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Beginnings, Endings, and Meaning
Exoputians follows a group of genetically created humans who arrive on Earth during the Second American Civil War in an attempt to fulfill their mission of saving the planet from the climate crisis. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I actually thought first of the thematic elements of the story before fleshing out the details, something I haven’t done since, although I think it worked well for this novel. I wanted to tell a story from the ‘outsider’s’ perspective, and the best way to do that was to create the Exoputian. I am also one of those people that enjoys going ‘all the way’, and seeing America and the planet at large go down a reckless path for ‘glory’ and cash inspired me to push us to the brink of what current scientific predictions are suggesting. And then I added in the really big What If…Aliens came who could save us, but are we worth saving? The existential questions inspire me the most to write what I write, the morally questionable, the ethical hiccups, the confounding arguments the so-called smartest species on Planet Earth creates so as to believe ourselves righteous in the name of ourselves.
I felt that the science inserted in the fiction was well-balanced. How did you manage to keep it grounded while still providing the fantastic edge science fiction stories usually provide?
Thank you for saying that, I appreciate it. I kept this story as realistic as possible, up until a point, as you mention. The science fiction elements are really only there to exacerbate the story that I wanted to tell, and it made the most sense to me to write it as I did. This is a foremost a story of America. I feel as if our world and the Exoputians’ is the same, just pulled further in time and hate and that one tidbit about extraterrestrials…that was where I needed the science to wrap the story up into what I wanted. The Exoputians are themselves a scientific experiment, yes, but they were really created to shine a light upon the darkness that is humanity. I felt that grounding was ‘easy’ as the Exoputians were tossed into a very real and horrible, dirty, gritty road trip through America, as humbling and unscientific as one can get, or feel, in a science fiction novel – I think…
I am also a seasoned traveler and have been to the ends of Africa where people are still using cows to plow fields, to trade as currency, where refrigerators do not exist. I like to intertwine the two worlds, the one of the raw and rugged survival, and the tech-heavy world, both LA and San Francisco fit the bill. These places are current in today’s timeline upon Planet Earth, it shocks, depresses, and confuses me every time. But LA and SF also have the poorest people I have ever seen in my life, in the richest country on Earth, where we build rockets to go to Space, for fun. I find the homeless of LA and the rural poor African as the grounded people in our fast paced world of high speed internet and space exploration. I just tried to add that one giant leap for human/Exoputiankind.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
Definitely racial strife in America. White Nationalism is awful, extremely dangerous, and needs to be understood as one of the most realistic ways the American Empire falls. I also wanted to explore what it means to be human, I think I strive for that question and answer in all my writings, and if we can define human, is it actually a good thing? I really don’t have the answer but tend toward the skeptic in that argument. I could not write a book about racial strife and the general feel of America without going into politics. Neither ’side’ is right, and I wanted to show that in this story.
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?
As the book is, the story is complete. I am not a series writer and do not intend to be, I generally find stand alone novels (or stories-Hyperion and The Fall of Hyperion is a two book set/one story) the best way to tell stories with beginnings and endings, and with meaning.
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Website
With rising tides and thawing tundra, the Exoputians-a new species of human genetically created to live in Space and communicate with the Folbulae, land in the Republic of Texas following a missile strike on their Space station. Mary and the other Exoputians learn of the lies their progenitor taught them, training the Space-bred crew to use their novel communication to cure the planet they’d never set foot on. As Mary and the others road trip through racially segregated America, they encounter multiple attempts on their lives to follow through with their once-mission of saving the planet from the climate crisis.
Discover with Mary what’s worth saving on a planet prepared to destroy her entire species.
Content Warning: This novel is about the Second American Civil War, a race war. As such, it contains references to racism, police brutality, war, profanity, hate speech, violence, violence against minorities, racial slurs, sexual violence, drug use, death/murder, descriptions of gore, school shootings, animal death, slavery, terrorism, torture, kidnapping, homophobia, child death, alcohol/ism, and possibly others.
