Blog Archives
Angelfyre
Angelfyre, the first book in Lydan Francis’s series, introduces readers to Casey, a half-human, half-alien teenager. The story begins with Casey waking up after a fight to discover a mysterious device implanted in her head. As she navigates this new reality, Casey learns she is connected to the most advanced AI in existence and pilots a powerful ship. With the military determined to control or destroy her ship, Casey finds herself on the run.
Casey is a fascinating character, and her growth as she discovers the capabilities of Angelfyre is a highlight. Her journey offers a vivid glimpse into the universe Francis has created, rich with detail and intrigue. The focus remains primarily on Casey, emphasizing that this is her story. Her interactions with Angel, the AI of Angelfyre, are particularly engaging and provide insight into both characters. The narrative occasionally shifts to other characters’ perspectives, but these moments are brief and serve to enhance the story. This approach maintains the focus on Casey, ensuring readers stay connected to her experiences. The story starts with an interesting use of the second person, which might initially feel unusual. However, the narrative soon transitions to a more conventional perspective, greatly enhancing the reading experience. The worldbuilding in Angelfyre is intricate, adding depth to the story. There are opportunities to integrate explanations more seamlessly into the narrative, enhancing the reader’s immersion. Exploring Casey’s heritage and the challenges she faces through her perspective makes the storytelling feel organic and engaging.
Angelfyre is a compelling read, particularly once the narrative settles into Casey’s viewpoint. Francis’s unique and immersive universe allows readers to journey firsthand with Casey on this intriguing adventure. This is a wonderful start to this space opera series, and readers have much to look forward to in future installments.
Pages: 534 | ASIN : B0BX33N96Y
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
Vermilion Flames: Midnight War Book 1
Vermilion Flames, Book 1 in the Midnight War series by Adam Fernandez, is a riveting science fiction novel that combines space opera elements with political intrigue. Set in the year 4103 U.E.T., it explores a tumultuous solar system where humanity, now spread across various planets and moons, grapples with new societal and political challenges. The story primarily revolves around Kaya Vardan, a young Mercury-born noblewoman with a thirst for adventure and rebellion, and Silas Beckett, a high-ranking officer in the Pandora Fleet entangled in the conflict with the Vermilion Coalition. Fernandez weaves a complex tapestry of interstellar politics, power struggles, and personal discovery, delivering a future where humanity’s expansion into space is as fraught with conflict as it is with opportunity.
Fernandez’s writing is both vivid and detailed, successfully painting a universe rich with futuristic technology and diverse cultures. While I appreciated the author’s talent in crafting a believable and intricate world, I found the narrative’s pace somewhat heavy with technical details. Fans of meticulously constructed settings will find much to admire in this book.
The novel shines in its character development, particularly with Kaya, whose journey from a restless noble to a pivotal figure in the solar system’s politics is compelling and nuanced. Silas Beckett’s character arc, marked by moral dilemmas and leadership challenges, provides a fascinating counterpoint, offering insight into the complexities of power and duty.
I enjoyed the thematic exploration of rebellion, authority, and the ethics of leadership. Fernandez doesn’t shy away from presenting the darker aspects of human nature and governance, encapsulating the struggle for power in a vast universe. The subplot involving the remnants of the Solar Empire and the forsaken populations adds depth, highlighting the societal disparities that often accompany technological and territorial expansion. I find the novel’s themes thought-provoking, and the philosophical underpinnings add depth to its unique charm and intellectual appeal.
Vermilion Flames is a testament to Fernandez’s ability to craft a world that is as expansive as it is intricate. The novel is an excellent pick for readers who enjoy science fiction that combines space exploration with political intrigue. Its detailed world-building and complex characters will particularly appeal to fans of space operas and those who appreciate a narrative that delves into the ethical dilemmas of leadership and power.
Vermilion Flames is an ambitious and engaging read, ideal for sci-fi fans who revel in richly constructed universes and complex character arcs. Its examination of power, rebellion, and the human condition set against the backdrop of a futuristic solar system makes it a noteworthy addition to the genre.
Pages: 415 | ASIN : B0CTYWBX2P
Bringer of Light
In Bringer of Light, M. Thomas Apple presents a captivating vision of future space settlement, crafting a narrative set against the backdrop of political intrigue and advanced technology. The story unfolds on the moon and Mars, where Bardish, a figure whose life resonates with success, feels like a mere pawn in the hands of powerful factions. Meanwhile, Weng, accompanied by Clarissa, anticipates establishing a new home on Mars, now a burgeoning center for space exploration.
Apple skillfully weaves a sci-fi tapestry that integrates alien and supernatural elements with humanity’s quest to explore the cosmos. As Mars stands on the cusp of a transformative settlement influenced by enigmatic alien species, the Artemis crew encounters voices and revelations, offering insights into the universe’s workings. The novel’s multi-perspective narrative allows readers to experience a diverse array of viewpoints, adding depth to the unfolding plot. The political machinations depicted, featuring a race for advancement and power struggles among various nations including China, India, Russia, and the United Americas, enrich the story with a sense of realism and complexity. The book’s use of poetic language creates a dreamlike atmosphere, with alien voices permeating the consciousness of both characters and readers, sparking contemplation about the vastness of the universe.
