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How Societies Evolve Under Extreme Conditions
The Worlds of Origin explores 900,000 years of galactic history and takes readers on a journey through millennia of lore, from the rise and fall of the mighty Galactic Empire to the birth of the Origin Worlds and the looming apocalyptic event known as the Desolation.
What was the inspiration for the culture of your characters? Is it modeled after any particular society?
The culture of my characters draws inspiration from a mix of historical and imagined societies. While not modeled directly after any single culture, I was influenced by the complexity of real-world empires, like the Roman Empire or ancient China, where power was divided between ruling classes, religious institutions, and complex bureaucracies. I wanted to explore how societies evolve under extreme conditions, like the control of interstellar travel or the threat of a recurring catastrophe. Elements of hierarchy, ritual, and political intrigue found in various ancient civilizations shaped the worlds in my book, while the mysterious forces and long-lost knowledge gave me the freedom to craft something otherworldly. It’s a blend of familiar structures with a futuristic, fantastical twist.
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?
While the ending of my book may suggest the possibility of a continuation, I actually wrote it as a standalone story. The conclusion is meant to allow readers to imagine how things might play out beyond the final chapter. While it’s possible that I may write a sequel in the future, I don’t have a set timeline for it. For now, the story stands on its own, and I’m excited for readers to interpret the ending in their own way.
Author Links: Website | Book Review
On a remote world, the residents practice a form of magic that seems to defy the laws of science. But as the truth about this magic is revealed, it becomes clear that it’s part of an ancient plan to fight a relentless Enemy. With every twist, the boundaries between science and fantasy blur, challenging the crew’s understanding of reality. As secrets unravel, loyalties are tested, and the fate of the Galaxy hangs in the balance.
Spanning 900,000 years, this epic tale chronicles the rise and fall of the Galactic Empire, from the mysterious creation of the Origin Worlds to the devastating Desolation.
Excerpts from the Encyclopaedia Galactica
Origin Worlds (Galactic Term)
The Origin Worlds refer to four ancient planets, each containing portals that allow for instantaneous travel between them. Predating all known civilizations, these worlds are now controlled by the galaxy’s most powerful empires. Their true nature and purpose remain a mystery despite extensive study. Theories range from them being the key to the galaxy’s creation to remnants of a lost civilization. Highly coveted, the Origin Worlds are central to political and military power.
For other uses, see disambiguation.
Desolation (Galactic Phenomenon)
The Desolation is an enigmatic, galaxy-wide catastrophe that has erased entire civilizations from existence, leaving behind only barren, lifeless worlds known as Desolation Worlds. Little is known about the true cause or nature of the event, but it is marked by sudden and widespread destruction, often with no survivors or clear signs of conflict. The Desolation is mentioned in various ancient texts and prophecies, alluding to a powerful force beyond understanding. Its origins remain one of the galaxy’s greatest mysteries, with many believing it to be an inevitable fate awaiting all advanced civilizations.
The Worlds of Origin
The Worlds of Origin by D. Dan Becheru is an ambitious and captivating debut novel that blends epic science fiction with elements of fantasy. Spanning a staggering 900,000 years of galactic history, this sweeping tale takes readers on a journey through millennia of lore, from the rise and fall of the mighty Galactic Empire to the birth of the Origin Worlds and the looming apocalyptic event known as the Desolation.
While the sheer scope of the novel might sound overwhelming, that’s part of what makes The Worlds of Origin such a unique and compelling read. Set in a galaxy where faster-than-light (FTL) travel is tightly controlled by a powerful Church, and political power is divided among vast empires, the story unfolds through multiple narratives, each with its own intricate web of events. The overarching conflict centers on those fighting to save the galaxy from destruction and others determined to see the Desolation, an ancient and devastating prophecy, fulfilled.
Given the novel’s immense time span and complexity, Becheru wisely structures the story as a series of interwoven narratives, almost like short stories, that contribute to the broader, overarching plot. This approach not only makes the massive timeline more digestible but also keeps the reader engaged with the twists and turns that define each storyline. What could easily have been overwhelming is instead an engrossing, multifaceted epic that feels approachable without losing its depth.
The world-building in The Worlds of Origin is nothing short of extraordinary. Becheru has created a vast, intricately detailed galaxy that feels both lived-in and expansive, full of history, conflict, and wonder. What’s even more impressive is how seamlessly this rich lore is introduced. There are no overwhelming exposition dumps. Instead, the world-building is woven organically into the story, offering just enough information to keep readers immersed without bogging them down in unnecessary detail.
Character development is another highlight of the novel. Becheru sidesteps traditional sci-fi clichés, giving his characters depth and complexity. Many of the key players have their own hidden agendas, which keeps the reader on edge. Trust is a rare commodity in this galaxy, and betrayals lurk around every corner. This uncertainty adds an extra layer of tension and excitement, as the twists in relationships often come as a genuine surprise.
