Blog Archives
Sol Accords: Starbourne
D.G. Podporski’s Sol Accords: Starbourne is a gripping journey into a future where humanity’s reach extends across the stars, but old struggles—corporate greed, personal identity, and survival—remain stubbornly present. At its heart is Jaeden Starbourne, a man recovering from cryogenic sleep and grappling with amnesia, debt, and the harsh realities of a universe dominated by bureaucracy and exploitation. The book seamlessly blends high-stakes space adventures with raw human emotions, creating a world that feels as vast and cold as the space Jaeden inhabits.
The opening prologue, with its dim lights and encroaching darkness, had me hooked instantly. Podporski masterfully sets the scene, like when the derelict ship first awakens with “sparks blowing through the door unabated.” The tension is palpable, and the descriptions are so vivid I could almost hear the hissing of machinery as the ship slowly came back to life. However, the pacing can feel uneven; moments of technical description occasionally bog down the flow. That said, the immersive world-building more than makes up for it. I also appreciated the deeply flawed and relatable characters. Jaeden’s struggle with anger, debt, and his loss of memory felt painfully real. His irritability, as highlighted in the scene where he fights with the AI assistant “Lexi,” reflects the weight he carries daily. Yet, there’s a quiet resilience in him that makes you root for his survival. Supporting characters like Joanna Stokley add depth and camaraderie, though some secondary figures felt underexplored—Sylvie, for example, seemed more like a trope than a fully realized individual. The story raises thought-provoking questions about identity and second chances. Jaeden, labeled with the surname “Starbourne” to denote his orphaned status in space, embodies this struggle. The societal disdain he faces for his name mirrors real-world biases, and his journey to reclaim purpose resonates deeply. The corporate backdrop, meanwhile, critiques unchecked capitalism in a way that feels uncomfortably close to our present-day realities.
Sol Accords: Starbourne is a rich, character-driven space opera that rewards patience. Fans of slow-burn science fiction with a focus on survival and human complexity will find much to love. While the story’s pacing might challenge those looking for constant action, its emotional depth and detailed world-building make it worth the ride. I’d recommend it to readers who enjoyed The Expanse or Dark Matter and anyone who’s ever pondered the price of progress and the resilience of the human spirit.
Pages: 445 | ASIN : B0D4FBRCTH
A Hero Of Sorts
The Legacy of a Fool follows a young man who awakens in a post-apocalyptic world to discover harsh truths about his past as he fights to spare the world’s survivors from a devastating military project. Where did the idea for this novel come from?
The inspiration for this novel came from my childhood love of Nintendo games and some of the fantasy movies that were popular during the 1980s, such as The Last Starfighter and The Neverending Story. When I first came up with the idea of writing a novel, I wanted to write something that captured the same spirit that was present in those old video games and movies – I basically wanted to write something that would have inspired a younger version of myself.
The inspiration for the book’s main protagonist, Devin Skye, indirectly came from Eustace Scrubb, a character who appears in The Voyage of the Dawn Treader, The Silver Chair, and The Last Battle, the third, fourth, and final books respectively in C.S. Lewis’ fantasy series, The Chronicles of Narnia. As a kid I was always fascinated by Eustace because he started out as a deeply flawed individual that, as a reader, you couldn’t help but hate, however, after undergoing a radical transformation, he eventually becomes a hero of sorts. I always found his character metamorphosis to be fascinating and even relatable in a very human kind of way.
What is the most difficult part of your writing process?
The most difficult part of writing The Legacy of a Fool was getting into the heads of each of the characters. I wanted to make sure that I gave each of them a standout personality as well as a unique voice without going over-the-top. For example, Sarina’s diary entries come from the perspective of a soft, sweet, and loving young woman. However, as a male, I found writing her thoughts to be somewhat difficult. I owe a lot to my wife’s feedback as it regards getting the female voices and emotions correct.
The science inserted in the fiction, I felt, was well balanced. How did you manage to keep it grounded while still providing the fantastic edge science fiction stories usually provide?
I tried to create and envision a future that was both fantastical yet, to some degree, realistic based on the trajectory that our modern society is currently headed down. The science fiction and fantasy elements that I created were intended to invoke a sense of wonder in the reader without going too far out in left field, so to speak. I tried to introduce just enough realism that, with a little bit of imagination, the reader could see some of these elements as a plausible reality. In short, I wanted to create a world in which humans were able to achieve a great deal of their potential in both the technological and spiritual realms.
Can we look forward to more work from you soon? What are you currently working on?
