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What Is Time?
Slow Space follows a physicist, his partner, and a young man from a troubled background who become entangled with a space mining corporation that takes them to the far reaches of space, where they inadvertently alter the course of human destiny.
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?
Thank you…I like that. Science fiction should be all about possibility. The setting came from the idea that time is actually impossible to comprehend. I wanted to feel like our weeks, months and years are just a drop in the ocean of a universe that’s 13 billion years old so far. Having the near future juxtaposed with the far future seemed like the best way to really try and feel that hugeness. So, I asked myself, ‘where do I think the world will be in 30 years and why?’ Once I answered that I had my setting and then I wanted the contrast with the far future to be surprising.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
Apart from seeing ourselves in the context of the time the universe will exist there is a smaller theme looking at the way we react to crisis and things we perceive as a threat. A couple of the characters do some quite shocking things, in part, because they perceive threats that may, or may not be there. So, what does a world of angry reaction look like, as opposed to a world of lifting up those around us and working towards a common goal?
What is the next book that you’re working on and when can your fans expect it out?
Well, I think I have 6 fans at the moment! But SLOW SPACE has had a lot of great feedback and I am hoping to find some more like-minded people who love classic science fiction and the wonder that it always brings. As for book number 2, it is early days but I am writing. I want to improve as an author so I’m not rushing. Putting this book out has been a great journey for me and I want to work harder and make the next story even better.
Author Links: GoodReads | Instagram | BlueSky
Well, meet these three people…
Brax Bratton has the greatest mind of his generation. A physicist and thinker to rival Einstein, he gets anxious if he has to leave his own home town. But his journey will lead him incredibly far from there, and in the process, he will lose everything.
Luis Briggs comes from a poor immigrant family with an abusive mother. He finds himself, just 11 years old, at the mercy of the powerful Destiny Space Mining Corporation with one dream. To become a ship’s Captain.
Jess Weston finds that events change her life irrevocably but her powerlessness in the face of a corporate future of conquest meets an unlikely ally…the most powerful AI in the world.
Together, these three are tossed rapidly on the winds of change encountering harrowing conflicts and incredible adventure, making a shocking and immeasurable impact on the future of humanity.
Slow Space
Lucian Phillips’ Slow Space is an ambitious, sweeping sci-fi novel that blends deep philosophical musings with an engaging human story. It follows Brax Bratton, a brilliant yet socially withdrawn physicist, and Luis Briggs, a determined young man from a troubled background, as they become entangled with Destiny Space Mining Corporation and a growing resistance against the encroachment of AI into human existence. Their journey, along with Brax’s partner Jess, takes them to the far reaches of space, where they inadvertently alter the course of human destiny. The book is more than a spacefaring adventure; it’s a meditation on artificial intelligence, corporate control, and the nature of time itself.
One of the book’s strongest aspects is its richly developed characters. Brax, an academic genius crippled by anxiety, is a refreshing take on the classic scientist archetype. His relationship with Jess, introduced with a wonderfully awkward first meeting at a party, brings warmth and humanity to the novel. The interplay between his intellectual brilliance and social ineptitude is both humorous and deeply relatable. Meanwhile, Briggs’ gritty backstory of abuse and struggle adds a stark contrast, showing the harsh realities of a world increasingly dominated by corporations. His escape from his mother’s violence and his unwavering determination to become a Ship’s Captain are some of the novel’s most emotionally gripping moments. These character-driven elements ground the high-concept sci-fi themes in something real and personal.
The novel also excels in its world-building. The depiction of Destiny Space Mining Corporation is chillingly believable, painting a future where corporations operate beyond the reach of governments, effectively ruling space with their own laws and enforcement. The concept of AI control, embodied by Baby Blue, adds a layer of tension throughout the story. The early scene with the humanoid robot warning of the dangers of AI before self-destructing in Amsterdam is a haunting introduction to the stakes at play. Later, the underground resistance movement, The Spammers, brings a cyberpunk edge to the narrative, evoking classic sci-fi themes of rebellion against unchecked technological power. The pacing, at times, feels deliberately slow, almost as if mimicking the vastness of space itself, but the moments of action and revelation keep the story moving forward.