While the storytelling and world-building are top-tier, I felt that the prose can feel uneven at times, and some of the dialogue comes across as a bit stiff. For readers who prioritize story and immersion over technical perfection, this won’t detract much from the overall experience.
The Worlds of Origin is a remarkable achievement. Whether you’re a seasoned sci-fi reader or new to the genre, this novel’s blend of epic action, intricate political intrigue, and thought-provoking philosophy offers an engaging and rewarding experience.
Pages: 386 | ASIN : B0DCCC7YX1
My First Book
Blood Fortune follows five individuals who discover a 500-year-old treasure in a West Texas cave putting their lives in grave danger. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
It started with the thought of Aztec gold. I liked the idea that if the Spanish never found much gold, maybe it was because it had already been moved. The Aztec storyline was originally just intended to be the opening chapter of the book. It flowed so easily, and I really enjoyed writing it, so I ending up going with the dual timelines.
Your novel is a genre-crossing with elements of Science Fiction, Historical Fiction, suspense, and adventure as well. Did you start writing with this in mind, or did this happen organically as you were writing?
I didn’t start with it in mind. I was inexperienced, and didn’t know any better! I was planning more of an action story. Then it needed the historical fiction elements with the Aztecs. I was pretty far into a draft, when I realized it would be more exciting if the second timeline was in the future. The odds of finding the gold with no consequences seemed to drop significantly in the future that I described. This opened up a lot of Science Fiction possibilities. It was my first book, and I didn’t know how difficult crossing genres could be.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
I suppose that the Aztec’s complete devotion to a cause, was an important one for me. Time marches forward, no matter who you are. No matter when you are. They took something to protect, something so important to their people. This did take much more research than I had any idea that it would, but it was well worth it.
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?
My next book follows a few of the characters from Blood Fortune in the years that follow. I wouldn’t say that it’s a direct sequel, but it would be considered the next in a series. I’m planning to launch the next book in May, 2024.
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Website
A year before the Spanish set foot on the Yucatán shores, a handful of the strongest Aztec were selected for an important mission. Led by their greatest warrior, they raced to escape with the empire’s gold. Over five hundred years later, the treasure they’d sworn to protect is found in a West Texas cave, putting anyone near it at great risk.
In the future, no communications are private from the National Security Agency. A group of five must navigate the dangers that follow their discovery; the wrath of a biker gang, hellbent on revenge. A shadow government, wielding the power of highly trained soldiers and the unrelenting artificial intelligence of the world’s smartest computer.
Blood Fortune
In Blood Fortune, author Brock Rivers masterfully combines the realms of science and historical fiction, resulting in a captivating and engrossing tale. This mesmerizing fusion takes readers on an exhilarating journey through both time and space, unveiling a narrative that is as thrilling as it is thought-provoking.
Set against the backdrop of a time preceding the arrival of Spanish conquerors on the Yucatán shores, the story centers around a select group of formidable Aztec warriors who embark on a momentous mission. Led by their greatest warrior, Zolin, these individuals race against all odds to safeguard the empire’s most prized treasure. Fast forward five centuries, and the long-lost treasure resurfaces in a remote cave located in West Texas. This discovery unwittingly places anyone who dares approach it in grave danger.
In a future where privacy is nothing more than a distant memory, the ever-watchful presence of the National Security Agency looms large, creating an atmosphere of pervasive surveillance. Amidst this surveillance state, an unlikely group of five individuals finds themselves thrust into a perilous predicament. As they navigate the treacherous aftermath of their discovery, they become the prime targets of a relentless biker gang hellbent on exacting revenge. Furthermore, they encounter a shadow government armed with highly trained soldiers and the unrivaled power of the world’s most advanced artificial intelligence.
The seamless integration of historical elements with science fiction constructs a mesmerizing story of intrigue and suspense. Rivers’ storytelling prowess ensures that the narrative unfurls with meticulous precision, keeping readers perpetually on the edge of their seats. The carefully woven plot seamlessly merges the past and the future, presenting a cohesive continuum that immerses readers in a simultaneously recognizable and fantastical world.
Blood Fortune thrives on its dynamic blend of action, suspense, and historical resonance, delivering an exhilarating reading experience. The characters within the story are vividly portrayed, and their motivations and journeys are intensely explored, thus forging a powerful emotional connection between readers and the story. Rivers’ remarkable ability to conjure vivid imagery, whether in the suffocating confines of a clandestine facility or amidst the ethereal beauty of Enceladus, is a testament to the author’s extraordinary descriptive prowess.
With its gripping narrative and skillful portrayal of history and speculative fiction, Blood Fortune is a compelling page-turner offering an immersive reading experience. Enthusiasts of thrilling adventures, intricately plotted narratives, and imaginative storytelling will undoubtedly find themselves captivated by the sheer brilliance of this book.
Pages: 303 | ASIN : B0C6J83BRR
LITERARY TITAN 