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Ore Wars
Set in a not-so-distant future, Ore Wars invites readers into a thrilling narrative where humanity ventures beyond Earth to claim the riches of the solar system only to discover they’re not the first ones there. The alien occupants, protective of their territory, aren’t eager to share. What follows is a riveting tale of diplomacy and survival as a courageous team of explorers must navigate interstellar politics, alien cultures, and the brewing tensions back home to secure humanity’s place among the stars.
One of Ore Wars’ most distinctive features is its use of dialogue as a storytelling device. Conversations between characters not only drive the plot but also immerse readers in their world, providing insight into their motivations and the stakes at hand. While some sections, like Captain Aoki’s extended briefing, lean on exposition, the dialogue remains a vital and effective tool for world-building and narrative engagement.
At its core, Ore Wars is more than just a sci-fi adventure, it’s a gripping political thriller. The conflicts feel strikingly real, echoing historical power struggles and the challenges of empire-building. The story’s depiction of the United States and the United Nations competing with an alien power over valuable resources is eerily reminiscent of Earth’s own colonial past. This political drama is brilliantly framed by periodic newspaper-style interludes, which provide additional depth and context, grounding the interstellar stakes in themes that resonate with modern audiences.
The novel’s ensemble cast adds to its appeal, offering a diverse range of perspectives. While some characters could have been explored more deeply, their interactions and collective efforts bring a sense of camaraderie to the narrative. Among them, the cheerful alien Blacky stands out, adding charm and levity to the story. His presence underscores the potential for meaningful connections between species, even amidst conflict.
Ore Wars shines as an ambitious and thought-provoking novel. Its blend of political intrigue, realistic depictions of space travel, and timely commentary on human nature make it a standout in the sci-fi genre. Readers looking for a story that balances thrilling action with sharp social commentary will find much to enjoy in this interstellar epic.
What’s On the Data Cube?
Accidental Intelligence follows a detective who teams up with a manipulative AI to unravel a conspiracy of rogue AIs planning a catastrophic endgame threatening humanity’s survival. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
This book came about because I couldn’t let go of the question, “what’s on the data cube?” That’s the data cube found by Subcommander Andrew Bowers at the end of the prologue. That prologue was supposed to be a one-off short story, but I couldn’t let it go. Mason Truman was born because I needed someone that Bowers could turn to for help. I batted around a lot of possibilities for a long time, but eventually settled on a snarky PI who will probably do the right thing. When he has no other options left. Note, too, that Mason also has a problem letting go of needing to know. That’s where I bleed into him, for sure.
The concept of “Eschaton” is both chilling and philosophical. How did you develop this idea, and does it draw from any specific influences?
It starts with the AIs themselves. Seeming partners with humanity—or at least the government and corporate powers—they took their queues on how to act from the only model available: humans. I wanted to explore a world where AIs were just as fractured, just as capable of good and evil, just as duplicitous, and just as capable of machinations as we are. The idea that some AIs would choose to see their plans as “divinely ordained” felt so utterly perfect.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
One theme I thoroughly enjoyed was Mason’s struggle with his contempt for the Lost, people who spend all their time in the Omninet. Really, he loathes anyone who willingly spends any time in the Omninet. Most of us would likely see that as exciting—I would probably be among the Lost myself. But Mason sees it as something that’s false, as living a life that isn’t real. His contempt directly hampers him professionally, and it blinds him to some things in his own life. It has even been a wedge between him and his best friend, Peanut.
The most important theme, however, is the nature of life in the Terran Republic. My 2139 is hands down a dystopia. Omnipresent surveillance and a state with the power to disappear people in the name of security is horrific. But I wanted to present it through the eyes of the people living it. I wanted to present it from the standpoint of those who grew up in that world, rather than through the lens of today’s reader. I think I wound up with a functional dystopia where things seem pretty dang good, but thinking about the implications should give most people pause. If I’m lucky, I’ll have left readers with questions.
