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What If We Did Not Die?
The INCARNEX Compound follows the creator of a compound that can bring people back from the dead, who has to confront the darker side of his creation and the fact that there is a flaw that could cost him and others their lives. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
As an avid fan of science fiction and follower of scientific advancement, I’ve always been fascinated by technologies that fundamentally change how we live.
Death is the one true universal human experience we all share. This made me wonder: what happens when we remove that commonality? How would it affect our relationships, our ambitions, our very understanding of what it means to be human?
The idea grew while I was reading about recent breakthroughs in life-extension medicine, but INCARNEX goes beyond mere life extension into true regeneration, which opened up a fascinating realm of possibilities. This led me down a rabbit hole of research, exploring works by philosophers and researchers who tackle the big questions: What happens when we die? What is human consciousness? What makes us who we are? Are we simply the sum of our memories and experiences, or is there something more fundamental to our identity?
These are the topics The INCARNEX Compound sets out to explore, amid the world of a dystopian thriller!
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?
The setting was heavily influenced by my experiences last summer when I returned to the UK last from Vietnam, where I live most of the year. I was struck by how the wealth divide had grown starker than ever before, particularly in London where you can walk from a street of luxury to one of poverty in mere steps. This disparity became a crucial element of the world-building, as I realized how a technology like INCARNEX would inevitably deepen these societal divisions. Who gets access to immortality? Who decides? These questions shaped not just the physical setting but the social landscape of the novel.
Many of the locations in the book, including the observatory, the school, and the farmhouse, are drawn from real places I’ve spent time in and that readers can visit. I find that grounding fictional elements in real-world settings helps create a more immersive and believable story, especially when dealing with such huge concepts as the INCARNEX technology.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
At its heart, this book explores the deep connections we share with those closest to us. Just as INCARNEX challenges the boundary between life and death, the story examines how our bonds with loved ones can persist beyond physical limitations. Ultimately, it’s about how the people we care for, and the lengths we’ll go to for them, define who we are.
The INCARNEX Compound also delves deep into the ethical implications of playing with nature’s fundamental laws and the conflict between scientific progress and moral responsibility. What price would we be willing to pay for immortality? And perhaps more importantly, should we pay it at all?I believe that in the ever-changing, technology dominated world in which we live, these themes have never been more pertinent to explore than they are today.
Where does the story go in the next book and where do you see it going in the future?
The next installment, The INCARNEX Rebellion, is currently in editing and picks up two years after the events of The INCARNEX Compound.
David and Celia face unprecedented challenges: a brewing rebellion, a revolutionary advancement in INCARNEX that pushes the boundaries of what we thought possible, and a new team of characters whose loyalties remain uncertain. It’s shaping up to be an intense, fast-paced continuation of the story that I hope to have out in early 2025.
The trilogy will conclude with a final installment that brings all the threads together in a world-altering climax. Our characters won’t just be fighting for survival – they’ll be fighting for everything they’ve ever known and believed in. The conclusion will force them to confront the true nature of consciousness, identity, and what it really means to be human in a world where death is no longer a certainty.
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Or he was, until he woke up handcuffed to a bed eight years after being shot in the head.
With no memories of the attack that claimed his and his twin sister’s lives, adjusting to resurrection is grim. Especially since the compound he developed, INCARNEX, is to blame.
Unfortunately, David has woken up in a world with far bigger problems. Bringing people back from the dead is expensive—global-revolution expensive. Meanwhile, a fatal flaw in his creation leaves David in a race against time before his and millions of other host bodies shut down entirely.
When an enigmatic stranger offers David a deal—the chance to redeem himself and save countless lives, including his own—he has just one hundred days to confront past mistakes and unravel the dark secrets of INCARNEX.
As dangers and betrayals mount, David’s frantic race against death becomes ever more desperate. Can he save himself and what remains of society before time runs out, or is the cost of immortality simply too high?
The INCARNEX Compound
Eight years ago, David Harris engineered a groundbreaking compound to defy death itself. Eight years ago, he and his twin sister perished in a tragic accident. Now, David wakes up—handcuffed to a bed in a world unrecognizable. The once-promising INCARNEX, his revolutionary cure for mortality, has spiraled into failure, plunging society into chaos. As time runs out, David must race to undo the damage he’s unleashed. With countless lives hanging in the balance and danger lurking everywhere, he faces a chilling reality: he doesn’t know who to trust, and every second counts.