Fans of science fiction will be particularly impressed by the depiction of futuristic technologies, such as regenerative nanotech and bio-engineered organs, that push the boundaries of human capability. I feel the novel’s multifaceted narrative and intricate world-building, while offering a rich tapestry of political dynamics, may present an engaging challenge to some readers. This complexity encourages a deeper exploration of the story, inviting readers to actively engage with its layers and the subtle intricacies of character development and motivations.
Bringer of Light holds appeal for its imaginative setting and thought-provoking themes. Readers who appreciate a blend of speculative technology and introspective musings on the universe will find this book a stimulating read. I do believe, however, that there is room for even deeper character exploration within this intriguing narrative. For fans of science fiction, M. Thomas Apple’s novel offers a glimpse into a future filled with wonder and complexity.
Pages: 418 | ASIN : B0CVX15VSL
A Son of the Shadows: The Earthborn Saga Vol. I
A Son of the Shadows by Steven Bissett transports readers to the frigid, dystopian realm of Delta-13, a planet under the iron fist of Earth’s empire. This narrative skillfully intertwines the plight of Rex Hunt, a man condemned to eke out an existence in the harsh town of Midway due to his father’s rebellion, with a richly woven backdrop of political intrigue and survival. Rex, ostensibly a greenhouse worker, leads a clandestine life as a scavenger of alien artifacts, aiding the Underground resistance, spearheaded by his charismatic friend, Antonin Gromyko. Intriguingly, the story also introduces Wellesley, a snarky AI housed in a medallion from the ancient Kol-Prockian civilization, adding a unique technological twist to the tale. The plot thickens as Rex discovers increasing turmoil within the Underground and hears rumors of a new technology enabling authorities to penetrate their defenses. Concurrently, a mysterious illness strikes prisoners, drawing the empire’s attention and the arrival of the unconventional psychiatrist, Lily Tselitel.
The narrative excels in its exploration of the human psyche through Lily’s professional insights and Rex’s introspective journeys, delving into themes of ego and consciousness. Bissett showcases his grasp of these complex concepts through well-researched and thoughtful prose. The story’s pace is brisk, with unexpected revelations that add layers of mystery and keep the reader engaged. Moments of humor and levity, particularly through the banter between Antonin and Wellesley and the blossoming romance between Rex and Lily, provide a welcome respite from the overarching somberness of their surroundings.
The book’s thorough engagement with complex philosophical ideas and its use of sophisticated language offers a rewarding challenge to the reader, encouraging thoughtful pauses to savor the narrative’s depth. The story features dynamic character development, including a surprising twist with a key character that adds an element of intrigue, suggesting unexplored depths that might captivate some readers’ imaginations. This creative choice contributes to the novel’s richness and does not diminish its enjoyment.
A Son of the Shadows is a commendable choice for enthusiasts of dystopian fiction, blending intellectual discourse, resistance against oppressive regimes, and a touch of romance set against a frozen, foreboding landscape. With its compelling characters and intriguing plot, this novel will captivate readers who relish a story that challenges both the heart and the mind.
Pages: 479 | ASIN : B0CHV6484N
Forbidden Horizon Abyss of Might
Forbidden Horizon Abyss of Might by David Crane is a science fiction narrative that unfolds in the 22nd century, a time when humanity is no longer alone in the universe. The story begins with an intriguing premise: in 2098, David Blackstone’s voyage to Proxima Centauri coincides with discovering the Xalin, an alien species. This leads to a tenuous truce between Earth and the Xalin. The protagonist, David’s grandson, Tom Blackstone, continues the family legacy as a space explorer. Alongside Linda Saperas, his fellow explorer, Tom encounters a distress call that thrusts them into a conflict between two rival corporations.
This novel revisits some classic science fiction elements, notably the conflict between human ambition and extraterrestrial forces, reminiscent of the thematic exploration in Ridley Scott’s “Alien” films. The narrative is richly layered with space exploration, political maneuvering, and corporate subterfuge. The portrayal of the Xalin as a logical and detached race contrasts sharply with the morally ambiguous motives of humanity, particularly the corporations engaged in off-world hostilities. While not overly dynamic characters, Tom Blackstone and Linda Saperas provide a reliable and grounding presence that stabilizes the narrative through its intricate and evolving plots.
Forbidden Horizon Abyss of Might delves into the human response to advancing technology and the presence of existential threats. This theme resonates with contemporary concerns, though the narrative presents a somewhat unsettling perspective on these issues. Crane’s work offers a reflective, if occasionally disconcerting, look at humanity’s place in the cosmos and our reactions to the unknown.
Pages: 284 | ASIN : B0CQHY5HYC
The Blue Star: First Locality Adventure
Set in a distant future where space travel connects various alien civilizations, The Blue Star: First Locality Adventure, by Justin Caleb, immerses readers in a universe where interstellar colonization is commonplace. Amidst this backdrop of technological marvels, a devastating plague emerges, threatening to decimate life across the galaxy. This narrative follows Torina Jadus of the Tuulan For and her crew on their urgent quest to discover a cure for this malignant contagion.
