Blog Archives
The Conscious Virus
The Conscious Virus, by Miki Mitayn, defies easy categorization. Part sci-fi, part medical drama, it blends elements from different genres into a compelling narrative that challenges, yet deeply engages, the reader. At its core lies the unique relationship between Nerida and Mari, two women traveling through the desolate Australian outback, tasked with confronting a conscious virus—a threat unlike anything humanity has ever seen.
Nerida, a doctor and scientist, is driven by her desire to help the scattered communities she encounters. Yet her approach to saving lives is far from conventional. Mari, her partner, claims to communicate with disembodied spirits, something Nerida can’t rationalize but is forced to accept after undeniable proof. Their love is undeniable, yet their dynamic is fraught with tension—Nerida’s logical mind often clashes with Mari’s shamanistic beliefs. Together, they form an uneasy partnership, one that might hold the key to stopping a virus that’s not only intelligent but also seemingly conscious.
Mitayn crafts a narrative that explores not just the physical threat posed by this virus but also deeper, more complex themes—queer relationships, spirituality, and humanity’s capacity for self-destruction. The novel demands focus, especially when it delves into its pseudo-metaphysical moments, but the emotional anchor of Nerida and Mari’s relationship keeps readers grounded. Nerida, who sees herself as a savior of the communities she visits, struggles with Mari’s unconventional methods, yet their bond grows as the reality of their situation becomes undeniable.
The virus they face is terrifying, not just because it threatens humanity, but because it forces the women to confront the deeper question of whether humanity is even worth saving. Mitayn excels at creating a world that feels both familiar and unsettling. The stakes are high—not just for the survival of the human race but for Nerida and Mari’s relationship. The conscious virus looms as an insidious presence, but in many ways, it serves as a metaphor for any existential threat that could tear apart an unconventional love. Amid a hostile world, sometimes the only thing that sustains us is our connection to the people we care about most.
The Conscious Virus is an intricate, thought-provoking read. Its blend of genres creates a tapestry of ideas that can be challenging, but the depth of emotion and humanity at its heart make it an eminently rewarding experience. For readers who enjoy stories that push boundaries while exploring the raw, often painful nature of love and survival, this novel is not to be missed.
Pages: 478 | ASIN : B098X1SXZ4
A Fantasy Memoir
The Dreamtidings of a Disgruntled Starbeing follows a spirited 13-year-old girl who lives with her dysfunctional family: a narcissistic mother, a psychopathic brother, and a distant father, leading her to find solace in her celestial daydreams and embark on a journey of self-discovery. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
To be honest, if there was a genre called Fantasy Memoir, I’d say this story would fall into that as, even though the story is fictitious, it holds many truths from my childhood. Growing up, I needed to find my own supportnet and, like Klara, I used my mind and my perspective to change my experience. In fact, it took me close to fifteen years to finish this novel as I was determined not to share it until I had found a way to portray the story with warmth and humor, while also showing a way forward for when we deal with challenging relationships. (Which I suspect most of us seek to do.)
That said, Klara’s story is also different from mine in many ways. Rani, for instance, is someone I wish I had met as a child, as is her uncle. The three belief systems–Quakerism, Hinduism, and Q’ero Shamanism–I came across later in life, however, I decided to include them as they are belief systems that don’t tell us what to believe, but how to find our own inner truth, which appeals to me.
What were some of the emotional and moral guidelines you followed when developing your characters?
That’s an interesting question. I’d say I wanted to portray the characters without judgment, however, as the story needed an antagonist, and as Klara was to have emotional growth, this may not become clear until the very end.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
Oneness, that’s the first thing that comes to mind. Oneness, not only in the way we are all connected as people, but the way we are connected to nature and to the Earth and Cosmos as well.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when can your fans expect it to be out?
As much as I’ve enjoyed my connection with all the people who’ve connected with Klara, my present focus is to reach out to children. Besides writing I’ve had extensive experience with art and illustration and a long dream of mine has been to write and illustrate children’s books. Now, retired, I’m grateful to finally have the time and the space to pursue this dream. To follow my progress, please visit my Instagram account.
Author Links: GoodReads | Instagram | Facebook | Website
Precocious 13-year-old Klara Tippins lives in a refurbished convent in upstate New York with her unwholesome family; a narcissistic mother, a psychopathic brother, and a distant father.