Can you share any insights into your world-building process and how you created such a richly detailed 2139 setting?
I borrowed liberally from plenty of SciFi sources that came before me. Chief among them is Larry Niven, particularly his Known Space universe. Slidewalks, plasteel, and monofilaments all came from my exposure to his worlds. What I didn’t directly borrow was usually the result of my internal logic process. Factotums seem like a no-brainer to me, just like the brain interfaces through which they work. The same with immersion decks and the way being on the Omninet feels real. Kitchencooks came out of rising temperatures and the need to feed people. Marriage contracts and redefining “family” also feels inevitable. Quantum Vaults came from thinking about how people would try to circumvent state surveillance. And then the battle over whether Quantum Vaults would be permitted by that state (referenced in an epigraph) stemmed from the debates we’ve witnessed in our lifetime over encryption. Everything stemmed from trying to logic my way through the problems at hand. At the same time, I wanted readers to recognize the world, to be able to put themselves into that future, despite the crazy cool and often scary changes inherent in that world.
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In his debut novel, Bryan Chaffin transports us to the year 2139, where corporate combines have their own Senate seats, the surveillance-state is all-encompassing, humans live most of their lives in the Omninet, and sentient AIs are partners with the world government. It’s not all bad, though. There are docbots, you never have to wait for a taxi, and if you can afford it, you can get your coffee made the old fashioned way, strained from the algae tanks.
ACCIDENTAL INTELLIGENCE
Private detective Mason Truman is being yanked around by invisible strings, and it’s an AI doing the yanking. Miranda. She’s subtle. Crazy. And she thinks she can see the future. It’s enough to drive Mason nuts. Miranda believes her fellow AIs are up to some kind of grand conspiracy against the Terran Republic, and she wants Mason’s help proving it. Conspiracies are above Mason’s pay grade, though, the kind of time-sink that can put a crimp in more serious pursuits. Like drinking coffee. And staying alive.
But Miranda won’t take no for an answer. Mason can help or Miranda will make sure he becomes intimately acquainted with the finer conversational techniques of the secret police. So Mason digs until he uncovers a cache of stolen communications between a cabal of rogue AIs. They’re planning what they call Eschaton—the divinely ordained end of humanity. Unless Mason and Miranda stop the arrogant pricks, the conspirators will destroy Earth.
Mason and Miranda have one chance, a way of bottling up the rogue AIs. All Mason has to do is lure the conspirators to the right spot in a sim world. That’s how Mason learns that when Miranda said she needed help, what she meant was bait.
Something Of A Science Buff
Homeland follows an AI entity living in a world where humans and AI coexist and looks to build a future where humans are no longer part of the plan. What was the initial idea behind this story and how did that transform as you were writing the novel?
The initial idea behind the story was a belief that biological organisms could never travel into deep space. This transformed into a story about A.I. and how it could do so. All the other stuff relates to the original premise. I tried to find characters who would make things real enough.
I found the science in the novel to be well-developed. What kind of research did you do to make sure you got it all right?
Ah, yes, the science. I am something of a science buff, but many hours were spent calculating distances, volumes, FTL figures. Even at that, there is some, shall we say, license taken.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
I focused a lot on dialog. Writing in the third-person omniscient requires a lot of dialog.
What is the next book that you are working on and when can your fans expect it to be out?
A sequel is on the way (working title IMPERIUM). It picks up from where HOMELAND ends, with Tigran continuing on as a biosynthloid.
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Charles addresses this peril. He is the first of his kind—a hyper-intelligent android created by Dr. Thaddeus Ford to be the near-perfect anatomical replica of a human. Many millions of Charles’ kind follow. They are dubbed “Artinians.” All but one are benign.
This one, Artinian Paulon discovers and seeks to rule “Number,” an astronomical population of diverse, anatomic, nomadic AI beings—appointed stewards of the Milky Way. Paulon does want Earth included in his realm-to-be. In a third storyline, science must come to grips with stark realities about interstellar exploration. Humanity experiences disasters and technical hobbles that must be conceded to—finding redeeming solutions instead.