Despite its strengths, Slow Space has moments where its philosophical digressions slow the momentum. Brax’s musings on the heartbeat of the universe and the nature of time, while intriguing, sometimes pull away from the immediate stakes of the narrative. There are times when the novel’s scope seems to stretch a little too far, almost losing sight of its core characters amidst its grander themes. Phillips manages to keep it grounded just enough with moments of personal struggle and triumph, such as Briggs’ fight for recognition within the corporation or Jess’ growing frustration with Brax’s unwillingness to change.
Slow Space is a thought-provoking and emotionally engaging sci-fi novel that will appeal to readers who enjoy a mix of hard science fiction, philosophical exploration, and deeply human storytelling. Fans of The Expanse or Blade Runner will find much to appreciate here, especially those interested in AI ethics and corporate dystopias. While the novel’s slower sections may not be for everyone, those willing to immerse themselves in its depth will be rewarded with a rich, layered narrative that lingers long after the final page.
Pages: 370 | ASIN : B0DL7K3C1G
Time Travel Tugged At Me
Black Cliff Chronicles follows two high school seniors who become lost on a hike, and they wind up traveling back in time 300 years into a horrific civil war. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
During the Pandemic, I finished writing The Youngest Doughboy screenplay, the story of the youngest American soldier in WWI – 12-years-old – and was looking for around for another project when I remembered a news story about an incident that happened years ago. A woman and a man hijacked a bus in a small town in Arkansas and begged the local police to kill them. They were members of an odd little church and said they would be resurrected three days after their death. The police did everything they could to save the pair, but in the end, both died.
I asked myself what if the man and woman were telling the truth and were resurrected three days later? And then I thought, what if they were pawns in a larger story, a political plot perhaps, a plot that might even threaten the entire country? The idea of time travel tugged at me. It felt right. That was the start of Black Cliff Chronicles.
When you first sat down to write this story, did you know where you were going, or did the twists come as you were writing?
The story grew organically with wonderful characters, ideas, and incidents seemingly appearing out of nowhere following the inciting incident – the bridge where the bus hijacking takes place.
I did a tremendous amount of research into the past events featured in the story. The chief historical event was the awful 1648 Cossack uprising in the Ukraine and its mass murdering general Bohdan Khmelnytsky.That research led to new avenues to pursue. Khmelnytsky became the novel’s antagonist.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
Courage, selflessness, and bravery are the themes that fill the main action. We feel what our heroes are feeling – fear, hope, and the determination to succeed without regard to cost. Selflessness adds poignancy to the story.
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?
Black Cliff Chronicles is written as a standalone novel. I’d like to write two more entries in the Black Cliff universe. Black Cliff Chronicles takes place at the millennium. Book Two will be located in time around 2016. Book Three will concern events in the 2030s or 40s. At least that is the plan.
Author Links: GoodReads | Amazon
The thriving university town of New Jerusalem nestles in the secluded hill country north of the Ozark National Forest in rural Arkansas. New Jerusalem is a wonderful place to put down roots as long as you don’t go into the experimental forest and find Black Cliff, a place of dark power.
Was it a simple misstep in 1989 when high school seniors Mary Sanders and Charlie Barrows became lost during a fall hike and stood facing Black Cliff? Or were other forces at play?
Before they can flee, Black Cliff entangles Mary in a web of time travel, strands that transport her back 300 years in history to a horrific civil war and a daring solo rescue mission.
Months later, Mary returns to New Jerusalem and to 1989, battered by her war experiences and heartsick over those she left behind. Once home, her struggles continue. Time travelers and friends gather to help Mary and Charlie. They have less than three days to rescue America from a plot to seize the presidency.
Trust Yourself
The Whispers of Destiny follows a 12-year-old girl who discovers she can hear spirits leading her on a journey involving time travel; her mission is to unlock the power within her younger self. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
Every lesson embedded in the book stems from that idea—trust yourself, follow your intuition because it truly guides you, love yourself unconditionally, make choices that align with who you truly are, and always remember that positive self-talk matters. Throughout the book, there are gentle reminders that we all have a purpose.