The INCARNEX Compound by A.J. Roe is an electrifying dystopian sci-fi novel that follows David Harris on his heart-pounding journey to make amends for his catastrophic mistake. Roe crafts a riveting story that refuses to let up. David’s perspective captivates readers, drawing them into his internal struggle while keeping the tension high. His relatability adds depth to the narrative, making his fight to correct his past all the more compelling. Even the side characters shine, each layered with intrigue and unpredictability, keeping readers guessing at every turn. The plot is a whirlwind—packed with suspense, action, and moments of genuine surprise. Roe’s storytelling never loses momentum, offering a relentless pace that ensures there’s no room for boredom. The novel consistently challenges expectations, keeping the audience engaged and hungry for answers. The intricate web of trust and deception is masterfully crafted, and the thrill of discovery is palpable throughout.
For fans of dystopian sci-fi, The INCARNEX Compound is an absolute must-read. A.J. Roe delivers a well-written, gripping tale that is nearly impossible to put down. His ability to balance fast-paced action with thought-provoking themes is exceptional, making the book both exciting and intellectually satisfying. Roe keeps readers questioning everything, while his knack for narrative twists keeps anticipation high. This novel is an exhilarating ride from start to finish, and I’m eagerly awaiting what Roe has in store next.
Pages: 347 | ASIN : B0D11B92SB
El Aullido De Los Invisibles
El Aullido De Los Invisibles nos sumerge en un futuro desolador donde la Tierra ha sido devastada por el colapso ambiental y la decadencia social. Es el año 2150, y la humanidad apenas se sostiene, atrapada en las ruinas de una sociedad que una vez se creyó invencible. González retrata un mundo distópico donde la supervivencia ha vuelto a sus formas más básicas y brutales, y los humanos viven bajo la constante sombra de conquistadores alienígenas que explotan la Tierra para obtener recursos y usan a los humanos como meros productos. Esta sombría narrativa no solo explora el colapso ambiental y político, sino que añade capas de perspectivas íntimas y profundamente humanas, haciendo la historia tanto inquietante como relatable.
La escritura de González es sombría, pero bellamente descriptiva. Al inicio del libro, el contraste entre una Tierra vibrante y saludable y el páramo en que se ha convertido se capta con una claridad escalofriante. Las imágenes persisten, evocando tanto tristeza como una sensación de traición. Me encontré reflexionando sobre lo familiar, aunque aterrador, que se sentía el mundo de González; es un espejo hacia nuestro posible futuro, haciendo que la devastación ambiental se sienta personal. La destreza descriptiva en estas escenas me provocó escalofríos y una conciencia inevitable de nuestra frágil conexión con la naturaleza. Las dinámicas sociales que González explora, especialmente a través de la protagonista Alysa, son crudas e impactantes. El viaje de Alysa—una joven atrapada bajo la opresión de su padre y de las normas sociales asfixiantes—actúa como una potente metáfora de la rebelión contra los sistemas de poder. Su monólogo interno revela su desesperación y esperanza, destacadas en escenas con Mussa, una niña humana tratada como una mascota. González también usa a Onnyriom, la civilización alienígena invasora, como un espejo para criticar temas reales, como el consumismo y la desigualdad. Los onnyrianos se complacen en productos humanos, tratando la Tierra y sus habitantes como meros activos a consumir, mientras que los poderosos manipulan cada faceta de la vida para mantener su dominio. La representación de la sociedad onnyriana, que ve a los humanos como materia prima para productos médicos y de vanidad, me pareció una interpretación inquietantemente literal de los excesos capitalistas actuales. Estos elementos temáticos son directos pero efectivos, haciendo claras las intenciones de González y obligando a los lectores a cuestionar las estructuras en nuestro mundo que priorizan el lucro sobre la compasión.
El Aullido De Los Invisibles es una lectura potente para cualquiera que aprecie los relatos distópicos con propósito. Es ideal para los amantes de la ciencia ficción socialmente consciente, así como para aquellos interesados en historias que desafían el statu quo. La narrativa de González es oscura pero necesaria, haciendo imposible ignorar la advertencia subyacente: si no cambiamos, esto podría ser algo más que ficción. Este libro me dejó una sensación inquietante, reflexiva y, de manera curiosa, esperanzada. Lo recomendaría a cualquiera en busca de un viaje estimulante y emocionalmente resonante.