It sounds dire, yes, but this is Klara, a starbeing from a distant star, and she has friends in high places; her starfamily none the less, who give her guidance in her dreams. At least that’s what she likes to think, though, if she’s to be honest, she doesn’t remember much when she wakes up.
As the story moves, three belief systems are brought into Klara’s path: Quakerism, which leads to other people, Q’ero Shamanism which connects her with nature, and Hinduism which provides an understanding of the world and her place in it.
A heartfelt novel about the resilience and determination needed to retain a sense of self when it’s being undermined from the very start. For Klara, it was a matter of reaching beyond her circumstances so that, ultimately, she could reach within herself.
The Quantum Gate
The Quantum Gate by Bill Combs is a richly layered blend of speculative science fiction, metaphysical intrigue, and family drama. The novel follows Ethan Cross, a disgraced physicist whose theories about consciousness and quantum mechanics have cast him out of academia. After receiving a mysterious letter from a presumed-dead mentor and a mystical compass pointing to Egypt, Ethan sets out to uncover the truth behind the fabled Hall of Records, a legendary archive of human knowledge hidden beneath the sands. Alongside him is his estranged daughter Sofi, a staunch rationalist and astrophysicist, whose journey becomes as much about reconciling with her father as it is about the greater cosmic mystery unfolding around them. As ancient secrets clash with shadowy forces, the novel builds toward a confrontation not just between characters, but between faith and reason, memory and truth.
Reading this book felt like falling into a dream that’s just real enough to unsettle you. Combs writes with a cinematic flair; the imagery of Cairo’s sunbaked streets, flickering candlelit archives, and high-stakes archaeological catacombs are vivid and haunting. The characters, especially Ethan and Sofi, are relatable, flawed, conflicted, and driven by wounds that feel real. I appreciated how the novel didn’t rush. It took its time to steep in emotion and doubt, letting revelations come like whispers instead of shouts. There’s a beautiful sadness that runs through the pages, especially in the echoes of lost love and fractured family. That emotional weight gives the high-concept science-fiction backbone a surprising intimacy.
There are moments where the dialogue leans into explanation-heavy exchanges, and some plot turns felt more told than shown. But even so, I never felt like I was slogging. The writing has heart. It feels personal, like a story the author has lived in for a long time. And that makes all the difference.
I would recommend The Quantum Gate to readers who love a thoughtful, emotional dive into mystery and mysticism, especially fans of Dan Brown, Carlos Ruiz Zafón, or those who enjoy science fiction that dares to ask big questions about consciousness, destiny, and the human soul. It’s for anyone who’s ever lost someone and wondered if maybe there’s a hidden truth behind the veil of what we call reality. If you’re open to stories that blend science, spirit, and sorrow, this one will be a great book for you.
Pages: 290 | ASIN : B0F2JBYH5Y
Of Love and Peace
Of Love & Peace is a heartfelt and fast-paced novella that continues the story from the Light Passers Chronicles series, weaving a powerful tale of friendship, spiritual strength, and hope amid the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Set primarily in Gaza and Jerusalem, the book follows young characters like Liyah, Esty, and Ahmad—teenagers from opposing sides of the conflict—who work together, sometimes mystically, to resist violence and spread compassion. Through shifting perspectives and emotional journeys, Campelia blends fantasy with the grim realities of war, anchored in a deep desire for healing and peace in one of the world’s most fraught regions.
Campelia doesn’t write from a distance—this feels lived-in and relatable. You can sense his pain, especially in the preface and author’s note. He lays bare his admiration for caregivers and his disdain for cruelty, threading these values through his young characters. The writing style is direct and intimate, sometimes lyrical, often urgent. The dialogue feels natural, even when it’s brushing up against heavy ideas like generational trauma, betrayal, and moral courage. There’s an aching truth in Liyah’s disillusionment and Esty’s fierce love for her friend Hanna, especially as both girls struggle to find light in the darkness. At times, the mystical elements—like the being Ooray—felt a bit out of place, but they also served as a poetic escape, a needed counterbalance to the brutal real-world setting.
There were moments when the pace raced ahead. Events can happen suddenly, characters jump into danger or revelations, and then the story resets. It gave the book an episodic feel, which occasionally pulled me out of the emotional core. Still, there’s something refreshingly honest about this book. It doesn’t pretend to have easy answers, and it never demonizes one side or another. Instead, Campelia calls out extremists, regardless of background, and invites readers to imagine a world where love and peace aren’t slogans but real, hard-won possibilities.