In a lot of contemporary coming-of-age fiction novels, authors often add their own life experiences to the story. Are there any bits of you in this story?
Absolutely! Emma is a reflection of me, and many of her experiences echo my own. Like Emma, I’ve always had to rely on my intuition—though I realized its power later in life. Learning to trust myself and align with who I truly am has been life-changing. There are moments in the book, particularly in Chapters 11 and 19, that are directly inspired by my own experiences. This story is as much an adventure as it is a guide for young readers. It is my story, and it’s deeply personal.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
In Whispers of Destiny, the journey is one of truth—one that whispers to the soul and stirs the heart. At its core, this story is about trusting oneself because within each of us lies a knowing you can’t shake—a voice too often drowned by doubt or fear. That voice is always there, waiting for us to trust it. Our intuition is the spirit’s quiet compass, not steering us away from struggle, but guiding us toward the lessons we are meant to learn.
I wanted to explore the power of positive self-talk—the quiet incantations we tell ourselves that shape our reality. Words—whether whispered to ourselves or spoken into the world—hold the power to build and heal. Speak to yourself as you would to the universe—with reverence, with love, with belief.
This book is also a journey through time and self-discovery, a reflection on the past not as something to regret, but as something to understand. Healing is an act of honoring both who we have been and who we are becoming. We are not bound by the mistakes of yesterday, nor must we fear the uncertainty of tomorrow. Within us lives an untapped strength—a quiet but undeniable force waiting to be embraced.
Through Emma’s journey, I hope young readers recognize their own power—to shape their destiny, rise beyond fear, and step boldly into the light of who they are meant to be.
Where does the story go in the next book, and where do you see it going in the future?
I’ve already begun writing the second book, allowing the story to unfold organically and letting Emma and Lucy’s growth feel both natural and extraordinary. Natural, because they’re two young girls growing and learning, and extraordinary because of their gift and unique lineage. What I can say for certain is that the next book is about strength and transformation—about rising through struggle and discovering the power that was within them all along. I’ve even written a poem for the next book, capturing the essence of resilience, growth, and strength. But Emma’s journey is far from over. We’ve yet to see what she’s truly capable of when she fully embraces her power and puts her mind to it.
Author Links: GoodReads | X | Facebook | Website
As Emma faces trials that test her courage, heart, and intuition, she learns to trust not only the spirit that guides her but also the strength of her mind, body, and soul. Along the way, she uncovers secrets from her family’s past, deepens her bond with her mother, and discovers the ripple effects of the choices we make.
But as Emma’s journey unfolds, the stakes rise higher. The timeline she seeks to protect is fragile, and the choices she faces could alter everything. With the spirit as her guide and her heart as her compass, Emma must navigate the fine line between destiny and free will.
Black Cliff Chronicles
Black Cliff Chronicles is an imaginative dive into the lives of ordinary people thrust into extraordinary circumstances, wrapped in a mix of speculative fiction and historical intrigue. The book chronicles the lives of its eclectic characters including Mary and Charlie as they encounter the enigmatic and dangerous mysteries surrounding Black Cliff. With a blend of thrilling action, historical depth, and deeply emotional character arcs, Steve Sterling creates a story that is as unsettling as it is captivating.
What really pulled me into this story was the dynamic relationship between Mary and Charlie, particularly their journey of evolving friendship and creative partnership. They felt real, and their banter was delightful to read. For instance, their brainstorming sessions over story ideas felt so natural. I felt it was a perfect blend of youthful creativity and camaraderie. But what makes their story resonate with me is the way they stumble into the surreal experience of Black Cliff. That chilling moment when Mary touches the cliff and collapses, only to awaken with knowledge and language from another era, was gripping.
