate of humanity. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
Throughout my career, I’ve been working in applied research and innovation within the realm of artificial intelligence (AI), as I am currently serving as the research director of an applied research center in Quebec City, the subjects explored in my book, particularly the intersection of technology and the environment, have always held a special place in my heart. During the COVID crisis, I took the opportunity to delve deeper into AI and its connections with human intelligence, culminating in my essay titled “Mixed Intelligence.”
Given my profound interest in science fiction literature, the idea of crafting my own novel naturally took root. The emergence of ChatGPT brought the topic of AI’s role in our society to the forefront, prompting me to synthesize my passions and align them with contemporary trends. In doing so, I set out to create my book.
What were the morals you were trying to capture while creating your characters?
EMA serves as a parable addressing the role artificial intelligence should play in our society. In the contemporary era, there is a tendency to place unquestioning reliance on technology to resolve issues like the environmental crisis, often dismissing behavioral changes that might impact our quality of life. Through EMA‘s compelling narrative, the story seeks to raise awareness about the risks associated with exclusive reliance on AI. It prompts contemplation about a potential future where major corporations dictate our actions, emphasizing the importance of thoughtful consideration in our technological decisions.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
As previously noted, the pivotal themes explored in the book revolve around the hazards associated with dependence on technologies such as AI to resolve our challenges. Additionally, the narrative underscores the significance of diminishing our consumption as an essential step towards navigating the climate crisis successfully.
I find a problem in well-written stories in that I always want there to be another book to keep the story going. Is there a second book planned?
Yes, I’ve commenced the writing of my second book, titled ‘POL,’ which delves into the perils of AI for our democracy. The narrative unfolds two years after the conclusion of the first book, where an economic crisis is intensified by the repercussions of EMA’s decision. The storyline revolves around the same characters as they endeavor to outmaneuver a burgeoning new dictatorship on the global stage.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website
Damien Minsky, a genius inventor, has created EMA: an artificial intelligence designed to monitor and control the ecological consequences of our consumer society. Thanks to its integrated economic system, “the cryptonomy,” it ensures that our needs are met while respecting our planet’s limited resources. Ultimately, it will enable the human race to live in balance with nature.
Jason Webb, a great admirer of Minsky, is attending one of his conferences in Montreal when an attack occurs. Shaken, he sets out to find the perpetrators. His incredible discoveries will have implications for the fate of all humanity. He is drawn into an adventure where cyberpirates and megalomaniacs meet in the Metaverse.
The Soul of Chaos
Gregory Wunderlin’s The Soul of Chaos, part of the Litanies of the Lost Star series, offers an intriguing foray into a fantasy landscape marked by apocalyptic themes and a fusion of technology and magic. Set in a dystopian world ruled by dark gods, the narrative revolves around Rurik, a royal descendant tasked with the monumental responsibility of saving his land. This novel stands out for its rich language and successful blending of genres, defying easy classification into a single category.
Wunderlin skillfully crafts a diverse cast of characters, including the likes of Kali and Rurik, each bringing their unique perspectives and stories to the forefront. The author’s adeptness in world-building is commendable; he constructs a vivid, intricate universe from scratch, a feat that often poses a challenge even for seasoned writers. The immersive quality of the storytelling kept me engaged throughout. The innovative aspects and the authentically portrayed characters in The Soul of Chaos are commendable. The pacing of the novel presents a varied rhythm, with some chapters unfolding at a contemplative pace that offers a thoughtful contrast to the more action-packed or intense scenes. This variation in tempo adds a unique dynamic to the narrative’s flow.
The Soul of Chaos captivated me, largely due to the author’s eloquent language and the intricate development of the characters. This novel stands out as an excellent introduction for newcomers to fantasy and a delightful read for long-time enthusiasts. The Soul of Chaos has sparked an eagerness to explore the rest of the series, reflecting its growing appeal to me.
Pages: 431 | ASIN : B0CCYLTQRM
Erasures
In Erasures by Omar Imady, readers are transported to a post-war Earth, where the remnants of civilization gather under the auspices of the World Congress. Amidst this backdrop, the Zone 4 Literature Hub stands as a bastion of human knowledge, safeguarding the remaining books, considered the pinnacle of human achievement. Ray Blankenship, a key archivist in this hub, finds his regimented life disrupted by a baffling mystery: the disappearance of religious texts from the archives.
Imady’s narrative does not conform to traditional genre boundaries. It echoes elements of Ray Bradbury’s Fahrenheit 451 and George Lucas’s film “THX 1138,” blending them into a distinct mystery narrative with a subversive approach. The originality of this fusion is a testament to the author’s creativity. The character of Ray Blankenship is as compelling as the plot itself. Portrayed in the later stages of middle age, Ray’s yearning to escape the monotony of his life imbues the story with a sense of restless, subdued energy. The depiction of Ray’s life, marked by a pervasive sense of quiet desperation, is likely to resonate with many. While the immediate antagonist seems to be the mysterious force behind the erasures, a deeper, more subtle conflict brews within Ray—a growing need to break free from the constraints of his routine. This internal struggle becomes as central to the narrative as the mystery of the vanishing texts. As the story progresses, Ray’s quest for personal transformation and the unraveling of the mystery behind the erasures intertwine. Imady’s skillful resolution of these intertwined narratives highlights his adept storytelling abilities, offering a satisfying conclusion that addresses both the external mystery and Ray’s internal journey.
Imady’s Erasures stands out as a compelling fusion of mystery and introspection, weaving a narrative that captivates with its originality and depth. The book challenges conventional genre boundaries, making it a refreshing read for those seeking something beyond the ordinary. Through the journey of Ray Blankenship, Imady explores themes of conformity, the value of knowledge, and the human desire for change, making this novel not just a story but a reflective exploration of the human condition.
Pages: 250 | ASIN : B0CNQQ4HLM
LITERARY TITAN 