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Not All Villains are Evil
Light in the Abyss follows the crew of a space frigate who are on a mission to recover a stolen artifact from an alien. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I took my inspiration from the broad tradition of swashbuckling adventure, where the “villain” isn’t necessarily evil, but merely working in opposition to the establishment – as if our heroes were fighting Robin Hood or Aladdin.
I liked the idea of a mastermind thief whom our heroes must match their wits against as much as their swords or cannons – but the thief is also from another species, so there’s a whole new level of complexity. The mission itself is straight-forward: recover the stolen artifact. But having an intelligent, cunning, alien adversary allows for many twists and turns.
There was a lot of time spent crafting the character traits in this novel. What was the most important factor for you to get right in your characters?
My characters are very important to me, so my immediate instinct is to answer “everything”. But kidding aside, what I really want to aim for in my characters is balance. The swashbuckling genre has a long history of heroic men and damsels in distress, and I want to ensure that none of my characters fall into these stereotypes. The men are still heroic, but they’re also kind, thoughtful and mostly humble. The women occasionally still need rescuing, but they’re all strong, intelligent, brave and have agency. I respect each one of my characters and I want to give them, in their own way, the best chance to shine.
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 with the real scientific idea of solar sails, whereby we could propel spaceships toward the outer planets by riding on the “solar wind” that pushes away from the sun. But I realized immediately that this wouldn’t be very interesting in a solar system like ours, where the solar wind only flows in one direction (outward) so I imagined what it might be like in a dense star cluster. All the solar winds from the tightly packed suns would interact with each other, creating currents, storms, etc., which our heroes would need complex sailing ships to navigate. From there I started to imagine a society where civilization was focused in toward the densely packed stars of the Hub, but out in the sparser stars of the Halo, adventure awaits.
It was fun to use the 18th century Age of Sail motif as a starting point for my world-building, although I knew immediately that the racism and sexism of those days had no place in my writing. Introducing the tension between the nobles and commoners helped to fuel early sources of conflict, and having intelligent alien species allowed for the existential threat needed to fuel the need for a powerful space navy.
What will the next book in that series be about, and when will it be published?
The next book in the series is going to bring the Sectoid military threat back to the foreground, and it’s also going to delve deeper into the politics of the aristocracy. And for fans of Sublieutenant Charlotte Brown, she’s going to have a chance to shine.
The release date hasn’t been set yet, but I’ve heard it’s going to be late 2025. I have about 10,000 words downrange so far – I guess I better get cracking.
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As Daring finds itself in a desperate struggle against rogue forces, Liam and Amelia must discern the true motivation of their adversaries before the ship, its crew and their relationship get torn apart forever.
Spiritual Pursuit
In Dream Fisher, a man disenchanted with day-to-day life embarks on a life-changing journey after meeting a wanderer capable of navigating dreams. Where did the idea for this story come from?
From an early age, I had the curious notion that there must be something akin to magic that binds our reality. This nagging inquiry followed me into young adulthood, where I began to study spiritual philosophy with a keen interest in the intersection between metaphysical philosophy and science.
In recent years, the field of metaphysics has undergone a significant expansion, offering a wealth of information on personal development, psychology, past lives, near-death experiences, and more. I wanted to transition some of the concepts being examined philosophically and scientifically and put them into a dramatic story so the ideas could come to life in a less “clinical” context. I wanted to express these phenomena as woven into the fabric of our everyday life, echoing the essence of the Magical Realism genre.
What was your approach to writing the interactions between Jason and Loansome?
I have a thirty-year-plus connection to the Native American community, where I have experienced the lack of cultural conflicts that persist following the European domination of the West.
The interactions between Jason and Loansome reflect the cultural divide between Americans and First Nations People. There is a lack of awareness ever-present in Americans’ relationships with people who have suffered generations of abuse. And yet, many Natives still have the compassion to help the ones most responsible for global imbalance, as their wisdom to do so is inextricably embedded in their culture.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
The power of humanity to evolve through compassion, creative visualization, and dreams. The enormous impact that the formation of America had on hundreds of millions of First Nations people in the West. The egoic motivation that is often found within spiritual pursuit. And the power of love to heal all things — across an experience we call time — even into the afterlife.
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?
I am so grateful that this story has been well-received. Thank you! Yes, a second book is in the making. All the characters return—with some new ones. The next segment of the Dream Fisher will be titled The Weight of Wanting. I have started the plot and character developments, roughed out numerous scenes, and hope to start writing in the fall of 2024. In my opinion, the story is stacking up to be better than the first.
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Jason Sanders is starved for meaning in his daily grind and tedious career. A chance encounter with a desert vagabond named Loansome ignites intrigue when the strange man claims he can navigate people’s dreams.