Caleb’s narrative bears a striking resemblance to classic sci-fi tropes, notably those in the Star Trek series, while also echoing the tense, epidemic-focused narratives of films like Outbreak and Contagion. The novel gains a contemporary resonance in our post-pandemic world, evoking inevitable comparisons to Covid-19, albeit with a more dramatic and horrifying twist as it ravages the personalities and identities of the afflicted, adding a layer of horror to the science fiction setting.
Caleb skillfully intertwines themes of fear and identity, suggesting that the terror induced by the virus is as potent as the disease itself. This element of the narrative not only heightens the tension but also explores the universal fear of losing one’s identity, a theme that resonates across species and civilizations. The novel posits that this shared fear could be the foundation for understanding and connecting with non-human entities in the realm of advanced technology. The Blue Star: First Locality Adventure distinguishes itself by crafting a sense of existential dread, positioning the virus as a formidable antagonist. This emotional depth keeps readers engrossed up to the concluding page, showcasing Caleb’s adept storytelling. The novel’s ability to maintain engagement throughout is a testament to its effectiveness, transcending genre boundaries to deliver a compelling and thought-provoking read.
Justin Caleb’s The Blue Star: First Locality Adventure is a gripping contribution to the science fiction genre. Its exploration of universal themes like fear, identity, and the quest for understanding in the face of an unknown threat offers a fresh perspective on familiar tropes. The novel’s blend of suspense, emotional depth, and a well-crafted plot ensures a captivating reading experience. Caleb’s narrative prowess in combining elements of horror with science fiction serves to engage and provoke thought in readers, making this book a noteworthy and intriguing read for enthusiasts of the genre and beyond.
Pages: 453 | ASIN : B0CLTQ2VV1
A Story of Growth and Independence
Night Owls follows a space crew living on the moon who, while on a heist, discover a lethal conspiracy that will destroy the colony if not stopped. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I grew up near Toronto, Canada and loved rocket ships, robots and exploring space. I even won an award for building a crazy robot out of trash in second grade. Naturally, I fell in love with science fiction. As a teenager I loved the Canadian Electronic Music scene, having fun, dressing up, and joking around. NIGHT OWLS brings my love of electronic music together with my love of science and technology.
My goal was to write a sci-fi novel that primarily entertains with action, adventure and charm. But underneath, the book explores classism, personal sacrifice, and the need to overcome personal obstacles. Night Owls is accessible to all readers, since the story line is rooted in science, but would not be classified as hard science fiction.
Ethan Keller goes from being a thief to an unlikely hero when he discovers a plot to destroy the colony. What were some driving ideals behind your character’s development?
I wrote a graphic novel called Why Always Wins focused on empowering high performing teams. So in Night Owls, I wanted to focus on the main character development and the ragtag team overcoming obstacles together.
Ethan is struggling with his fathers death and trying to understand his personal sacrifice. Ethan must go on a journey to understand what sacrifice means to him. The Night Owls series is really about the entire group of main characters evolving and moving beyond their individual needs, but understanding how each other can grow, support the group and overcome personal obstacles.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
Night Owls is a book geared towards entertainment, but I wanted to explore classicism, confidence, community and clarity of purpose. Ethan’s father died when he was young, and he has struggled to understand and forgive his father’s sacrifice. While Ethan is the catalyst to bring together the Night Owls, he struggles with his social status as he is forced to compare himself with his girlfriend, Aysha Nadar, who is heiress to the singular industrial titan on Luna. Night Owls explores his growth, and their relationship. Night Owls is about growth, not just character growth, but also the growth and independence of the moon colony.
Where does the story go in the next book, and where do you see it going in the future?
Good news, I’ve written all seven books in the Night Owls series, so I know the end of the story already. Symphony Night Owls 2 is available on Amazon. While Book 1 launches Ethan Keller and the Night Owls as a newly formed group that can have an impact on the trajectory of New Luna, Symphony explores the group’s ability to come together and face a new enemy. The book explores the political tension between Earth, Luna, and Mars as the crew becomes embroiled in the struggle for Luna’s independence. The Night Owls each face a significant change in their personal lives, and Ethan in particular wrestles with grasping a future with the woman he loves due to her increasing association with her father’s company, her intensive work schedule, and his growing fear that even love can’t win a class war.
The entire Night Owls series continues to focus on the evolution of Ethan Keller and his friends the Night Owls, against the backdrop of an evolving New Luna, a colony that is struggling to find its independence against the threat of control from Earth, Mars and various political and corporate forces driven by greed. I hope you enjoy the action packed adventure of Night Owls.
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Website | Instagram
Ethan Keller, an unapologetic thief, is stuck in the poorest district on Luna, where random power outages have left several dead. When his big score is stolen, Ethan and the Night Owls—his motley crew—plan a heist to recoup the loss. Instead, they uncover the source of the deadly power outages. Distressingly, the culprit appears to be someone close to them.
Now a fugitive, will Ethan unmask the mastermind in time to save the colony?
If you like science fiction action adventure with clever heroes and impossible situations, Get started with Night Owls today!
LITERARY TITAN 