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Family and the Bonds of Friendship
The Forsaken Planet follows an ordinary young man from suburban New England whose world is shattered when alien ships invade Earth, leading him to enlist in a different alien army to learn how to protect those he loves. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I had many inspirations. It really evolved from my love of epic fantasy and anything space-related, and wanting more books that blend the two. I started this story over twenty years ago while in my teens. I had read Ender’s Game only a couple of years before, and that was a major inspiration, especially towards the combat simulations in this book. Wheel of Time was another one. Its themes of the ordinary, innocent farm boys and girls becoming heroes, as well as its lore and the connection to the ancient past that the struggle during that series is linked to, that all rubbed off onto my own work. Lastly, the mini-series Band of Brothers is a big one. That is my favorite show of all time and it directly influenced many of my war-training scenes.
A lot of time was spent crafting the character traits in this novel. What was the most important factor for you to get right in your characters?
The most important thing was to make them all diverse and different enough from one another. It is a grand story I have in store, one that only grows as the series expands. I needed to ensure that I laid a solid foundation for each character, as many of them have their own POVs and larger parts to play in this conflict as the series progresses. I think the roots I laid here will help them better stand on their own down the road, when it’s their time to shine.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
It was critical for me to express the importance of family and the bonds of friendship. My story centers around these ideas and eventually asks some hard-hitting questions regarding them. We all want to protect those we love. But what if by doing that, we are putting others in harm’s way? That is a central theme as the series progresses, and it was the main focus of this installment to fully mold that bond, loyalty, and love between not just the core group of characters but those they meet along the way.
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 in the series, and book two (The Son of the Prophets) is already out. There is also a novella linked to the series (A Princess of Oldir), which can be read for free by anyone who signs up for my Readers List (newsletter) on my website. And book three (The Dark Element) actually comes out this month on May 20th, 2025.
Readers can expect a lot of the same. A story centered around Colt and Company and their loyalty towards one another, one with the intense combat sequences you grew to know in TFP, along with the mysteries of the past and prophets ever-growing. However, it all expands tenfold more than it did in book one, with the addition of many new POVs in books two and three, as well as events taking these characters away from one another, across the stars to multiple other planets, and to war.
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-The Power of the Stars-
“With it, we are capable of greatness or are a weapon that will only bring suffering to the universe.”
When mysterious aircraft wreak havoc across Earth’s skies, it is revealed that there are clusters of other planets where humankind resides, distant worlds where the people wield the power of the stars themselves. It is an energy force that can bring about miracles or, as the alien fleet’s ruthless leader displays, unleash horrors beyond imagination.
After experiencing a loss during the onslaught, Colton Samson, an ordinary college student, vows to protect his loved ones at any cost. But to learn the power to do so, he must enlist into the Army of the Universal Throne—a second alien force with its own agenda.
With the revelation of a secret prophecy foretelling humanity’s demise and Colton’s improbable role in preventing it, he embarks alongside a diverse group of friends to the Throne’s capital, the planet of Vintara. There he faces prejudice from supposed allies, lifelike combat simulations that test him to his core, and the looming threat of a universal war. Only by embracing his true potential can Colton hope to secure the safety he seeks, in a universe that views him as nothing more than Forsaken.
The Forsaken Planet
The Forsaken Planet is a sprawling science fiction epic that kicks off the Power of the Stars series. It tells the story of Colton Samson, an ordinary young man from suburban New England whose world is shattered when alien ships invade Earth. After the sudden destruction of his home and the death of his best friend during the attack, Colton discovers that he is connected to a larger cosmic struggle. The book unfolds across multiple planets and explores themes of vengeance, power, friendship, and identity. As Colton grapples with loss and truth, he finds himself drawn into a war that threatens not just Earth but the entire known universe.
I was hooked from the first page. Bryan Wilson knows how to build tension. The slow burn of normal life being ripped apart by cosmic forces gave me real chills. His characters, especially Colton, feel like people you could know: awkward, impulsive, loyal to a fault. The dialogue is natural and sharp, and Wilson has a real knack for blending big sci-fi concepts with relatable emotions. Spoiler alert: When TJ dies, it hurt. Not just because of the loss, but because of how raw and real that moment felt. I also loved how Wilson keeps the pacing tight, even with a lot of world-building. He doesn’t get bogged down in exposition dumps. He lets the mystery unfold at just the right pace.
One of my favorite parts was the mythology. It’s this rich, layered history of prophets, lost power, and a cosmic kingdom that once united all human-inhabited worlds—including Earth. I loved how Earth is portrayed not just as a distant, disconnected planet but as something sacred that was cut off, “forsaken,” like a fallen temple in the stars. It reminded me a lot of Star Wars with its ancient orders and mysterious forces, but also had touches of Dune and even The Silmarillion—that same sense of deep, mythic pasts shaping the present.
The writing is energetic and full of heart. Bryan Wilson has a clear love for the story he’s telling, and it shows in the vivid scenes and emotional moments. His style is easy to follow, with natural dialogue and strong pacing, though sometimes it leans a little dramatic. Still, the emotion behind the words pulls you in, and when it hits, it hits hard.