Desperate to break free from his empty existence, Sanders plunges into the mechanics of dream travel, where he finds himself on the edge of an eight-thousand-foot cliff, “This is where you cross the bridge into dreams. You have to wake up over there,” Loansome says, pointing toward another mesa two miles away.
Jason’s leap sends him hurdling into a realm where reality itself becomes questionable. Words emerge within the growl of a mountain lion, an unassuming woman speaks to him from the future, and he uncovers a hidden door in his childhood home.
Amid a whirlwind of surreal events that span past, present, and future, unforeseen connections emerge, revealing genuine meaning within the chaos of modern existence.
Dream Fisher seizes the imagination with its fusion of magic, suspense, and outrageous scenes while casting a scornful glare at society’s superficial facade. Massive twists trigger hidden connections within a vivid landscape of dreams.
Biting Sarcasm
In James Bong – Agent Of Anarchy, a former M16 spy and his team embark on high-stakes missions charged with espionage, controversy, and infused with humor. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I’ve been a fan of the James Bond franchise for a long time. One thing I notice with mainstream heroes in big publications and Hollywood movies is that the “good guys” almost always work for the state and ultimately have good intentions. I love a good parody, so I thought it would be interesting to “flip the script,” so to speak. Bong is a freelancer, and the villains are affiliated with various global institutions.
Your novel is filled with memorable characters. What was your favorite character to write for and why?
That’s a great question. I’d have to say the nerdy hacker K. I’m a little bit of a nerd, love my coffee, and often use biting sarcasm, just like him. There’s a lot of me in that character. Actually, we’re almost identical, except the tech genius part.
What is it that draws you to writing satire?
I’ve always been a fan of absurdist comedy. I grew up with Monty Python, Mel Brooks, and Adam Sandler. The thing I really like about satire is that it is funny and absurd, but also carries a message. When I look at the society we live in, there’s certainly no shortage of material for satire. Satire makes people laugh, but also carries powerful messages that can reach people. It’s an important and often overlooked medium of influence.
What is the next book that you are working on and when will it be available?
To be perfectly honest, I’ve been so busy trying to promote the work I’ve already published, that I haven’t had much time to write recently. One idea I’ve been kicking around, though, is an absurdist time travel murder mystery. I’ve also thought about writing a sixth book for The Evolution Saga series.
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This gripping tale combines the best elements of espionage, humor, and heart-pounding action for an unforgettable reading experience.
Follow the daring exploits of James Bong, a former MI6 spy turned renegade, as he defies authority and takes on daring missions alongside his trusty team. With the brilliant hacker K, the fiery blogger Miss Moneybit, and the mysterious AI Symphy at his side, Bong navigates a world of danger and intrigue, leaving a trail of laughter in his wake.
But as Bong and his team push the limits of what’s possible, they soon find themselves pursued by their former employers, determined to put an end to their rebellious antics. Will Bong outsmart his adversaries and emerge victorious, or will he be caught in a web of deceit and betrayal?
Packed with cutting-edge technology, pulse-pounding suspense, and laugh-out-loud humor, “James Bong” is a must-read for fans of sci-fi adventure and spy thrillers alike.
Don’t miss out on the ride of a lifetime – grab your copy today and join Bong on his quest for freedom and justice!
Dream Fisher
Dream Fisher, by Pete Beebe, is an engrossing metaphysical adventure novel that explores the boundaries between reality and dreams. The story centers on Jason Sanders, a man disillusioned with the monotony of his everyday life. His encounter with Loansome, a mysterious wanderer who can navigate dreams, kicks off a surreal adventure and transformative journey. Throughout this journey, Jason faces various challenges, such as fighting a mountain lion and forming unexpected connections, ultimately leading him to discover profound truths and a renewed sense of purpose.
Beebe is a master of the metaphysical genre. The vivid description of the setting creates striking imagery that further draws readers into an engaging plot. A standout quality of the author’s writing is the philosophical depth given to the character’s development. From the start, readers are drawn into a world where the lines between the tangible and the imagined are beautifully blurred. Jason’s evolution from a detached observer of life to someone profoundly invested in making a difference highlights the story’s exploration of self-discovery and existential yearning. The relationship between Jason and Loansome is not only a driving force in the plot but also serves as a vehicle for exploring deeper truths about human connection and the nature of dreams. “In dream-time, we see what we want to see. It’s not really what we want…It’s what our souls want so we can be healed…”
Dream Fisher prompts readers to reflect on their own lives and the essence of reality itself. The dream sequences are particularly noteworthy, each crafted with a richness that makes them feel both otherworldly and intimately familiar. This novel is a must-read for those seeking an adventure within their own consciousness. It is not just a story but an invitation to look beyond the surface of our daily lives and explore the deeper currents that shape our reality. Highly recommended.