Yes, I am really excited about my next novel. I’ve decided to step up the sci-fi elements by including more modern-day conspiracies, such as the Mandela Effect, glitches in the matrix, time travel, and mysterious alien encounters. While this novel can stand alone, there will be several occurrences from The Legacy of a Fool that will link into it.
I hope to release my next novel later this year. Please stay up to date by reading my blog on my website: www.jhendersonbooks.com. I usually post once a month about upcoming events. You can also stay in the loop by subscribing to my mailing list found on my website under the contact me tab.
Author Links: GoodReads | Bookbub | Website
Devin Skye wakes up 300 years after accidentally triggering a global nuclear disaster. Thrust into a harsh, post-apocalyptic landscape, he uncovers the truth about his father’s involvement in a dangerous military project: a floating tower occupied by genetically enhanced super soldiers that will be used to subjugate the remaining survivors. As Devin races to prevent its activation, he befriends the resilient villagers of Iron Cove and faces off against mutated creatures while battling his own demons. With each step forward, he unravels a complex web of sinister plots, mysterious technology, and ancient mysticism. When Devin learns of the three crystalline orbs needed to destroy the tower, he finds himself caught in a deadly race against time. As the clock ticks down, he must confront his past mistakes and make an impossible choice. Will he find redemption, or will his quest end in failure, dooming what remains of humanity?
The Legacy of a Fool is the stunning debut from author Justin Henderson. If you enjoy pulse-pounding action, complex moral quandaries, and vividly imagined futures, then you’ll be captivated by this thrilling tale of survival and redemption.
Cold Blooded
Cold Blooded by Rohan O’Duill transports readers to a vividly imagined future where corporate powers dominate the solar system, wielding unparalleled influence. At the heart of this dynamic setting is Mint, a skilled yet detached marine mech pilot. Once content as an instructor, she is thrust back into action, navigating the chaos of the “Cold Rushes.” Her journey takes an unexpected turn when she reunites with her former colleague, Bjorn—now a pirate—and his spirited daughter, Frida. Unexpectedly, Mint finds herself as Frida’s reluctant guardian, forcing her to balance survival, loyalty to her friend, and her obligations to her corporate overlords.
What sets Cold Blooded apart is its remarkable ability to function both as a prequel and as a self-contained narrative. Striking a delicate balance, the story seamlessly establishes a foundation for the larger series while delivering a complete and compelling tale in its own right. Far from feeling like a mere setup, the book captivates with dynamic characters, unpredictable plot twists, and gripping conflicts. O’Duill’s storytelling ensures that Cold Blooded stands firmly on its own, an achievement worthy of high praise. Equally impressive is the depth and intricacy of the book’s science fiction elements. The richly detailed futuristic worlds, advanced technologies, and innovative equipment are described with a precision that immerses the reader. Every aspect of this universe feels meticulously crafted, reflecting the author’s dedication to thoughtful world-building. The result is a setting that feels authentic and alive, adding a tangible sense of realism to the narrative.
Cold Blooded by Rohan O’Duill offers a thrilling blend of fast-paced action and intricate science fiction, making it an ideal pick for fans of the genre. Whether you’re new to O’Duill’s work or already familiar with his universe, this novel delivers an engaging and satisfying experience. Highly recommended for readers who crave immersive storytelling and high-stakes adventure.
Pages: 304 | ASIN : B0D9TY1V5N
Sins of the Saviors
Sins of the Saviors is a thought-provoking dystopian novel that follows Jane Veristo, a defiant and introspective protagonist grappling with the oppressive surveillance state of Goliath Network. Told through the framework of Jane’s journal entries, the story plunges readers into a bleak future where truth is a commodity, history is rewritten, and rebellion simmers under a suffocating blanket of propaganda. As Jane attempts to uncover the truth about her brother’s suspicious death and the sinister systems around her, her journey becomes a gripping tale of resistance and self-preservation.
One thing I really liked about this story was how personal and raw the writing felt. Jane’s voice is captivating—a blend of bitterness, longing, and weary determination that pulls you in. Her reflections on David’s orchestrated “sacrifice ceremony” were haunting. The contrast between her family’s raw grief and the mechanical, staged nature of the event was chilling. The way the Goliath Network erased her presence at the ceremony, editing her rebellion out of the official narrative, hit hard. It reminded me of how powerful institutions can rewrite reality itself.