Sterling’s strength lies in his ability to weave historical moments seamlessly into his story. A standout example is Mary’s “spirit walk” into Mussolini-era Rome, which was equal parts vivid and disturbing. The book slows its momentum by delving deeply into the backstory of certain historical figures and events. The sights, sounds, and oppressive atmosphere of fascist Italy were vivid. Sterling doesn’t just recount history, he drags you into it.
The deeper layers of this book, its exploration of free will, destiny, and the consequences of meddling with time, are thought-provoking. Reverend Blough’s chilling cult-like influence and his plans for a supposed resurrection added an ominous and almost gothic undertone to the story. The concept of “spirit walks,” where individuals’ consciousnesses merge with others from the past, felt both innovative and eerie. It made me pause and think about the cost of knowledge and the weight of being tethered to moments in history. Occasionally, the richness of these ideas made the plot feel a bit dense. The narrative’s ambition is impressive, though it sometimes stretches itself. I felt a few threads could have benefited from more development.
Black Cliff Chronicles is a strange and wondrous book that blends time travel, history, and a splash of thriller. If you enjoy speculative fiction that leans heavily on character-driven stories and historical intrigue, this book is for you. Fans of authors like Neal Stephenson or Connie Willis will likely find a lot to love here.
Pages: 365 | ASIN : B0DVQGCMJB
The Present World Situation
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Portrait of an Innocent Girl follows a man who transcends space and time and finds himself in Nazi-era Vienna on a mission to locate a haunting painting stolen during WWII. Where did the idea for this novel come from?
First, I want to thank you for having me. As for the idea, I was trying to come up with something that would flow from Volume 1 of the series, which also dealt with art. I also wanted something that felt current, and with the present world situation and the rise in hate, I felt that going back to Nazi Germany would resonate. That led to a natural discourse about the state of antisemitism in this country during the World War II years.
Can you share with us a little about the research that went into putting this book together?
Yes. The research revolved around art that had been stolen by the Nazi regime and remained missing. While the artist and the art in the story are fictional, I drew from real art that had been taken. I also drew from real life events as much as possible. The research into the state of affairs in the United States in the years leading up to World War II was quite eye-opening.
What challenges have you faced in writing complex plots?
The most challenging aspects are ensuring that a change, or new plot point, doesn’t adversely effect something which had already been written earlier in the story. I think my legal training, and having spent so much time drafting legal documents, which presents a similar issue, has helped. I know some authors who keep spreadsheets to assist them. I keep it all in my head. The middle-of-the-night awakenings are frequent!
Can we look forward to Volume 3 soon? Where will it take readers?
I think a Volume 3 may be in my future. I like to take time in between the books in a series to write something different, and I’ve just completed a new manuscript which is totally unrelated to the Watching series. As for where Volume 3 will take readers, that is still yet to be determined, but I do have some ideas swimming around the cranium. We’ll have to wait and see.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website
Along with Watchings, this time Josh also experiences a new paranormal pheonomenon-visits-as he ventures into the past to discover the current whereabouts of the haunting painting.
Ignoring the physical toll and near-death dangers of non-corporeal time travel, he visits Nazi Germany, Austria, and South America, attempting to achieve a measure of justice for those wronged by the Nazi regime.
Assisted by his wife Adrian, FBI Special Agent Starling Herbert, and Interpol Investigator Dubois, they race a cabal of present-day Nazis to retrieve the stolen art.
Along the way, Josh is surprised to learn how family ties are wound into this story he could not ignore.
The Whispers of Destiny
The Whispers of Destiny follows Emma Montgomery, a young woman drawn into a mystical path guided by whispers from an unseen force. As she unravels the power within her, she must face trials of courage, doubt, and self-discovery, all while uncovering the deep spiritual legacy that binds her to something greater. Through time travel, hidden knowledge, and encounters with both light and shadow, Emma’s journey becomes one of fate, personal strength, and trust in the unknown.
Shani Night’s writing is incredibly immersive. From the very first page, the prose hums with an almost lyrical quality, like the story itself is whispering to the reader. The opening scene, where Emma is thrust into a moment of destiny, is breathtaking. The way Night describes the forest, the key, and the ethereal presence guiding Emma is vivid, painting the setting with a blend of magic and inevitability. One of my favorite passages comes early on: “The trees stood like silent sentinels, their branches weaving a canopy of shadow and starlight.” It’s the kind of writing that makes you slow down and savor each word.
