Blog Archives
The Conscience of the C.O.D.
James Terminiello’s The Conscience of the C.O.D. embarks on a frantic adventure aboard the luxury cruise ship Climax of Dreams. Here, the PR director, Trip Torrent, is thrust into a day that spirals increasingly out of control. Initially faced with the news that his vessel will shelter 4,000 refugees, his challenges escalate when the ship is overtaken by O’Higgins and his crew during a high-profile fundraiser, sparking a chain of chaotic events.
Torrent’s ordeal is amplified by an approaching hurricane, a kidnapped tech entrepreneur, and a malfunctioning automated ship, among other crises. Amidst the turmoil, he interacts with a vibrant ensemble of characters—ranging from semi-nude female commandos to a dubious repairman and a charismatic robotic bartender—each rendered with a mix of sharp wit and vivid detail. Terminiello skillfully blends suspense, action, romance, and comedy to navigate the disasters befalling the C.O.D.
The protagonist, Trip Torrent, is portrayed as a grumpy yet endearing figure whose resilience garners reader support, while O’Higgins emerges as a complex antagonist who elicits unexpected empathy. The novel’s humor shines as one of its core strengths, weaving through the bizarre and intricate circumstances that conspire to complicate Torrent’s day. Terminiello’s satire is particularly effective, offering a clever critique wrapped in humor that might not suit all tastes but stands out for its incisiveness. Action sequences in the book are vivid and engaging, with Terminiello’s detailed prose ensuring that readers remain riveted. The strategic intricacies of a naval maneuver and the ethical quandaries faced by the characters are portrayed with a compelling clarity that effectively balances the narrative’s humorous and tense moments.
The Conscience of the C.O.D. offers an absorbing mix of laughter and adrenaline, making it a delightful pick for readers who enjoy a dynamic blend of humor and suspense. While Terminiello’s distinctive comedic style may vary in appeal, his sharp wit and engaging storytelling craft a thoroughly enjoyable reading experience.
Pages: 180 | ASIN : B0CZZCJPRP
The Reentrant
The Reentrant, by Terrence Hart, is an engaging sci-fi novel that delves into futuristic themes such as biological evolution, the origin of life, and the future of technology and space travel. The novel’s central character, Aurelia, undergoes a transformative journey starting on contemporary Earth. She becomes the first to test Reentrancy technology, which allows her consciousness to be uploaded to the digital realm. This groundbreaking event enables her to transcend biological death. After a lengthy period of stasis, Aurelia awakens in a distant future as a digital entity, capable of transferring her consciousness into bio-shells, specialized biological organisms designed for foreign planets. The novel follows her as she navigates this new future, where time is perceived differently and interstellar travel is possible thanks to Reentrancy technology.
The novel is exceptionally well-written, with compelling characters and convincing premises. Hart effectively grounds the reader in Aurelia’s familiar world before launching her into a vast journey through the cosmos. The descriptions of space travel and the technology that enables it are detailed and immersive, creating a richly imagined future. The plot is strong and captivating, filled with vivid imagery of a galaxy brimming with life, new technology, and the potential for indefinite survival in digital form. The characters are engaging, particularly Aurelia, whose survival journey is easy to root for. Her bond with her new space companion, Nimishi, adds depth to the story as he helps her adjust to her new life among the stars. The book offers an enjoyable and intriguing read, with Hart’s writing style effectively addressing relevant themes.
The Reentrant, by Terrence Hart, stands out as a compelling exploration of futuristic themes, blending intriguing characters, imaginative technology, and a captivating plot. Terrance Hart’s storytelling weaves an immersive journey through time and space, leaving readers with much to ponder about humanity’s future.
Pages: 330 | ASIN : B0CW1GM2K5
Of Friction
In Of Friction, the first installment of S. J. Lee’s Altered Earth Series, readers are introduced to protagonist Sam “Valkyrie” Ryan right from the outset. The narrative dives into her complex world as she grapples with her brother’s abrupt departure from the military, a budding romance with Miriam, the team’s medic, and startling revelations about her own past. These personal challenges are set against her mission to safeguard a crucial reconciliation summit between the Altered and humans, threatened by human-supremacist terrorists.
