Blog Archives
Love and Tolerance
In The Artifact, a young man acquires a technologically advanced artifact that allows him to glimpse the future and finds himself fighting to keep it out of the hands of forces seeking to control the world. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The story was born when it occurred to me how two ideas I’ve long been fascinated with–the artifact that foretells the future, and the disrespect shown to the dead and Egyptian heritage by Westerners raiding the Pyramids–could be related. What if an artifact that had never been publicized offered its possessor powers of prophecy? I knew the main character should be a young adult because people in that age range are interested in the future in such a unique way–first realizing how so many possibilities exist, and how choices affect their futures, but in ways that can be difficult to predict.
What was your favorite character to write for and why?
The main character, Linc, was the most fun to write–and the most challenging because he is not like me–my mother was not an attorney, my father was not killed in Afghanistan (and was not a soldier), and I never wanted to be an architect. So I had to let Linc teach me what it was like to live that life–and I had to remember what, in general, it was like to be 17 years old. But the adventure Linc lives–and the challenges he survives–these were the thrill of a lifetime, for him and for me and, I hope, for the reader.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
In addition to themes of wondering about the future and having respect for other cultures, the need to respect other people and the differences we encounter every day was paramount. So as a young person with friends who are just figuring out who they are and coming to terms with questions of gender roles and orientation, Linc knows an attitude of tolerance is essential. When he asks his mother why she married a soldier even though she hates war, she tells him things are not always simple: “You love who you love.” Love and tolerance are easy virtues to lose, but we must have them to survive.
Another theme was how history creates the present. From the turbulence of the Watergate years in the US and the realities of Project MKUltra Delta to the terror of September 11, 2001, Linc learns the history that made the world he has to live in. Everything in the present has roots in the past.
Can readers look forward to seeing more work from you soon?
Yes! My new novel, The Delphi, has just hit the shelves (both real and virtual ones). It’s about politics, money, mythology, the need for safe elections, and–you guessed it–history! How did we get to wherever this strange place called the present is? Who is this Cleo person who has so much mystery and power surrounding her? It all started a long time ago . . .
Author Links: Bluesky | Facebook | The Artifact | Website | Amazon
fiction story set in the mostly real world of Louisville, Kentucky, and
surrounding areas. Seventeen-year-old Linc is a fan of old movies,
Egyptology, and pyramids. Raised by a single mom who works as an
environmental lawyer, he spends a lot of time watching old movies with
his very close friends Lonnie and Julie. Linc is unwittingly drafted to take
possession of a mysterious artifact, a high-tech electronic device
with connections to ancient Egypt. The artifact allows the possessor
to have visions of the future, but, Linc and his friends soon discover, at a
high cost.
The main character, Linc, and his friends are young people dealing with
issues that speak to readers of diverse ages and backgrounds. Books
with similarities include Jennifer Egan’s The Keep, Jodi Picoult’s
Where There’s Smoke, Harry Potter and the Sorceror’s Stone, Mindwalker
by A. J. Steiger, and Stephen King’s Later.
David Rogers was a reader before he became a writer, so he
learned to appreciate Elmore Leonard’s rule to leave out the parts
readers skip anyway. The Artifact is all story, all the time, and is
intended to accomplish two tasks above all else–allow the reader to
identify with the characters, and keep the reader curious about what
happens next.
The Artifact
David Rogers’ The Artifact is a captivating young adult novel brimming with unexpected twists and turns. This fast-paced, mysterious thriller offers ominous settings and intricate plots, all while weaving an inclusive love story between teenagers discovering themselves amidst life’s challenges. The writing is enigmatic and enchanting, drawing readers into the rapidly unfolding events. The protagonist’s direct engagement with the reader makes readers feel like a part of the story, experiencing his ordeals firsthand. This book is not just a thrilling read but also a catalyst for important discussions about identity, acceptance, and the power of love.
The story centers on Linc, a seventeen-year-old with a passion for Egyptology and classic movies. Through a mysterious series of events, he acquires an unknown artifact that grants him the ability to see the future—but at a significant cost. Linc soon realizes he is entangled in a much larger conflict, with powerful individuals and agencies vying for control of the artifact. As the plot thickens, Linc is kidnapped and subjected to experiments designed to exploit his newfound abilities. These powerful forces aim to control not only him but the future of the world.
The Artifact stands out for its exceptional inclusivity and LGBTQ+ friendliness, sparking meaningful discussions about sexuality and acceptance among young people and their families. Rogers skillfully initiates deep, thought-provoking conversations about the philosophy of life through his young characters. The author balances the mystery and thrill with a generous dose of humor, often eliciting laughter through Linc’s witty puns.
The Artifact‘s tone perfectly suits its teenage audience, blending humor, mystery, and engagement. Whether you’re fascinated by Egyptology or simply looking for a gripping narrative, David Rogers’ novel offers something for everyone to enjoy.
Pages: 193 | ASIN : B0C7DR1WQX
LITERARY TITAN 