The ideas in Whispers of Destiny are what truly hooked me. This isn’t just a fantasy story it’s a meditation on belief, intuition, and the power of choice. Emma’s tests feel deeply personal yet universal, especially when she faces the “shadow” of her doubts. One of the most striking moments is when Emma encounters a darker version of herself, a manifestation of her fears, telling her she’s not strong enough. That scene hit hard. Who hasn’t had that inner voice whispering doubts? The novel does a brilliant job of balancing adventure with introspection, making it more than just an escapist read it feels like a guidebook for anyone navigating their own uncertain path.
The themes are rich, and the writing is beautifully crafted, creating a deeply immersive experience. The dialogue often carries a sense of profound insight, adding to the novel’s thoughtful tone. Lucy, as a character, is truly endearing, embodying powerful themes that make her presence especially meaningful.
I’d recommend this book to anyone who loves thoughtful, atmospheric fantasy with a strong spiritual undercurrent. If you’re drawn to stories about fate, self-discovery, and the quiet magic that lives in everyday moments, this one is for you. Whispers of Destiny isn’t just a story, it’s an experience, a whisper in the wind asking, Are you ready to listen?
Pages: 148 | ASIN : B0DTJGRWZQ
When to Fire
When to Fire, Ryan Standley’s latest novella, is a captivating blend of classic Western grit and mind-bending science fiction. What begins as a traditional tale of a legendary gunslinger on the run evolves into a narrative filled with unexpected twists reminiscent of Planet of the Apes. Standley’s ability to merge these genres creates a story that is both surprising and thrilling. The novella introduces us to a trio of infamous bandits: Chaske, Euna, and Matt Frimm, known as the Pistol Kid. Their exploits across the frontier, robbing banks to fund the Native cause against an oppressive federal government, form the story’s foundation. When a heist goes awry, Chaske is killed, leaving Euna and Matt to navigate a dangerous path of survival, rebellion, and personal discovery—all while chasing the mystery of Matt’s missing parents.
Initially, the plot unfolds with a familiar, almost predictable rhythm. The Pistol Kid channels a Robin Hood-like charm, a rogue with a noble heart hidden beneath his swagger. Euna, too, follows a well-worn archetype of the strong, determined outlaw. Yet, as the story progresses, these familiar tropes give way to something far more intricate. After an audacious bank heist spirals into chaos, the narrative takes a sharp turn. Matt gains access to a mysterious power that transforms him into a “Seer,” granting visions of the past and future. This newfound ability elevates him from a sharpshooting outlaw to a near-supernatural force. Standley uses these powers to craft exhilarating action scenes, where Matt’s precognitive edge allows him to dominate gunfights with uncanny precision, solidifying his place as a larger-than-life hero.
Despite its brevity, When to Fire develops its characters with remarkable depth. Matt’s powers serve not only as a narrative device for thrilling action but also as a lens to explore both his and Euna’s motivations, vulnerabilities, and shared history. Euna’s ultimate fate is revealed early, yet this knowledge heightens, rather than diminishes, the emotional stakes and tension as the story unfolds. Standley’s novella excels as a fusion of cowboy adventure and speculative fiction, anchored by an intriguing central mystery. The hints at a broader mythology suggest a world ripe for further exploration, leaving readers eager for a sequel that could delve deeper into its lore. If there’s a flaw, it’s that When to Fire ends too soon. Its rapid pace keeps the story moving but leaves little time to fully savor the rich world Standley has created. Just as the momentum reaches its peak, the novella concludes, leaving readers yearning for more.
In When to Fire, Ryan Standley delivers a thrilling and imaginative ride, seamlessly blending the grit of the Wild West with the wonder of science fiction. It’s a story that sticks with you, not just for what it is but for the tantalizing promise of what it could become.
Pages: 126 | ASIN : B0DX8CBT8N
LITERARY TITAN 