Pages: 373 | ASIN : B0D34K5JGT
The Cycle of Eden: Shadows of Reality
Seth Varkees, the Young God, embarks on a journey long foretold, a destiny steeped in ancient prophecy. On the enigmatic Dark Continent, he hunts the sinister beings known as the Hands of Sin, entities that have sown chaos and corruption throughout the world. His task is far from simple. These enemies have woven alternate realities, casting Eden into deep shadow. As Seth navigates this treacherous path, the Neo God watches from the periphery, their fates seemingly intertwined. A final showdown looms on the horizon. Will Seth resist the dark temptations crafted by the Neo God and the Hands of Sin, or will evil prevail?
The Cycle of Eden: Shadows of Reality, by Daniel Varona, continues the expansive narrative of the Cycle of Eden series. This fantasy tale is likely to resonate with YA audiences, though it certainly holds appeal for older readers as well. The story centers on Seth, a protagonist born to embody goodness, destined to clash with the malevolent forces represented by Cain and the Hands of Sin. This prophecy is not merely symbolic; it is Seth’s reality. He carries the immense weight of this burden, knowing he is literally the savior Eden has awaited. Despite his godlike nature, Seth grapples with the fears and flaws of a mortal man, adding layers to his character. Seth’s complexity makes him compelling and relatable to readers. His vulnerability draws readers in, making his struggle against formidable adversaries even more engaging. The conflict between Seth and his enemies feels grand in scope, filled with twists that keep the reader on edge. Varona crafts an intriguing world with rich detail, and a strong cast of supporting characters—Ria, Valentina, and Chase—breathes life into Eden. The interplay among these characters adds depth and texture to the narrative.
Shadows of Reality delivers a captivating fantasy experience. The story’s unique premise, combined with its well-drawn characters and unexpected moments, makes it a compelling read. It’s a novel that both young adult readers and seasoned fantasy enthusiasts can enjoy, offering a journey through a vividly imagined world where light and dark forces collide.
Pages: 483 | ASIN : B0D8JSBMWB
A New Dawn
Reginald Andah crafts a world that teeters on the brink of oblivion in the enthralling science fiction novel A New Dawn. The protagonist, Xander Williams, emerges from months in cryostasis to find himself in a military that scarcely resembles the one he left. Earth has transformed into a hostile warzone dominated by malevolent beings intent on annihilating life as we know it. Humanity, now confined to spacefaring ships, grapples with fading hope and the testing of their faith, a theme that resonates deeply throughout the narrative. Amid this chaos, memories are fragile lifelines to a past that seems increasingly out of reach. For Xander, these recollections are as elusive as they are precious, with only his feelings for a woman named Leona providing a semblance of stability.
The narrative unfolds in a first-person perspective, adding a personal touch to the expansive, high-stakes scenario. Andah excels in crafting a plot that feels plausible within its speculative bounds, thanks largely to a well-developed backstory involving governmental errors and cover-ups, adding a layer of authenticity and intrigue. Andah’s skillful depiction of life amid these extraordinary circumstances highlights his writing. He vividly portrays the hardships of this new existence—particularly the scarcity of basic comforts and the painful loss of loved ones. These elements work together to create a fully realized world that is both immersive and unsettling. I was struck by the vivid descriptions of extraterrestrial beings and their dramatic confrontations with humans. These intense moments serve to heighten the novel’s emotional impact, enhancing its deep sense of urgency. A New Dawn effectively captures the reader’s imagination with its compelling narrative of humanity’s determined struggle to reclaim its rightful place on Earth.
Reginald Andah’s A New Dawn is a masterful blend of suspense and philosophical musings, making it a significant addition to the science fiction genre. It challenges readers to consider the depths of human resilience and the power of memory in the face of adversity. Whether you are a long-time fan of the genre or a newcomer, this book promises a journey that is as thought-provoking as it is thrilling.
Pages: 456 | ASIN : B09N9SWR38
Starfall Book 1 (Starfall: A Tale in Two Eras)
Starfall: Book I, by T. Newyear, intriguingly merges science fiction with elements of historical fiction. Set in a near-future scenario impacted by global warming, the story follows Xenia, a woman endowed with a unique dual consciousness: her own and an AI. As Xenia ventures into the Flood Zone, a largely abandoned area, her primary task is to repair a malfunctioning relay. However, her journey takes a curious turn as she discovers the small, reclaimed town of Harmonie, inhabited by a collective of unique intellectuals. Here, she stumbles upon historical documents tied to Camilla Wright, a 19th-century radical thinker, unveiling an unexpected connection between past and present.