Exoputians
Exoputians plunges into a dystopian future where a catastrophic collision between two ballistic missiles has decimated the Exogenesis Station, propelling Mary, the Chief Resident, into a leadership vacuum amidst chaos. Tasked with guiding her crew to a grim destination—Planet Earth—Mary faces the aftermath of the Second American Civil War, depicted through a blend of science fiction and political drama.
This novel starkly portrays one of the most turbulent periods in a fictionalized United States, weaving a narrative rich with violence and potent themes. AJ Pagan IV doesn’t shy away from drawing bold parallels to recent U.S. events through a series of ironic and pointed critiques, showcasing a daring approach to storytelling. The story, while embracing typical sci-fi tropes, successfully engages the reader with a spectrum of characters—from the admirable Mary to others who evoke a visceral dislike. It’s a narrative that skillfully elicits a wide range of emotions and provokes thought about the real-life parallels it draws. The book’s direct approach to unfolding its themes and characters ensures clarity and accessibility, effectively highlighting the stark realities of abuse and corruption in governance. This straightforward use of analogies and metaphors appears intentional, serving to emphasize the urgent messages within the narrative. While I feel that a bit more subtlety could enhance the depth and richness of the story, the clear and purposeful exposition ensures that the essential themes resonate strongly with the reader.
Exoputians is undoubtedly a provocative read that stirs dialogue and reflection, making it a significant addition to the realms of sci-fi and political commentary.
Pages: 306 | ASIN : B0CYM3PHNN
A Collision Course of Ideologies
Eruption 2085 follows a man in the middle of a brutal war where allegiances are questioned, brothers are lost, and one brother is in the seat of power they set out to destroy. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The setup for Eruption 2085 is the result of combining the events of the real world with the journey of the characters. We were shown a lot of the worst in 2020, between massive outbreaks, police brutality, questionable politics and a seemed regression in race relations, and we see all of this addressed in Ignition 2084. Eruption takes all of the struggle and social turmoil of its predecessor and amplifies it through the characters’ experiences. John and Brian are set on a collision course as their personal ideologies are tested through the nature of war. It really strives to ask the question of what happens to the ally when the battle gets hard? Will they stand and fight by the side of the oppressed, like Bill and Kincaid, or will they fight for themselves and subject their “friends” to yet more longstanding oppression?
Your character development is one of the highlights of your novels. What character did you enjoy writing for? Was there one that was more challenging to write for?
All of my characters are very fun to write for, and they all have a different perspective on what happens throughout the story. If I had to pick one, though, I think that John is always going to be my favorite to write for just because I think we see the most from him. We’ve seen him as the military leader, the husband, the father, a friend, an enemy, and so much more, and we’ve seen how frantically and urgently he protects the ones he loves. At the same time, Brian is a lot of fun, too, since he grows more unhinged as the story goes on. I think that both of them and their relationship in particular poses a unique challenge just because they create a unique dichotomy of perspectives.
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?
It’s always fun to look at a map and decide where to go at a moment’s notice, and what I found out during the telling of this story is that the same is true when you want to plan an epic battle scene. There are scenes in this book that take place in Tennessee, North Carolina, Mississippi, Arizona, etc., and all of them are broken compared to what they look like today. Each scene shows a few actual landmarks that would resonate with people who actually live there, but it is still a very fictionalized version of those cities and states. The interesting thing is that this hasn’t changed too much since the battle scene in the ruins of the White House from Ignition.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when can your fans expect it to be out?
After working on a dystopian science-fiction duology for the last two years, I thought to shift gears and work on something a little less research-heavy. To that end, I actually just finished writing a Pan-African Fantasy novel entitled The Word of Y’Neshu: Heart of the Ijeya, and I am extremely excited about the series and the languages that will spring up from it. As for a release date, though, I have no idea yet. For any fans waiting to see what happens next, all I can say is just keep an eye out on my platforms for when the announcement drops!
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website
War is Not a Game
Ultimatum follows a Marine Raider living in a post-apocalyptic world who has one mission: to reach Three Mile Island at any cost. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I am a sci-fi and fantasy lover. The inspiration for this story was wanting to make my sci-fi classic. My favorite movies are Aliens ’86, Jurassic Park, and Terminator. I love cyberpunk also. I believe if you look through the book you can see the inspiration of all those stories in this novel.