HOMELAND gives us seven diverse main characters who propel three intertwined plots. Each entertains in their own way, stirring our beliefs and feelings. This is grounded science fiction, making it possible for you to envision a possible future for humankind.
Sins of the Saviors
Sins of the Saviors is a thought-provoking dystopian novel that follows Jane Veristo, a defiant and introspective protagonist grappling with the oppressive surveillance state of Goliath Network. Told through the framework of Jane’s journal entries, the story plunges readers into a bleak future where truth is a commodity, history is rewritten, and rebellion simmers under a suffocating blanket of propaganda. As Jane attempts to uncover the truth about her brother’s suspicious death and the sinister systems around her, her journey becomes a gripping tale of resistance and self-preservation.
One thing I really liked about this story was how personal and raw the writing felt. Jane’s voice is captivating—a blend of bitterness, longing, and weary determination that pulls you in. Her reflections on David’s orchestrated “sacrifice ceremony” were haunting. The contrast between her family’s raw grief and the mechanical, staged nature of the event was chilling. The way the Goliath Network erased her presence at the ceremony, editing her rebellion out of the official narrative, hit hard. It reminded me of how powerful institutions can rewrite reality itself.
Author TJ Relk’s portrayal of the Goliath Network is eerily vivid and inventive. The merit-based economy, where every aspect of life is determined by a fluctuating score, feels all too plausible. Jane’s demotion to a hoverbike after a failed protest over a “weather station” highlights the soul-crushing micromanagement of this society. That scene, where a smug bureaucrat silences Jane with falsified zoning documents, felt like a punch in the gut. It’s infuriating but also deeply compelling. The way truth is malleable under Goliath’s regime mirrors some unsettling trends in our current reliance on digital ecosystems.
However, it’s not all doom and gloom. Relk sprinkles in moments of connection and hope that provide relief amidst the despair. Jane’s relationship with Lily, a spirited teenager who refuses to submit to the lies, was a highlight for me. Lily’s defiance and belief in Jane’s fight reignited a spark of optimism, and I couldn’t help but cheer for both of them. These glimpses of humanity’s resilience are what kept me hooked. The flashbacks to Jane’s time with friends like Caleb also added layers of complexity, showing how even the well-meaning can be complicit in oppressive systems.
I’d recommend Sins of the Saviors to anyone who enjoys dystopian tales that cut close to home, like 1984 or The Handmaid’s Tale. It’s perfect for readers who appreciate flawed, complex characters and morally murky worlds. Be prepared to get angry, sad, and inspired—all in one sitting.
Pages: 69 | ASIN: B0DP5P5P4J
Spark
Pat Daily’s SPARK thrusts readers into a richly imagined virtual world where the stakes feel as real as life itself. At the heart of this gripping sci-fi tale is sixteen-year-old Will Kwan, a foster kid whose life has been shaped by uncertainty. His world changes when he clings to the last words from his birth mother: “Find me, save me.” Those same words appear in SPARK, the Solar Prime Augmented Reality Park, a dazzling digital universe that offers Will a sense of purpose and belonging. What begins as escapism soon turns into a high-stakes mission as Will dives deeper into the realm of SPARK and encounters Feral Daughter, a defiant runaway who has made the park her sanctuary. Together, they unravel secrets that could change everything.
This novel borrows familiar themes from classics like Ender’s Game and modern hits such as Ready Player One. Yet, SPARK stands out for its emotional depth and grounded protagonist. Will Kwan is an easy character to root for, a kid navigating the dual struggles of foster care and the existential questions that come with it. His journey feels genuine. He’s not just looking for a home but searching for identity, closure, and hope. His connection with Feral Daughter, another misfit seeking refuge in SPARK, is compelling and adds emotional weight to the story’s twists.