Pages: 222 | ASIN : B0D2VFZKVN
James Bong – Agent Of Anarchy
Todd Borho’s James Bong: Agent of Anarchy is a wild and hilarious ride that gleefully parodies the iconic James Bond series. Set in 2028, the novel follows James Bong, a former MI6 operative turned anarchist, as he navigates a world of absurdity, technology, and subversion. Joined by the quirky hacker K and the audacious blogger Miss Moneybit, Bong embarks on escapades that involve high-speed chases, liberating a controversial figure, and thwarting oppressive institutions, all while making snarky remarks and taking jabs at the state.
The story kicks off with a bang as Bong speeds down a desert highway in a futuristic, 3D-printed car, evading a cop and setting the tone for a story packed with action and satire. Borho blends elements of spy fiction with anarchist philosophy, creating a protagonist who is as much about sticking it to the man as he is about outmaneuvering his enemies. The plot is a series of episodic adventures, each more outrageous than the last, from freeing Ross Mulbricht from a high-security prison to fending off IRS agents from seizing an old couple’s farm. The pacing is brisk, ensuring there’s never a dull moment, though, at times, it feels almost too frenetic, with scenes transitioning quickly without allowing much depth.
Borho’s characters are vibrant and distinctive, often exaggerated for comedic effect. James Bong, with his steely eyes and sarcastic demeanor, is a delightfully subversive hero who challenges traditional notions of the suave spy. K, the nerdy anarchist hacker, provides comic relief with his over-the-top tech solutions and banter. Miss Moneybit adds a layer of feistiness and journalistic tenacity, though her motivations sometimes feel less developed compared to Bong’s clear disdain for authority. General Small and Sir Hugo Trax, the bumbling antagonists, are portrayed with a satirical brush, highlighting the incompetence of those in power. The interplay between these characters is a highlight of the book, delivering laugh-out-loud moments and sharp social commentary.
Borho’s writing is sharp, witty, and filled with clever references to the Bond franchise and contemporary issues. The dialogue crackles with humor, especially in Bong’s exchanges with K and the villains. Scenes like Bong evading a cop while trading quips with K or the anarchic raid on the Kushy Budz dispensary showcase Borho’s talent for blending action with humor. The satire is biting, targeting everything from government overreach to corporate hypocrisy.
James Bong: Agent of Anarchy is a must-read for fans of satire, action-comedy, and anyone who enjoys a good parody. Borho’s irreverent take on the spy genre and his critique of societal norms make for a refreshing and entertaining read. This book is particularly well-suited for readers who appreciate a mix of humor and action and those who enjoy stories that challenge conventional heroes with a dose of anarchist philosophy.
Pages: 302 | ASIN : B0D1NKJVCC
Light in the Abyss
Light in the Abyss, the third installment in Bennett R. Coles’ Blackwood and Virtue series, takes readers on a thrilling journey aboard the spacefaring frigate Daring and her escort ship Freedom. The narrative centers on Lord Commander Liam Blackwood and Quartermaster Amelia Virtue as they embark on a mission to recover a stolen artifact from an alien theropod named Shordar, all while navigating a romance complicated by their differing ranks and societal positions.
Though this novel is part of a series, it stands alone effectively, with only minimal references to previous events. While familiarity with earlier books may enhance understanding of the universe Coles has crafted, new readers will find Light in the Abyss approachable and engaging. The plot focuses primarily on the crew’s confrontation with Shordar and the complexities of interstellar politics, with tantalizing mentions of other alien species. One of the novel’s most refreshing elements is its distinctive setting: spacefaring ships reminiscent of traditional sailing vessels. This unique motif lends the story a sense of realism, grounding the science fiction elements in a familiar framework.
The titles and roles aboard the ships echo historical naval traditions, adding depth to the world-building. The portrayal of social politics within the human empire further enriches the narrative, highlighting the struggles of the characters against rigid social structures.
At the heart of the story is the pursuit of a stolen artifact known as the suncatcher, which serves primarily as a plot device to drive character development. Blackwood and Virtue’s personal and professional challenges, especially their struggle against the societal constraints of their empire, are poignantly depicted. Coles excels in portraying their emotional turmoil, making their journey as compelling as the external conflict with Shordar.
Light in the Abyss delivers a captivating blend of space adventure and character-driven drama. Bennett R. Coles skillfully balances action and emotion, creating a rich, immersive experience for readers, whether they are long-time fans of the series or newcomers.