One of the stand-out features in this novel is the character development. Were the characters’ backstory something you always had, or did it develop as you were writing?
As for character development, I am someone who likes teamwork. My first draft was so bad. My main character D was a genetic uber-competent superman. He was the only real character in a story where he travels through the broken world to find out how this happened. That story was a train wreck. My next draft needed more characters, and all of them needed to have traits that complemented D and filled in facts for the reader in a natural way, so I created Zach and gave him tech smarts, Hank with long military experience, Betty with psychological knowledge, and Cella with bioscience knowledge. From there I had to round out the characters and their motivations. I used myself, other family members, and the many people I’ve met in my life to flesh out the main characters.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
The themes of this book are for people to care for resource management and to understand that war is not a game.
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?
This is the first book of a planned trilogy. I plan to release the second novel, Ultimatum: Fallout County, later this year 2024.
Author Links: Goodreads | Amazon
Ultimatum
Ultimatum, by Vladimir Fleurisma, presents a compelling narrative set in a post-apocalyptic landscape marked by war and the presence of menacing creatures. The novel opens with the character of Thomas, who finds himself wrestling with personal issues amidst a backdrop of global political turmoil and escalating conflict. The story then intriguingly shifts to a character known simply as D, who braves a perilous, creature-laden subterranean world.
Fleurisma’s writing style is notably vivid and engaging. He excels in crafting rich, detailed descriptions and dialogues that bring the post-apocalyptic setting to life. His narrative skillfully balances action and emotional depth, employing suspense and horror elements to captivate the reader. The desolate landscapes and the characters’ inner turmoil are portrayed with remarkable clarity and depth. The characters in the story are thoughtfully fleshed out, each endowed with their unique backstories and complexities. Initially, at the forefront of the story, Thomas is depicted as a man confronting personal challenges while navigating a world in disarray. D emerges as a particularly fascinating character whose journey through hazardous environments showcases resilience and complexity. The interactions among the characters, their evolution throughout the tale, and their engagement with the dystopian world they inhabit are pivotal to the unfolding narrative.
Ultimatum stands out as a suspenseful and intricate exploration of a dystopian reality. Fleurisma’s skillful use of descriptive language and his focus on character development result in an enthralling reading experience. This novel not only reflects Fleurisma’s talent in constructing a multifaceted story but also succeeds in keeping readers thoroughly engaged, making it a notable addition to the genre.
Pages: 290 | ASIN: B0BHHGF72X
Eruption 2085
In Eruption 2085, author Jordan Hampton continues the narrative he began in Ignition 2084, weaving a complex tapestry of war, allegiance, and survival. The protagonist, John Hamlin, once revered as the Lightning Dragon of the Violet Shadows faction, now finds himself in the midst of a raging war as the Director of the Yaiba. This novel intricately details the formation of a fragile alliance between the Yaiba, a clan of fierce warriors, the remnants of the Violet Shadows, and the Kabuto Sanctuary, united in their opposition against the formidable Scarlet Kingdom.
The story is a rich blend of genres, incorporating military strategy, science fiction, and fantasy elements. For newcomers to the series, the initial chapters offer an exciting opportunity to immerse oneself in the intricacies of this richly crafted world, with the promise of deeper engagement and understanding as the narrative progresses. Hampton’s writing style is dynamic and multi-layered, reminiscent in some respects of the classic G.I. Joe cartoon series, but with a distinctly literary flair. Set in a near-future landscape, the novel has advanced weaponry, characters possessing extraordinary abilities, and multiple factions locked in a power struggle. The novel thrusts the reader into the heart of its tumultuous world, where deciphering the complexities can be demanding. However, the story truly shines in the quieter moments of character development. John Hamlin emerges as a robust and engaging protagonist, supported by a cast of well-crafted side characters and intriguing antiheroes.