The book maintains a brisk pace, managing to be engaging without overwhelming the reader. Lee effectively portrays a vivid and believable world through Sam’s perspective, ensuring that each character stands out with distinct voices and personalities. This strong sense of place and character enriches the narrative, making the high-stakes environment palpable.
The prologue of Of Friction serves as a great preliminary brief that sets the stage with valuable background details that enrich the reader’s understanding of the world within the series. While stylistically distinct from the chapters that follow, this introduction ensures that the narrative is accessible from the very beginning, offering insights that complement the unfolding story without necessity, indicating the author’s thorough world-building.
The relationship between Sam and Miriam holds the potential for deeper exploration. I think by incorporating Miriam’s perspective earlier in the story, readers could gain a fuller understanding of her motivations and emotions. I think this addition would not only enrich the romantic subplot but also contribute to a more rounded and impactful climax, smoothly integrating the story’s emotional and narrative arcs.
Of Friction is a compelling opener for the Altered Earth Series, featuring a well-crafted setting and a dynamic cast. This dystopian military thriller lays a promising groundwork for the subsequent books, leaving readers eager to see how the complexities of the characters’ relationships and the overarching conflict will evolve.
Pages: 404 | ASIN: B0CPGG44BR
Political Turmoil
Tribal Logic follows a group of people who find themselves struggling to survive in a world plagued by political turmoil and shifting loyalties. Could you please share what inspired the initial idea for this series and how it evolved as you were writing it?
Well, um…that’s a big question. I’ve been writing the series for over three decades. And maybe I learned how to write! The situations and characters get better with each book.
Political turmoil is a big theme in the series. In the previous book HOME RULE, the tribes gain a new leader and feel that they are united. With TRIBAL LOGIC, we expand the worldview to include a military coup at Stargate Junction and a rescue mission into the asteroid field.
I like to think that the action reflects moments in our own world, like when the cosmonauts were in space for over a year and returned to find a dismantled Soviet Union.
For evolving themes, we added more magic into TRIBAL LOGIC. Characters begin to meet others from an elusive tribe with skills in making wards, charms, scripts, and hexes – mostly to defend themselves. One new character is a young healer named Opin who can lay-on-hands for relief from a bleeding wound. I researched Indian and Middle Eastern traditions of healing and learned a great deal about our larger world too.
Were you able to achieve everything you wanted with the characters in the novel?
I see TRIBAL LOGIC as a pair to the next book UTCAN’S TALISMAN that will be released in August 2024. The story arch is satisfied over the two books. There are many characters, but we mostly follow the urge to connect between Jesse Hartley and Hershel Henry. Jesse is a flawed character – high-handed and a poor negotiator. We love to hate her and wonder how she will make a place for herself.
Dr. Greensboro is a primary character still, married to General Shaw. Her research has led her to a remote fishing village called Sergiio, but events bring the world to her door.
My principle is to show women in more roles than newlyweds or evil queens. I keep exploring how relations operate over time and how women make choices to keep the marriage fresh and manage the decades for child raising. The stories tend to stretch out rather than being satisfied with winning the day.
What was one of the hardest parts of Tribal Logic for you to write?
Each book section has its own narrator, so we see the world through the eyes of Jesse Hartley, then Dr. Greensboro, then Hershel Henry, then Bybiis el Putuki. Developing the individual voices so each section is personal and conversational with a specific point-of-view can be a challenge – and a reward.
After spending a hundred pages with Henry’s voice, we are jolted to encounter Bybiis’s view of him as a feckless philanderer, for example.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when can your fans expect it to be out?
UTCAN’S TALISMAN is Book Five in the series and slated for release in August 2024. Utcan is from the tribe with magic. His talisman is modeled after a found-in-nature “mermaid’s purse” that’s actually a folded seaweed frond where a shark has inserted a fetus for extra incubation. For sci-fi, I was able to embellish that idea to a talisman where the holder can peer through a hole in the head of a dead serpent and talk with another holder. Ha, ha…I love magic.