Pages: 435 | ASIN : B0D1ZY4MP5
A Warped Sensibility
In Terrestrial Passions, an unsuspecting widow finds her life transformed by the extraterrestrial who arrives in her orchard via starship. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I think that I’ve learned an important lesson writing this book. You see, it’s a satire. If you look at the reader reviews, about half of the readers are laughing their pants off, get the offbeat literary humor, and understand that all the detailed historical background is being used in the service of its outrageous, surreal humor. The other half are trying to read it in romance genre terms, and therefore thinking that it’s off-key. The lesson: committed Regency romance fans take their genre rather seriously and don’t laugh at it; science fiction fans, on the other hand, are more likely to get a kick out of it. The result: a large number of 5-star reviews from the Hitchhiker’s Guide, Life of Brian, and Black Adder crowd, plus Lit Majors who have spent many a long night with Jane Austen and feel liberated by being able to laugh…and bewildered negatives from those expecting a serious romance with a tinge of spice. Even Literary Titan’s own reviewer, who did an admirable job analysing the book’s historical accuracies, never mentioned that it’s funny – while some other reviewers, the humor is ALL they talk about.
This is on me, not on the readers. On the way the book is marketed and packaged. I’ll have to tweak the presentation so it reaches its intended audience I think.
My inspiration…yes, indeed, it comes from having read all six Jane Austen novels in school, in England. Loved them. But her early novel Northanger Abbey is a bit different…you could see her going the way of the wild, satirical fantasy adventure rather than the way she ended up being best known for. It’s this playful version of Jane that inspires this book (with a bunch of Dickens tropes thrown in). Then…
I was at Cambridge the same years as Douglas Adams. This book, in a sense, comes from a similar mental place…a warped sensibility…highly intellectual yet sardonically detached. It’s what Americans call “British humor,” I think. An odd thing since according to the Library of Congress, my works are classified as “fiction, American.” This is what you get for growing up in too many countries.
What was your approach to writing the interactions between your characters?
No matter how outlandish, as far as the characters are concerned, it’s really happening. That’s really the only to make a story this weird be believable.
Within this book, you flawlessly blend historical fiction and science fiction. It takes exceptional talent to blend the two genres. How did you go about blending the two genres without disrupting the story?
They are the two genres that have most influenced me since childhood, and I have done several quite serious stories set in the past with fantasy elements, like my multiple award-winning werewolf novel Moon Dance. When it comes to science fiction, however, I can’t seem to escape “comedy.” My Hugo-nominated Aquila series is about the Roman conquest of America, but it’s essentially a laugh-a-minute romp.
What is the next book you are working on, and when will it be available?
I am finishing the third volume of my Delicatus trilogy — historical fiction which isn’t comedic at all (despite some arch dialogue at times), and starting another trilogy, the Yrth series, for new New York publisher Brazen House.
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A rollicking satire that blends the world of Jane Austen with the sci-fi universes of E.T. and The Day the Earth Stood Still by World Fantasy Award-winning author S.P. Somtow, this story has been a top faved ongoing serial in Amazon Vella.
Tales From An Odd Mind
Tales From an Odd Mind is a collection of somewhat strange short stories and poems that may seem to have little in common at a glance. Still, on deeper examination, they explore the same overarching theme of death and present an emotional portrait of humanity in all its effervescent diversity. The author chooses to write anonymously, under the name of ‘Nom D Plume,’ literally meaning pseudonym or pen name, but is known to firmly deny their works from having any autobiographical elements. So, it is interesting to note how personal and intimate each character appears to be, with detailed habits and traits established well within the short stories despite their brevity.
The most attractive feature of these stories is their unpredictability. Every dialogue or plot detail gives the illusion of leading us somewhere, only to surprise us with a sudden turn of events that is totally unanticipated by the reader. In the first story, for instance, we never expect the introduction of a new character towards the end of the story, but what makes it even more intriguing is how the ultimate effect of the story is never compromised. This deliberate way of an absence of foreshadowing gives the pieces their distinctive mysterious, and enigmatic nature.
However, as a reader, we are often left wanting more. Each story begins with a lot of promise and then collapses in on itself. Although deliberate on the author’s part, one must admit that the stories seem a little incomplete, given their abrupt endings. Are they written only as a means to an end, experimentation with the form of writing, with no interest whatsoever in the several different character developments that take place? Do they simply follow a preordained series of steps that build up with no goal to reach and no message to be delivered?
Perhaps, that is where the beauty lies, in trying to find meaning where there might not be any. Particularly poignant to this context is the back-and-forth dialogue between origin and dandelion; we struggle to understand the depth of their conversation, which is peculiarly reminiscent of pre-programmed responses of a chatbot or AI entity. Dabbling with various genres, this collection has some really powerful and compelling narratives. Recommended for all those who like reading fantasy, science fiction, or tales of reunion beyond death.
Pages: 148 | ASIN : B08CZSX412
LITERARY TITAN 