The Forsaken Planet is a heartfelt and wild ride through space and emotion. It’s for anyone who likes their science fiction with a bit of old-school flair, big stakes, and bigger feelings. If you’re into stories about underdogs becoming heroes, hidden powers, and interstellar drama, then this one’s for you.
Pages: 599 | ASIN : B0C3RVGK9R
Worldmaker of Yand-Yildun
Worldmaker of Yand-Yildun by Andri E. Elia takes us to the planet Yand, orbiting the star Yildun, where Yanara, a powerful spellcaster known as the Worldmaker, must defend her world from the menacing K’tul, an intergalactic invader. The story intricately weaves themes of love, loss, and the responsibilities that come with immense power, all while introducing a rich cast of characters, including Yanara’s daughter, who is just beginning to manifest her own inherited abilities. As threats loom, Yanara is not only challenged by external forces but also by the complexities of her personal life, especially her relationships and her desire to protect her family.
From the start, I was struck by the depth of Yanara’s character and her multifaceted nature. She is powerful, yet vulnerable, particularly when it comes to her family. The narrative begins with a rich backstory, laying a solid foundation for the events that unfold. I found the early exploration of Yanara’s internal struggles compelling, especially her reflections on her marriages and her longing to start a family. These personal conflicts made Yanara relatable despite her extraordinary abilities, and they added a layer of emotional depth to the story. The planet Yand, with its empathic, winged humanoids and their intricate societal norms, is vividly depicted. I particularly enjoyed the scenes that highlighted the contrast between Yanara’s immense power and the everyday struggles of life on Yand. The descriptions of the landscape, the technology, and the unique cultural elements of the Yandar people were immersive, drawing me deeper into this fantastical world. The illustrations, particularly those by Lily Dormishev, beautifully complement the narrative, capturing the essence of Yand’s unique environment and its inhabitants.
Elia’s writing is both evocative and engaging. It has moments of intense action balanced by introspective passages. I appreciated the seamless blend of science fiction and fantasy elements which kept the story unpredictable and fresh. The inclusion of LGBTQIA+ themes, particularly in the depiction of Yanara’s relationships, felt natural and added a contemporary touch to the classic hero’s journey.
Worldmaker of Yand-Yildun is a captivating start to a trilogy that will appeal to fans of both sci-fi and fantasy. It is a book for those who enjoy stories rich in character development, world-building and complex themes. I recommend it to readers who appreciate layered narratives and aren’t afraid to dive into a world as complex as the characters that inhabit it.
Pages: 308 | ASIN : B0BJRMM3T6
What if?
In House Xrion, a peacekeeping family teeters on the brink of corruption as they lose sight of their purpose and bring the galaxy closer to war. Where did the idea for this novel come from?
I conceptualized what would happen with mankind as they expand across the galaxy. I conceptualized the unique development of governments the same as men explored and developed new nations centuries ago. You then have the formation of different governments, societies, economies, and cultures. The time old issue of resources I speculate will be the necessity for resources, and control there of yielding wealth, power, and influence. Then add the hubris of men, some cool stories can be developed. That’s why I’ve been impressed with certain authors and storylines over the years.
What is one pivotal moment in the story that you think best defines Winston?
I would consider it a small scene – it’s where he’s reading older English literature and he again begins to reflect on the nature of his occupation, what he’s done in the past, moreso with the influence of his wife. Yet I wanted to show he was still dedicated to the family, and hope to show there’s still.
One thing that stands out to me in House Xrion is the creativity embedded in this world. What was your inspiration for creating such and imaginative world?
I worked to develop a what if.
Can we look forward to more work from you soon? What are you currently working on?
I am working on the follow on to House Xrion, and hoping it’ll be just as entertaining a story. Add to this, I’m also working on my original series under my given name, with me now finishing up research for the continuation of the storyline.
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With several houses on the brink of chaos and the threat of growing conflict, the fate of the Council hangs in the balance. Can order be reinstated, or will the machinations of the once-revered House plunge the galaxy into war? Only time will tell as the interstellar tapestry of politics and power unfurls, revealing a house torn between its legacy of service and the shadows of its corrupted soul.
House Xrion
House Xrion, by Ray Jorge Ryes Jr., is an ambitious sci-fi novel set in a future where powerful dynasties have conquered the stars, vying for power, resources, and influence. The story centers on House Xrion, which has established itself as the peacekeeper among the great houses, mediating disputes to prevent unnecessary wars and conserve resources, allowing all to benefit from the wider galaxy. House Xrion’s role has earned it great wealth and respect, as it balances individual conflicts for the greater good. This position requires immense trust, and the house must remain impartial, avoiding any appearance of personal gain. However, the house’s status is threatened when some of its leaders lose sight of their purpose, prioritizing personal gain over their duties. This deception unfolds through the journey of Winston, Xrion’s premier assassin, who uncovers the internal betrayal.