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A change in leadership on Stargate Junction makes all characters question how the future will shape. How to survive the shifting loyalties among the city-states? Will my home even be there when I return?
While on a deep space rescue mission, Hershel Henry misses karsci on Dolvia the Abydian khalif steps down. Within the turmoil, will Henry connect with Jesse Hartley, or is that romance lost forever?
Tribal Logic: Book Four of The Tribal Wars
In Tribal Logic, set in Dolvia, readers are reintroduced to the persevering Brianna Miller, who remains in captivity. Her friends, determined and unwavering, strive tirelessly for her release. Brianna’s courage and resilience have made her a symbol of strength among the other women. This time, the narrative spotlights Jesse Hartley, who emerges as a central figure skillfully navigating the tumultuous political landscape of their world. The stakes are higher than ever, with Jesse appearing as a potential savior in this intricate situation.
The book also delicately explores the evolving relationship between Jesse and Hershel Henry. Despite their shared goal of liberating the captives from the clutches of an oppressive company, their personal paths have significantly diverged, casting doubt on the future of their romance. As a reader who thoroughly enjoyed the third book in the series last year, I approached this with high expectations, which were fortunately met. For those familiar with the series Tribal Wars, this is the first book in a new trilogy that is part of the series. It does not disappoint readers with its exciting adventure and political intrigue. Newcomers to the series are encouraged to start from the beginning to fully appreciate the depth and evolution of the narrative. One of the book’s strengths lies in its character development, particularly in showcasing a female protagonist in a leading role. The story unfolds at a suspenseful pace, keeping readers eager to discover the characters’ fates. The novel’s rich tapestry of characters and its intricate plot add depth to the narrative, making it more engaging. While navigating through the large ensemble of characters may require some initial effort, the payoff is in the form of compelling dialogues and well-crafted individual character arcs that enrich the reading experience.
Tribal Logic: Book Four of The Tribal Wars is a captivating science fiction novel that takes readers on a thrilling adventure filled with complex character dynamics and political intrigue. This book is an excellent choice for anyone who loves well-crafted stories that blend action, suspense, and thought-provoking themes. With its engaging plot, relatable characters, and well-paced narrative, Tribal Logic is a must-read for any science fiction fan looking for an exciting and intelligent read.
Pages: 419 | ASIN : B0CW3VGXPM
Birth Management Water
Ian Waldraff’s Birth Management Water enters the realm of speculative and dystopian fiction, presenting a world where the right to birth is stringently controlled by an oppressive regime. The story centers on Jane and Jacob, a couple grappling with the painful denial of parenthood. Their quest for answers leads them to a mysterious place named Jefferson, initiating a journey filled with revelations and unexpected turns. As they yearn for a fresh start, Jane and Jacob face numerous challenges, prompting deep reflections on identity, sacrifice, and personal change.
Waldraff’s narrative skillfully addresses themes of societal control, reproductive rights, and the extent of government intervention in personal freedoms. The plot, with its dynamic pacing and swift character introductions, initially sets the stage for an intriguing narrative journey. This approach ultimately enhances the story’s unique and compelling nature, progressively drawing the reader into its fascinating world. The portrayal of a society where birth is regulated is particularly striking, serving as a commentary on governmental power and human vulnerability. The inclusion of a secluded island, immune to the regime’s scrutiny, adds a layer of intrigue and complexity to the story.
Waldraff masterfully portrays the protagonists’ struggle against systemic oppression, vividly conveying their journey and eliciting strong emotional responses from the reader. This focus on their plight highlights the nuanced exploration of character development throughout the narrative. The characters in the narrative make decisions that are intriguing and thought-provoking, adding a layer of complexity and depth to the storyline. This element of unpredictability keeps the reader engaged and curious throughout the journey. The book’s intense and poignant conclusion is well-executed, leaving a lasting impression and provoking thoughtful contemplation. Waldraff delves into existential themes, exploring the essence of identity and the quest for autonomy. This exploration enriches the reading experience and challenges readers to reconsider their perceptions of societal structures and personal agency.