I would recommend Of Love & Peace to anyone who wants a story with heart, especially young adult readers or educators who are looking for literature that humanizes the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. If you’re drawn to novels that mix grit with grace, or if you believe that stories can be weapons for peace, this one’s for you. It won’t fix the world, but it might make you believe we still have a shot at something better.
Pages: 236 | ASIN : B0D84DKQ44
The Dreamtidings of a Disgruntled Starbeing: Life with a psychopathic brother
Embark upon a bewitching journey with The Dreamtidings of a Disgruntled Starbeing: Life with a psychopathic brother as it entices you into the rich, imaginative world of Klara Tippins, a spirited 13-year-old whose boundless imagination provides a gateway to ethereal adventures intertwined mysteriously with reality. Nestled in the quaint town of Pennington, New York, Klara navigates through life alongside her parents and brother, Drake, while often grappling with the sensation of being the peculiar member of her family. Her celestial daydreams, which seamlessly blend with the enigmatic realms, offer her not just solace but an unexpected tether to new dimensions.
Klara’s existence is a tapestry of enchanting dreams and intricate family dynamics that spirals into a newfound adventure with the arrival of an enigmatic neighbor, Rani. This mystical lady not only becomes Klara’s cherished confidante but also lights a spark, instigating a transformative journey that reshapes Klara’s perspectives and beliefs.
Author Linn Aspen weaves a lustrous fabric of engaging dialogues, strikingly endearing interactions with Klara’s beloved pet, and multifaceted relationships, particularly spotlighting the complex yet deeply affectionate bond with her brother. Amidst a milieu of vividly crafted characters, Rani emerges as an effulgent beacon, echoing through the pages with her nurturing aura, sensible wisdom, and daring spirit. As conduits to Klara’s evolution from an occasionally abrasive teenager to a being radiating kindness and compassion, Rani’s insights and friendship prove pivotal, reflecting a metamorphosis shaped by deep lessons of personal development.
This book gracefully intertwines young adult fiction with alluring elements of fantasy, spirituality, and celestial beings, concocting a riveting narrative that appeals significantly to those intrigued by these thematic dimensions. While Aspen’s occasional dalliance with esoteric language and the multifaceted plotline may pose a challenge to some readers, it undeniably proffers a singular, contemplative reading experience that lingers, prompting reflections and considerations well beyond its pages.
Intricate, evocative, and laced with a gentle mystery, The Dreamtidings of a Disgruntled Starbeing invites you on a thought-provoking expedition of imagination and profound growth, constituting an immersive read that is undeniably worthy of delving into. Join Klara on a path that transcends mere fiction, interweaving heart, spirit, and an echo of the cosmos within a delicately spun tale of self-discovery and friendship.
Pages: 346 | ASIN : B0BV16FMFT
An Old Soul: A Novel
An Old Soul follows Isaac André, a 25-year-old VHS store clerk and self-described “Chariot Conjurer” navigating the sticky summers of 1996 Southside Chicago. On the surface, it’s a coming-of-age story wrapped in nostalgia: payphones, VHS tapes, Walkmans, and the early days of the internet. But beneath that sepia-toned exterior is something more intricate, a meditation on time, synchronicity, personal loss, and the quiet search for meaning. The novel takes its time, steeped in the mundane beauty of everyday life, as Isaac’s path begins to twist subtly into something more surreal and philosophical.
What struck me most at the outset was the remarkable vividness of the world Hayden constructs. He doesn’t merely depict Chicago—he inhabits it on the page with remarkable sensory detail. The oppressive summer heat seems to radiate from the text, the sharp, familiar rhythm of barbershop banter resonates clearly, and the scent of Grandma’s buttery, oven-baked rolls practically rises from the pages. A particularly poignant scene early in the novel illustrates this immersive quality: Isaac, having just given away his last ten dollars to a desperate man named Oscar, watches his bus pull away. Briefly frustrated, he is soon met with the improbable arrival of a second bus, just in time. It’s a moment that encapsulates the novel’s deeper theme: that life moves in patterns, and meaning often emerges from small, unexpected alignments. Hayden scatters these moments with a natural ease, never feeling contrived or overly orchestrated.