The writing in House Xrion is excellent, and the story, when it gains momentum, is unique and exciting. Ryes has crafted a convincing universe, with a complex backstory that enriches the novel’s events. The expansive scope of the story introduces numerous characters and houses, which I feel can be somewhat overwhelming at times. Despite this, the intricate world-building is a highlight of the book. The first half of the book moves slower as the plot builds, and I believe it might benefit from a more concise introduction. However, once the action escalates, the narrative becomes highly engaging. The characters and overall concept shine through, leaving readers intrigued about the future of Winston and House Xrion.
House Xrion leaves a lasting impression, making readers eager for the next installment in the series. The novel’s strong world-building, compelling characters, and intricate plot make it a noteworthy addition to the sci-fi genre.
Pages: 463 | ASIN : B0CWVFPC4D
Not All Villains are Evil
Light in the Abyss follows the crew of a space frigate who are on a mission to recover a stolen artifact from an alien. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I took my inspiration from the broad tradition of swashbuckling adventure, where the “villain” isn’t necessarily evil, but merely working in opposition to the establishment – as if our heroes were fighting Robin Hood or Aladdin.
I liked the idea of a mastermind thief whom our heroes must match their wits against as much as their swords or cannons – but the thief is also from another species, so there’s a whole new level of complexity. The mission itself is straight-forward: recover the stolen artifact. But having an intelligent, cunning, alien adversary allows for many twists and turns.
There was a lot of time spent crafting the character traits in this novel. What was the most important factor for you to get right in your characters?
My characters are very important to me, so my immediate instinct is to answer “everything”. But kidding aside, what I really want to aim for in my characters is balance. The swashbuckling genre has a long history of heroic men and damsels in distress, and I want to ensure that none of my characters fall into these stereotypes. The men are still heroic, but they’re also kind, thoughtful and mostly humble. The women occasionally still need rescuing, but they’re all strong, intelligent, brave and have agency. I respect each one of my characters and I want to give them, in their own way, the best chance to shine.
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?
I started with the real scientific idea of solar sails, whereby we could propel spaceships toward the outer planets by riding on the “solar wind” that pushes away from the sun. But I realized immediately that this wouldn’t be very interesting in a solar system like ours, where the solar wind only flows in one direction (outward) so I imagined what it might be like in a dense star cluster. All the solar winds from the tightly packed suns would interact with each other, creating currents, storms, etc., which our heroes would need complex sailing ships to navigate. From there I started to imagine a society where civilization was focused in toward the densely packed stars of the Hub, but out in the sparser stars of the Halo, adventure awaits.
It was fun to use the 18th century Age of Sail motif as a starting point for my world-building, although I knew immediately that the racism and sexism of those days had no place in my writing. Introducing the tension between the nobles and commoners helped to fuel early sources of conflict, and having intelligent alien species allowed for the existential threat needed to fuel the need for a powerful space navy.
What will the next book in that series be about, and when will it be published?
The next book in the series is going to bring the Sectoid military threat back to the foreground, and it’s also going to delve deeper into the politics of the aristocracy. And for fans of Sublieutenant Charlotte Brown, she’s going to have a chance to shine.
The release date hasn’t been set yet, but I’ve heard it’s going to be late 2025. I have about 10,000 words downrange so far – I guess I better get cracking.
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As Daring finds itself in a desperate struggle against rogue forces, Liam and Amelia must discern the true motivation of their adversaries before the ship, its crew and their relationship get torn apart forever.
Light in the Abyss
Light in the Abyss, the third installment in Bennett R. Coles’ Blackwood and Virtue series, takes readers on a thrilling journey aboard the spacefaring frigate Daring and her escort ship Freedom. The narrative centers on Lord Commander Liam Blackwood and Quartermaster Amelia Virtue as they embark on a mission to recover a stolen artifact from an alien theropod named Shordar, all while navigating a romance complicated by their differing ranks and societal positions.
Though this novel is part of a series, it stands alone effectively, with only minimal references to previous events. While familiarity with earlier books may enhance understanding of the universe Coles has crafted, new readers will find Light in the Abyss approachable and engaging. The plot focuses primarily on the crew’s confrontation with Shordar and the complexities of interstellar politics, with tantalizing mentions of other alien species. One of the novel’s most refreshing elements is its distinctive setting: spacefaring ships reminiscent of traditional sailing vessels. This unique motif lends the story a sense of realism, grounding the science fiction elements in a familiar framework.
The titles and roles aboard the ships echo historical naval traditions, adding depth to the world-building. The portrayal of social politics within the human empire further enriches the narrative, highlighting the struggles of the characters against rigid social structures.
At the heart of the story is the pursuit of a stolen artifact known as the suncatcher, which serves primarily as a plot device to drive character development. Blackwood and Virtue’s personal and professional challenges, especially their struggle against the societal constraints of their empire, are poignantly depicted. Coles excels in portraying their emotional turmoil, making their journey as compelling as the external conflict with Shordar.
Light in the Abyss delivers a captivating blend of space adventure and character-driven drama. Bennett R. Coles skillfully balances action and emotion, creating a rich, immersive experience for readers, whether they are long-time fans of the series or newcomers.
Pages: 435 | ASIN : B0D1ZY4MP5
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