Author TJ Relk’s portrayal of the Goliath Network is eerily vivid and inventive. The merit-based economy, where every aspect of life is determined by a fluctuating score, feels all too plausible. Jane’s demotion to a hoverbike after a failed protest over a “weather station” highlights the soul-crushing micromanagement of this society. That scene, where a smug bureaucrat silences Jane with falsified zoning documents, felt like a punch in the gut. It’s infuriating but also deeply compelling. The way truth is malleable under Goliath’s regime mirrors some unsettling trends in our current reliance on digital ecosystems.
However, it’s not all doom and gloom. Relk sprinkles in moments of connection and hope that provide relief amidst the despair. Jane’s relationship with Lily, a spirited teenager who refuses to submit to the lies, was a highlight for me. Lily’s defiance and belief in Jane’s fight reignited a spark of optimism, and I couldn’t help but cheer for both of them. These glimpses of humanity’s resilience are what kept me hooked. The flashbacks to Jane’s time with friends like Caleb also added layers of complexity, showing how even the well-meaning can be complicit in oppressive systems.
I’d recommend Sins of the Saviors to anyone who enjoys dystopian tales that cut close to home, like 1984 or The Handmaid’s Tale. It’s perfect for readers who appreciate flawed, complex characters and morally murky worlds. Be prepared to get angry, sad, and inspired—all in one sitting.
Pages: 69 | ASIN: B0DP5P5P4J
Ashes of the City
Ashes of the City by Quinton Taylor-Garcia delivers a gripping tale set in the aftermath of an earthquake that leaves a group of high school students stranded in a shattered urban landscape. Maya, a compassionate leader, strives to bring unity, while Jace, a ruthless pragmatist, champions strength as the key to survival. Their opposing ideologies fracture the group, igniting tension over scarce resources. As aftershocks loom and destruction mounts, both leaders grapple with harrowing choices and the weight of their decisions.
This novel is a riveting work of modern dystopian fiction. From the opening sentence, the author’s evocative prose commands attention. Vivid descriptions transform the ruined city into a visceral, almost living presence. Each crumbling building and each tremor in the earth feels real, immersing the reader in a world teetering on the edge of collapse. The story doesn’t just depict survival; it mirrors the fragility of the modern world, asking readers to confront unsettling truths about humanity and resilience.
The characters shine as the heart of this story. Maya and Jace, polar opposites, embody two sides of survival in crisis. Maya’s warmth and hope resonate deeply, offering a vision of collective strength, while Jace’s unflinching pragmatism challenges notions of morality when survival is at stake. Their clash is riveting, not only as a battle for leadership but as a commentary on what it means to remain human amidst chaos. The raw authenticity of their internal struggles makes them relatable, their humanity laid bare in every decision, every moment of doubt.
Themes of leadership, morality, and sacrifice pulse through the pages, creating a story that is as thought-provoking as it is thrilling. The story moves with relentless energy, but it also takes moments to reflect, adding depth and nuance to the chaos. The contrast between destruction and the characters’ determination to survive is both haunting and inspiring.
Ashes of the City is an exploration of resilience, a challenge to consider how far we’ll go to endure, and a testament to the enduring power of hope. It’s a must-read for anyone drawn to dystopian stories.
Pages: 320 | ASIN : B0DK4397YD
Return of the Star Lords: A Dystopian Journey of Survival and Sacrifice
Return of the Star Lords takes us on a high-stakes, dystopian journey where survival and sacrifice paint the backdrop for young Kya and her sister Syla. Set in the grim city of Jensel, ruled by the cruel God-King and his oppressive priests, Kya is faced with impossible choices to protect her younger sister. The arrival of mysterious foreigners with advanced technology shifts the narrative, blending themes of hope and despair into a compelling tale of resilience and humanity.
I loved Gillies’ ability to immerse readers into Kya’s perspective. From the opening, her desperation and determination are palpable. I felt an aching sadness during the attic scene, where Kya wrestles with the weight of saving herself or her sister. The rawness of these moments grounds the story in realism, even as the plot introduces science fiction elements. Gillies doesn’t shy away from exploring difficult topics, and this emotional depth is a strength. The pacing picks up when Captain Scott and his enigmatic crew enter the picture, blending action and intrigue seamlessly. The ambush scene near Good Luck Plaza had me on edge. Kya’s quick thinking and the foreigners’ surprising strength create a thrilling turning point.
I appreciated how the strangers’ advanced technology is slowly revealed, avoiding a complete overshadowing of the human characters. The “Star Lords” and their connection to local myths added layers to the story, hinting at a much larger universe. This aspect was fascinating, though the narrative occasionally leaned heavily on exposition to explain the sci-fi elements.