What lingered with me most was the profound sense of loneliness that permeates Isaac’s character. He is not overtly depressed, but he exists slightly out of step with the world around him, a jazz enthusiast and Philip K. Dick devotee whose sensibilities rarely align with those of his peers. His coworker, Sharika, openly derides his interests, and while he outwardly dismisses her comments, the emotional impact is evident. There is a quiet, persistent yearning that runs beneath his interactions, visible in the way he observes a woman on the bus reading a strange, futuristic magazine, or in his reflections on his inability to dream. It is a subtle, aching melancholy. When he eventually forms a connection with someone online, an enigmatic user named BirdGurl9, the moment carries an immediate, almost electric emotional charge.
The novel is rich in detail, and while much of it contributes meaningfully to the atmosphere, certain scenes, such as the extended mall purchase and the somewhat tedious exchange with the salesman, might have benefited from a more concise approach. The deliberate pacing appears to be intentional. Isaac is not in a hurry; he moves through the world attentively, absorbing his surroundings as he seeks to understand both himself and the strange phenomena that continue to shape his reality, recurring coincidences, sensations of déjà vu, and city buses that seem to arrive precisely on cue. These elements do not overtly declare themselves as science fiction, but rather suggest something more subtle and unsettling. The quiet undercurrent of the uncanny is what makes them so compelling.
If you appreciate narratives that forgo conventional plot-driven momentum in favor of quiet introspection and emotional resonance, An Old Soul is well worth your time. Readers drawn to the contemplative pacing of Richard Linklater’s films, enthusiasts of classic science fiction, and those who have ever felt slightly out of step with the time or place they inhabit will likely find a deep connection here. I would particularly recommend this novel to those who favor richly developed characters, meaningful coincidences, and slow-burning explorations of existence and identity.
Pages: 233 | ASIN : B0F453QXNG
Manifesting Positive Outcomes
Interview
The Color of Dreams follows a struggling craftsman at a crossroads in life, facing challenges in his marriage, career, and sense of purpose, who encounters a mysterious “angel” that reawakens his belief in magic and possibility. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
For years, I have used the Law of Attraction in my life to help me manifest positive outcomes that help me and many others. I wanted to find a way to share these incredibly powerful laws with others, and it occurred to me that telling a story of a little angel—a magical being—would be the perfect vehicle to deliver this message. Over many years, I perfected the story and wrote (and rewrote) this book and it is now ready to help others manifest the life that has always called to them.
Was there anything from your own life that you put into the characters in your novel?
Absolutely! I don’t think any author has been able to keep pieces of himself from entering their work. This story takes place in 1988, and one of the things my main character, Ben, has to do is search for work, and he does this through looking through (and avoiding looking through) the classifieds ads in his weekly paper. I still remember having to do this over and over again myself over the years. It was a grind for sure! Another event was having to deal with an aging and beloved pet. There is a very emotional scene in the book that pained me to write, and I sourced my experience around losing my cat Starlite. In fact, the publishing imprint I created is called “Starlite Books,” in memory of her. There are many others, but I’ll save them for another day.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
Definitely the idea of the Source that pervades everything in the universe. Whether you call this Source God, or the Spirit of the Universe, or whatever else, there is a Presence that is always there, always available to draw strength and direction from. Another is the Law of Attraction, as mentioned earlier. A key component of this Law is the idea that “Thoughts are Things.” I learned decades ago that you can’t think one thing and create another, and that you have to change what you think about and dwell on before you can make any changes in your life. Another key theme is the idea of choosing faith instead of fear. Faith in your dream, in what truly inspires you, and then to dwell on the positive outcome and feelings of that coming true—rather than on what can go (or currently is going) wrong. We always have a choice about how to direct the creative energy of the Source, and we do that by first becoming aware of what we are constantly focusing on. Remember, thoughts are things. What are you thinking about right now?
What is the next book that you’re working on, and when can your fans expect it out?
Great question! I have two options: The first is to write a follow-up to The Color of Dreams, where the angel returns to Ben to teach him more lessons about life and letting go. I will write that book if this current book takes off and there is a demand for it. The other option, and one I’m leaning towards, is to write a book about my father and my grandfather’s experience in WWII. My family is from Warsaw, Poland, and they bore the brunt of the Nazi invasion in 1939. My father escaped to England and fought the war in the RAF, while the rest of my family remained in Warsaw and fought—and died—in the uprising in 1944. Some of my family members survived the war, and I’m currently doing research on what happened with them all. So, two possible books to write, and no timeline yet. BTW: If anyone is interested in life lessons, they should definitely check out my previous book: The Owner’s Manual to Life: How to Worry Less and Enjoy Life More. It offers 100 life quotes and short essays on how to get the most out of each day. People can also sign up to receive three free quotes every Wednesday by visiting my website and signing up!