T. Newyear showcases a bold narrative approach by blending these two distinct genres. This combination, while unusual, is executed with a creative finesse that enriches the novel’s texture. The dual storyline, oscillating between Xenia’s first-person experiences in the Flood Zone and Harmonie, and the historical revelations about Camilla Wright, is managed adeptly. The choice of first-person narration enhances the immediacy and engagement of the reader with Xenia’s discoveries and challenges. I feel the initial pacing is somewhat gradual, but it gains momentum as Xenia delves deeper into the mysteries of Harmonie.
Xenia’s character, marked by her persistence and curiosity, mirrors the traits of Camilla Wright, forming a thematic bridge between the two timelines. The novel excels in maintaining an air of mystery, keeping readers intrigued about the connections between the past and present. This sense of discovery is one of the novel’s most compelling aspects.
The conclusion of Starfall: Book I leaves readers anticipating more, hinting at the expansive world and deeper storylines yet to unfold in subsequent volumes. Newyear’s novel is a testament to imaginative storytelling, offering a refreshing blend of genres that will likely captivate a wide range of readers.
Pages: 368 | ASIN : B0CLKZLJVY
Forgiveness and Trust
The Cycle of Eden: Two Sides of Corruption is an intriguing fantasy novel. Why was it important for you to write this book?
There are many positive messages that relate to our own world that I hope my readers take away from The Cycle of Eden. In many ways, Eden is obviously a representation of our own Earth and the moral dilemmas we as humans put it through. A major lesson in The Young Revolution is “…the best way to find kindness is by sharing your own.” No matter how dark and lonely the world feels, kindness will always be what unifies us, for we all seek and deserve it. In Two Sides of Corruption, Seth’s ideals and morals, the contagious kindness he showed in Book #1, are what give him a chance at redemption in Book #2. Forgiveness and Trust are also two aspects of life we as humans in the real-world struggle to accept, which is why it was important for me to write about them in this series.
I also wanted to show a more mature take on romance that isn’t overblown by needless drama like we see in most media. In general, another major message I discuss as the series goes on is the importance of history. The Cycle of Eden is chock full of connected and complex relationships, all of which built the world the heroes are learning about as they continue on this journey. As long as we learn from our past mistakes, the hope for changing for the betterment of the world will always exist.
In fantasy novels, it’s easy to get carried away with the magical powers characters have. How did you balance the use of supernatural powers?
Ria and Duo, the two blessed children in the ways of Light and Dark, were both introduced towards the end of The Young Revolution. That only gave the readers a taste of their personalities and strengths, but now I was able to show the potential of their individual journeys and delve deeper into their characters. Both of these naive teenagers are without a doubt the most powerful characters in the series. Because of that, what made writing them so fun was finding ways to limit their abilities, finding ways so they don’t overpower or crush the competition so easily. This is achieved throughout the novels via their individual personalities, through the fact that they are both growing kids still learning about the world and who they are. Like all characters should, Ria and Duo possess certain traits that make them stick out and determine what is more important to them in a situation compared to others. For example, we learn about Duo’s personal duty in Two Sides of Corruption. In a fighting scenario, there could be a moment where Duo could easily destroy the threat but will instead choose to stick by Ria’s side in order to not risk her getting hurt. Meanwhile, another character in that situation, such as the rambunctious Ryder, would dive right in with zero regard, and that is exactly what makes character writing and development so fun to me. Ria is on a whole other level technically because not only does she have her power under control compared to Duo, but she can literally do anything her creative, hyperactive mind comes up with! A power like this can be outstanding in the hands of a child, but at the same time Ria is a sweetheart that cares for the wellbeing of others and will choose to heal someone as her main priority over destruction. These are just two examples of how I balance them through their personalities, which makes it feel natural in the novel and the world itself. There are also moments I tease my readers with the potential these two have. One example in particular in Two Sides of Corruption is when Ria mentions how she can summon a “dragon” in order to reach a goal. This tease not only confirms that Ria can perform such a feat, but also leaves the potential of readers seeing this “dragon” in a future installment.