As the reader becomes more immersed in this world, the depth and richness of the narrative become evident. While it might be tempting to categorize Eruption 2085 as a straightforward action novel, it offers much more, with a substantial storyline underpinning the vivid scenes of conflict and confrontation. This novel is a testament to Hampton’s skill in creating a vivid and compelling world that captivates and entertains.
Pages: 532 | ASIN : B0CRD2H5ND
The Light Reapers: Revenge and Redemption
Step into a world forever transformed by the emergence of Major Reece and his formidable brotherhood of ‘infected,’ whose relentless pursuit of global dominion reshaped life as we knew it. Against a backdrop of adversity and betrayals, our valiant team of saviors grapples with the daunting challenge of preserving unity. In the face of dire circumstances, they are forced to resort to unconventional measures, leading Priest and Webb to a crossroads between revenge and redemption as they strive to secure humanity’s survival.
Welcome to the gripping third installment of Gary Hickman’s series, The Light Reapers: Revenge and Redemption, set amidst a chilling zombie apocalypse. In this riveting narrative, Hickman weaves a tale that promises to captivate readers, leaving them hungry for more. Hickman’s skillful portrayal of the military is nothing short of impressive. From capturing the essence of army lingo to depicting the unwavering dedication of soldiers to protect others, the story exudes authenticity and draws readers into the heart of warfare. These characters’ loyalty, courage, and sacrifices add a layer of depth and immersion that genuinely resonates. Amid this meticulously crafted military setting, the protagonist, Priest, emerges as a shining example of Hickman’s attention to detail. With a multi-dimensional personality that acknowledges both strengths and weaknesses, Priest becomes an authentic and relatable figure. The tender portrayal of his affection for Lia adds genuine emotion, further engaging readers in his journey. Amidst the high-stakes drama, the narrative never falters in delivering thrilling, action-packed scenes. The author’s vivid descriptions of carnage, violence, and tactical maneuvers leave readers on the edge of their seats, eagerly turning each page.
The Light Reapers: Revenge and Redemption offers an enthralling and engaging read, firmly gripping its audience with visceral depictions and a well-crafted military backdrop. Gary Hickman’s storytelling prowess shines through, making this a must-read for fans of engaging action and captivating narratives.
Pages: 266 | ASIN : B0C6C6GQ45
Fiction Based In Facts
Lunacom follows a group of military and science personnel who are cut off suddenly from Earth by a mysterious attack and now must uncover what is happening before it is too late. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
While in attendance at the Command and General Staff College, I engaged in many conversations with my military colleagues. We often would talk about the world’s future and the advancement of technology. One day while sitting in class, I decided I would capture our conversations in fiction. LUNACOM is basically our conversations metamorphized into a book for entertainment.
What was your favorite character to write for and why? Was there a scene you felt captured the character’s essence?
Roman Whitacker easily serves the role of my favorite character. Roman represents me during the course. I’m a human resources officer in the Army, and Roman lives the life I believe will represent the future of military human resources. The scene that most captures Roman’s essence is when he interacts with his team in the ‘TMAD’ section. In this scene, we see the value of teamwork and leadership.
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?
While working for senior leaders within our military, I have routinely been reminded to keep facts backed against sources. When I wrote LUNACOM, I used science grounded in facts, and then I imagined where that science could grow and tried to write it down in plain terms. Anyone reading LUNACOM can see these technologies being built today. For instance, just look at the rockets SpaceX is building.
Will there be a follow-up novel to this story? If so, what aspects of the story will the next book cover?
I haven’t fully decided if there will be a follow-up. I’m waiting to see how people will respond to my ideas first, and then I will commit to my decision. I’ve drafted some ideas, and if I decide to write a sequel to this story, then I will cover life on Earth more, and I will also dive deeper into the RA and explore their characters. I’m leaning toward covering military operations around Mars and the inner asteroid belt.
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Website
With no way to know who or what is behind the attack, tensions rise and alliances fracture as the outpost struggles to defend its resources and personnel against the unrelenting enemy. As the situation grows more desperate, a small group of officers and scientists must work together to uncover the truth and find a way to stop the attackers before it’s too late.
LITERARY TITAN 