Author Links: GoodReads | X | Facebook | Website
Ben Davidson’s life is unraveling. He loses his job unexpectedly, his family is slipping away, and the dream he once shared with his father is on the verge of collapse. Just when it seems like all hope is lost, a magical encounter with a glowing little angel reveals six powerful spiritual truths. Will it be enough to help Ben turn his life around before it’s too late?
Set in the late 1980s in the Pacific Northwest, The Color of Dreams weaves an enchanting tale of perseverance, love, and the mystical forces that shape our reality. As Ben embarks on a journey of self-discovery, the angel teaches him lessons that challenge his deepest fears and awaken his long-buried faith in himself.
In this life-affirming novel, readers will be drawn into Ben’s journey as he learns:
How dreams are born from a higher source
Why thoughts become reality
The power of choosing faith over fear
How to “Imagine better than the best you know”
How to trust the “why” of your dreams and let the “how” unfold
And most of all, how to help others by letting your inner light shine
Will Ben be able to apply these life-changing lessons to rebuild his broken life, rekindle his family’s love, and revive the dream he thought was lost? With heartfelt moments of inspiration and a touch of metaphysical magic, The Color of Dreams is a soul-stirring story that reminds us of the power of believing in ourselves and the beauty of second chances.
Perfect for fans of metaphysical fiction, spiritual transformation, and heartwarming stories of redemption, this novel will leave you inspired to chase your own dreams and embrace the possibilities of life’s unseen magic.
The Color Of Dreams
Michael Zajaczkowski’s The Color of Dreams unfolds as a poignant narrative of second chances, self-discovery, and the rekindling of lost ambitions. It follows Ben, a struggling craftsman who finds himself at a crossroads in life, facing challenges in his marriage, career, and sense of purpose. When a chance encounter with a mysterious “angel” reawakens his belief in magic and possibility, Ben embarks on a journey to reclaim his dreams, rebuild his relationships, and confront the obstacles that have kept him tethered to mediocrity. The book is set against the backdrop of the late 1980s in Tacoma, Washington, and offers a mix of domestic drama, emotional depth, and moments of magical realism.
One of the strengths of the book lies in its intimate portrayal of Ben’s struggles. Zajaczkowski writes with a natural, almost conversational tone that makes Ben’s internal conflicts feel raw and relatable. Ben’s frustration, Emily’s cautious pragmatism, and the unspoken emotions beneath their words are so well-rendered that I felt like an invisible participant in their conversations. The author’s ability to navigate complex marital dynamics adds depth to the story, grounding its more whimsical elements.
The book also excels in its descriptions of Ben’s craft and aspirations. His passion for woodworking, creating intricately detailed mailboxes, serves as a powerful metaphor for his desire to build something meaningful in his life. Scenes like Ben’s visit to the farmers’ market, where he secures a booth and imagines the bustling possibilities of showcasing his work, brim with hope and determination. These moments made me root for Ben, even as his self-doubt and external pressures threatened to derail him.
Zajaczkowski’s attention to detail in describing Ben’s workshop, tools, and creative process added an authentic layer that made Ben’s dreams tangible. Ryan’s manipulations and Ben’s indignation are initially compelling but become predictable over time, detracting from the more nuanced aspects of the story. On the other hand, the inclusion of the “angel” character provides a refreshing touch of mysticism, though her role occasionally feels underdeveloped, leaving me wishing for a deeper exploration of her significance in Ben’s transformation.
The Color of Dreams is a heartfelt exploration of resilience and the enduring power of belief in oneself, in others, and in the unseen forces that shape our lives. Zajaczkowski’s writing captures both the beauty and the messiness of pursuing one’s dreams, offering readers an emotional journey filled with relatable struggles and moments of quiet triumph. This book would resonate with anyone who has ever felt stuck or doubted their ability to overcome life’s challenges. It’s an inspiring read for dreamers, creatives, and anyone who appreciates stories about rediscovering hope in the face of adversity.
Pages: 350 | ASIN : B0DNRG6ZKG