What’s refreshing is how the book avoids the well-tread sci-fi path of portraying technology as a lurking menace. Instead, it channels the spirit of Jules Verne, celebrating innovation and its ability to unite and empower. SPARK, as a virtual playground, is more than a backdrop; it’s a lifeline for Will and Feral Daughter, as well as countless others who feel alienated in the real world. Daily’s world-building is vibrant and imaginative, making SPARK a place readers will want to explore, even as its darker truths emerge. The stakes in the story rise steadily, intertwining Will’s personal quest with larger, often perilous, discoveries about SPARK itself. Every layer revealed about the virtual realm brings new surprises and challenges for Will.
The narrative’s pacing is taut, and the unfolding mysteries keep readers turning pages. Young adults will especially enjoy this fast-paced adventure, but older sci-fi fans will find themselves equally captivated by the dynamic characters and thoughtful exploration of technology’s role in human connection.
In SPARK, Pat Daily delivers a story that’s as heartfelt as it is thrilling. It’s a celebration of resilience, friendship, and the enduring power of hope. Whether you’re a teen seeking adventure or a seasoned sci-fi enthusiast, this book promises a virtual escape worth taking.
Pages: 458 | ASIN : B0BL193S4P
The Destiny Ring
The Destiny Ring by Paul Bird is a thrilling blend of contemporary family life, Australian Indigenous culture, and science fiction intrigue. It follows Jacinta Bowen, a teenager who stumbles upon a mysterious ring at a local market, only to discover it is a powerful artifact linked to a secret organization known as STEALTH. Her journey takes her through time and across continents, revealing truths about her family and herself. The story interweaves coming-of-age themes with a gripping plot about time travel and ancient lore.
Paul Bird’s writing is evocative and rooted in place and culture. The opening chapter, where Jacinta dreams of ancient Aboriginal gatherings, sets the tone beautifully. Bird paints the Australian bush in vivid colors, evoking sights, smells, and sounds that transport the reader straight to the granite monoliths and eucalyptus forests. The scene where Jacinta witnesses the Bundjalung, Jukambal, and Gamilaroi peoples trading and storytelling feels like stepping into a living history book, showcasing Bird’s respect for and knowledge of Indigenous traditions.
I found Jacinta’s interactions with her best friend, Cecelia, and her teacher, Mrs. Tindall, to be genuine and heartfelt. One of my favorite scenes is when Jacinta stands up to a school bully, blending her jujitsu training with raw courage. This moment encapsulates her spirit and determination, qualities that make her a compelling protagonist.
What really stood out was the transition from the ordinary to the extraordinary. When the ring is activated by lightning and propels Jacinta into the Viking age, the story shifts gears dramatically. Bird’s descriptions of the storm, the flash of lightning, and the surreal sensation of time travel are electrifying. However, it is the aftermath—the revelations about STEALTH and the syndicate—that cement this as a riveting sci-fi adventure. The detailed discussions about time travel technology and its ethical implications added depth, although I sometimes wished for less exposition and more action.
The Destiny Ring is a page-turner that will appeal to readers who enjoy a mix of contemporary realism, cultural heritage, and speculative fiction. Fans of time travel stories like A Wrinkle in Time or The Time Traveler’s Wife will find themselves hooked, as will those who appreciate strong, relatable heroines. Paul Bird has crafted a story that is as much about family and identity as it is about saving the world, and it left me eagerly awaiting a sequel.
Planet of the Creeps
Walker Long’s Planet of the Creeps takes readers on an audacious and often shocking journey into the cosmos, blending space exploration with intense character drama. The story follows Major Olivia Freeh, a fighter pilot whose career in the Air Force is derailed by entrenched sexism and political maneuvering. Thrust into a NASA project of unparalleled importance, she pilots the Aurora—a fusion-powered experimental craft—to the mysterious Lagrange Point 5, where humanity’s first encounter with an alien object holds staggering implications. The narrative melds hard science fiction elements with biting social commentary, creating a wild ride that is both thrilling and provocative.