When it comes to combat, I’ve made it a point to make every single interaction fresh throughout the entire series. This is done through a variety of methods, whether that is a new weapon being acquired, an additional power-up, a new location such as a narrow hall or a wide-open marketplace or introducing new enemies with different abilities to tackle. Focusing on something different from the previous action sequence keeps the writing from getting repetitive. For example, introducing a new character is like unlocking a whole new framework of ideas that I can now branch off of. All of my characters also have unique weapons or abilities that aren’t shared with anyone else, which allows them to shine in their own ways. When multiple heroes are fighting together, I also practice following one character at a time to reduce reader whiplash. For example, instead of swapping sentence to sentence, I will dedicate a paragraph to Valentina describing everything she is doing with her fists and then transition to Seth by having him save her with a well-placed bullet, a weapon Valentina does not use, drawing a clear contrast of characters. The sequence then follows Seth for a bit, making use of his kit in the particular scenario which would be very different to how Chase would approach it, who I may switch to next to show his side. This process flows until a conclusion is reached, making each character show their unique usefulness for the situation at hand.
What experience in your life has had the most significant impact on your writing?
The reason why the moon and the stars are a focal point in my series, a huge source for conveying a message, especially in the later installments, is because the hobby of stargazing is related to my own mother. It is a personal form of bonding her and I have, and I dedicated this series to her. When I look at the moon, I see and feel something completely different due to my upbringing while others may just see a floating rock reflecting the sun’s light. What they see is true, but we as humans attach our emotions to things, and our feelings are what give things power and meaning. The moon and the stars are beautiful for many reasons to me, and viewing them is a source of comfort, so it is rather easy for me to write about them symbolically. I see a symbol of hope, an image of unity, an inspiring guide showing the way, a sense of closeness and a reminder that we aren’t alone, because each and every one of us, no matter how far away we are from one another, all see the same moon in the night sky.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
The plan with the Cycle of Eden series has been solid from the start. The entire series is finished, but I am constantly improving and expanding on the world and characters practically every day. Readers should see the third novel next year, which will pick up right where Two Sides of Corruption left you. If things keep going as smooth as they did for the first two books, the fourth novel should also be getting published in late 2024!
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Website
Seth, the prophesied Young God destined to revive the Light, finds himself corrupted by his very own brother, the Neo God. Like an addictive drug, the Darkness infecting his soul twists his resolve, transforming him into a carrier of malevolence aiming to deny his gift of salvation to Eden.
However, no one else knows of this parasite, and they must never find out. As Seth struggles to resist the haunting lies etched into his mind, his desperate attempts to survive ultimately result in heinous actions against his loved ones. With each passing moment, the horrible symptoms intensify, driving the hero further into servitude to his brother as they journey toward the ominous Dark Continent.
In The Cycle of Eden: Two Sides of Corruption, Daniel Varona delivers visceral action and delves deeply into the internal conflicts brewing within the heroes, expertly exploring the fragility of trust, teetering on the edge of collapse and creating a suspenseful and thought-provoking narrative.
The Cycle of Eden: Two Sides of Corruption
In The Cycle of Eden: Two Sides of Corruption, Daniel Varona creates a captivating sequel to The Young Revolution. Picking up where the previous novel concluded, readers dive deep into the tempestuous journey of Seth, the prophesied young hero. As he endeavors to reclaim the light of Eden, he unwittingly descends into an abyss of shadow. The sinister forces of the Neo God menacingly ensnare Seth, molding him into the embodiment of the malevolence he’s desperately battling.
Varona’s storytelling prowess shines through, ensuring that the sequel doesn’t get overshadowed by its predecessor. Rather, it enhances the allure, magnetizing readers into a more intense, immersive, and spellbinding realm. The Cycle of Eden claims its rightful place among the top-tier fantasy series I’ve delved into this year. Its world-building strikes a harmonious balance—neither overwhelmingly intricate nor skimpy but brimming with ingenuity and fresh concepts. Echoes of themes and ideas from the first novel reverberate throughout, underscoring Seth’s evolving narrative.
The characterizations are brilliantly etched, with palpable evolution seen from one book to the next. Varona’s riveting ensemble of characters and his pulse-pounding, action-laden plot ensures readers are tethered to every page. One particularly compelling element is the intricate web of relationships and Seth’s internal strife to fend off encroaching shadows. It serves as a poignant reminder: while shadows lurk in every heart, our true mettle is tested in how valiantly we resist their pull.
Pages: 465 | ASIN : B0CK5BX6ZJ
LITERARY TITAN 