Birth Management Water is a fascinating and insightful book that delves into the intricacies of human existence in a dystopian world. The author presents a thought-provoking narrative that engages the reader from the very beginning and evokes poignant emotions throughout. The book explores the complex themes of identity, power, and control. Overall, Birth Management Water is a must-read for anyone interested in dystopian fiction or those who enjoy exploring the complexities of human nature.
A Coming-Of-Age Story
Memories Don’t Lie follows a woman in a tactical skills program who is plagued by her dead mother’s memories, which jeopardize all she has worked for. What inspired the setup of your story?
I carried my main character around with me for many years, but it was through writing the novel that I learned who she really was. When tossing around ideas on how best to tell her story, the inspiration came from a dream (as cliché as that sounds), but I still recall it in vivid detail. The dream was about a young woman being chased by persons unknown across the roof of a five-storey building. She jumped off the roof to escape but was caught by another person who was sent to help her. That posed the questions: who was chasing her and why; how did she avoid injury when jumping from so high; who was the person sent to help her and why, all of which I’ve answered in the novel. I wrote that scene in the
first draft. It went through many changes, but a version of it still remains in the published novel.
The world you created in this novel is brimming with possibilities. Where did the inspiration for the setting come from, and how did it change as you wrote?
I love delving into the murky world of super soldiers and military experiments, and while those concepts are not new, my interest in déjà vu and cellular memory led to a new twist on genetic performance enhancement. I chose a military setting so the establishment was large enough to carry the scope of the scientific and genetic enhancement elements I present. I also didn’t want to spend half the novel explaining how my characters had access to weapons, vehicles, intel, etc. They had enough to deal with without worrying about how to get their hands on a gun. As for the time zone, I only took a small step into the future so my world would retain relatable real-life aspects. The locations are real, but I changed some details to reflect near-future scenarios. As for how much did it change as I wrote? Not much. If anything, I found it uncanny how many times I researched a location and found information similar to my fictional elements. For example, one scene takes place in an abandoned mine. In that particular real-life location, I discovered a historical reference to an abandoned mine in the same area.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
Memories Don’t Lie is a coming-of-age story and includes found family, friendships, identity/self- discovery, and finding one’s place in the world, all set against a cautious approach to genetic experimentation backdrop. My main character is physically strong, but self-doubt and external threats leave her vulnerable and open to mind-attack. Through my characters, I explored what it means to lower self-imposed barriers that prevent the development of trust between each other, and the run-on effects when that happens. The most important element for me was learning who you truly are and tapping into the inner strength that accompanies it.
Will there be a follow-up novel to this story? If so, what aspects of the story will the next book cover?
Yes, the story will continue in a planned series. My characters will face new challenges that will test their core values, threaten to tear apart their tight-knit group and expose them to the sinister after-effects of the initial genetic enhancement experiment.
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Instagram | Website | Amazon
Her journey takes a deadly turn when she uncovers secrets about her past, hidden deep in her mother’s memories, that threaten everything Sarah wants.
They could cost her everything she holds dear—and her life.
Pauline Yates, Australian author of award-winning horror and science fiction, debuts her first science fiction novel—fast-paced action/adventure to keep you on the edge of your seat.
Don’t let him find her.
My dead mother’s desperate plea takes my thoughts hostage, shattering my composure and threatening the freedom I long for. Why am I remembering this when nothing’s happened in the last thirteen years? All my focus needs to be on passing my final sharpshooting assessment. The cryptic recollection should be the last thing on my mind.
Irritated at the intrusion, I block out her voice and pace around my barracks room as if running the course. A win will earn me the Tactical Skills Program’s top graduate title, and I’m determined to claim it. It’s the only way to show Marrick Daniels I’d be perfect for his C.S.R. team. His crime-fighting unit is the best and his vacant position unprecedented. I’ll never get another chance. But the memory continues to haunt me.
LITERARY TITAN 