The relationship between Kya and Syla is the beating heart of the book. Moments like Syla’s joy at receiving a cake from Madame Nela or the poignant reveal of her healed arm show the depth of their bond. The humor and warmth in these scenes provided much-needed relief, and they made me root for the sisters all the more. By the conclusion, I felt a genuine sense of triumph for Kya and Syla. The final scenes aboard the spaceship were not only stunning but also emotionally resonant. Watching Kya transition from survival mode to cautiously dreaming of a brighter future was deeply satisfying. I couldn’t help but cheer for her and Syla as they embraced the unknown, holding onto newfound hope.
This book is perfect for fans of dystopian dramas with a sci-fi twist. If you enjoy emotionally driven stories with a mix of heartache, action, and a glimmer of hope, Return of the Star Lords will grip you from start to finish.
Pilgrims
Pilgrims is a bold and complex journey into a near-future world on the brink of alien annihilation. Set against a backdrop of societal breakdown and moral ambiguity, M. R. Leonard weaves a tapestry of characters—some desperate, some heroic—grappling with the weight of their choices in a crumbling world. From Monsignor Innocenti’s heart-wrenching battle against killer robots in a Saudi hospital to Austin DeSantis’ spiral into moral despair in the face of Earth’s imminent doom, the novel intertwines deeply human struggles with high-stakes sci-fi elements.
I found the prologue absolutely magnetic. The sheer tension of Monsignor Innocenti’s showdown with the machines sets a visceral tone for the book. The imagery of him baptizing infants as a last-ditch act of spiritual salvation, despite the chaos and pain, stayed with me long after I turned the page. It was a stark reminder of humanity’s resilience even when hope seems like a cruel joke. That said, I did question the plausibility of the “halo of protection” concept, which felt at odds with the otherwise grounded desperation of the scenes. Still, it’s one of those bold narrative choices that you either embrace or not.
Austin’s arc was heartbreaking. His obsession with Aurelia, a figure as much fantasy as flesh, mirrors a society unraveling under the weight of unmet needs and crushing inevitability. His moral failings, especially his complicity in the old man’s death, are infuriating yet painfully human. Leonard excels here by forcing readers to confront the uncomfortable: What would we do when cornered? His choices are bleak, but they feel real. When Austin rationalized his inaction at the shop, my frustration bubbled over, but it made for compelling reading. I wanted to shake him, but I also understood him.
Leonard gives us fragments, government overreach, a collapsing economy tied to Fedcoin, and a global militarization effort to deter aliens. I wanted to dive deeper into the motivations of the aliens and the “Premise” and “Corollary,” which are mentioned often but remain opaque. That said, the story’s urgency and personal stakes kept me glued to the page, even when the larger context felt murky.
Pilgrims is a story that punches you in the gut with its grimness, yet it doesn’t wallow. Leonard forces his characters—and his readers—to confront some brutal truths about survival, morality, and what it means to be human. I’d recommend it to fans of dystopian novels who don’t shy away from the darker corners of the human condition.
Pages: 412 | ASIN: B0DKVHY2K5
Historically Proven Principles
Traitor’s Black Rose imagines a fractured 2088 America, where the President battles corruption and assassination attempts to save a nation teetering between collapse and unity. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
This is the third book that I have written; the first two books are part of a trilogy that Literary Titan has reviewed. I sincerely inspired to write dystopian books, and this endeavor has been an exceptional adventure and hobby. Regarding Traitor’s Black Rose, the current global divide and political divide in the United States inspired me to write this book. FYI, the fourth book that I am currently writing is the last book of the trilogy.
The narrative unfolds almost like a historical chronicle. Why did you choose this style, and how do you think it enhances the story’s themes?
I am a professional engineer by trade and a retired Combat Engineer officer; ironically, I enjoy studying history and philosophy. I believe that to understand our current situation in the US and the world, you must examine the past. Obviously, this fictional dystopian is set in the 2088 (the future). What we do today may lead to something that we did not desire. Too often, we tend to throw the baby out with the bathwater since many historical lessons are still generalizations, and many tend to think that exceptions to the rule are just as likely.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
One theme is to remind all that you must be aware that your ends and desires will not justify any means. We must remember that historically proven principles should not be discarded for power or one’s idealistic goal.
Do you see the story as a warning, a reflection, or perhaps a call to action for today’s readers?
I see this story as both a reflection and a warning. I demonstrate this by using quotes and Bible verses that express reflection and warning.
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LITERARY TITAN 