Right out of the gate, the writing hits with a no-holds-barred tone. Walker Long’s prose is raw, sometimes veering into irreverence, but it’s always effective in immersing readers in Liv’s perspective. The early scenes detailing Liv’s unjust dismissal from the Air Force are infuriatingly vivid, capturing the emotional toll of systemic discrimination. When Liv discovers a crude and degrading Photoshopped image mocking her, I felt a wave of anger and empathy. Long’s commitment to portraying Liv as tough yet vulnerable makes her relatable, though some moments—like her over-the-top confrontation in her underwear—felt more sensationalized than impactful. The blend of humor and drama here walks a fine line between empowerment and caricature.
The science fiction elements are where the book truly takes flight. The descriptions of the Aurora’s mechanics, from its flawed aerodynamics to its groundbreaking fusion engines, are rich with detail, clearly born from a love of aerospace engineering. The scenes set in space brim with tension and awe, especially the crew’s approach to the enigmatic L5 object. The revelation of the object’s strange, shiny surface emitting Beethoven’s “Ode to Joy” felt both surreal and thrilling.
Planet of the Creeps is not a book for people who are easily offended. Its sharp edges, gritty humor, and unfiltered look at systemic inequities in male-dominated fields make it a bracing read. Walker Long is unafraid to rattle cages and provoke—sometimes to the point of excess—but the result is undeniably compelling. This book is perfect for fans of hard science fiction with a rebellious streak, as well as readers who appreciate flawed but fierce female protagonists.
The Rebirth
V.P. Evans’ The Rebirth is a spellbinding thriller that blends political intrigue, corporate corruption, personal redemption, and philosophical depth. The story begins with the chilling murder of Dermot Walsh, a formidable figure tied to the shadowy Imperatores, a clandestine organization steeped in secrecy and power. His death triggers a cascade of events that draws Jason Roneros, a celebrated author and former member of the group, out of self-imposed exile. Alongside an old ally, Jason risks everything to expose the Imperatores’ crimes. Meanwhile, Mark Gilliam, a police homicide consultant haunted by the loss of his son, seeks redemption in a world that has stripped him of hope. His quest converges with Jason’s mission, plunging them both into the dark and perilous underworld of Chicago. Together, they confront ethical dilemmas, danger at every turn, and the chilling power of an organization intent on silencing them.
From the opening pages, Evans crafts a relentless narrative with breathtaking momentum. The pacing is electrifying, keeping readers hooked through each chapter. Yet, amidst the action and suspense, Evans carves out moments of vivid description, grounding the chaos in a richly detailed world. The writing is sharp, immersive, and unafraid to delve into philosophical territory, adding layers of complexity without losing the thread of the gripping plot.
The characters stand as one of the novel’s strongest elements. Evans excels at creating morally intricate, authentic personalities that resonate. Jason’s weary cynicism and Mark’s raw vulnerability are palpable, anchoring the story with emotional depth. The supporting cast, far from mere background players, adds further intrigue and dimension, often surprising readers with their own complexities.
Beneath its pulse-pounding surface lies a tale rich in thematic exploration. Redemption, betrayal, and the moral cost of dismantling entrenched systems are intricately woven into the narrative. While the novel ventures into dark and occasionally unsettling territory, Evans handles heavy themes—divorce, drug abuse, and existential despair—with nuance and care. Philosophical undertones add further depth, enriching the story without detracting from its gripping momentum. That said, the novel’s ambitious scope occasionally risks overwhelming the reader. A sprawling cast and interwoven subplots demand close attention, and even a brief lapse in focus can lead to backtracking.
The Rebirth is a triumph for fans of noir thrillers. A bold fusion of high-octane action and intellectual depth, it delivers a suspenseful and emotionally charged experience. For those willing to engage with its complexity, Evans offers a richly rewarding journey into the darker corners of the human condition.
Pages: 683 | ASIN: B0BWX78LV5
LITERARY TITAN 