Book Reviews
AZIMUTHAL
US Review of Books
By: Mark Heisey
Earth has been in trouble for a long time. After undergoing a cataclysmic event, all seismic activity has stopped. Geno and his father, Krev, live on an orbiting station where they monitor Earth. Geno is unsure what his father does, as he remains secretive about his work. All that changes one morning when Geno’s father tells him about new seismic activity and informs him that the answer is on Jupiter station and Geno must head there immediately.
As Geno tries to leave, he realizes someone has been sabotaging the elixir used in interplanetary transport. With the elixir causing Geno serious illness, he races for an antidote. Afterward, Geno attempts to save his father but reaches him too late. His father gives him some microchips before he dies. Now Geno must rush to Jupiter station and try to save humankind. Along the way, he’ll be contacted by another species that offers assistance but is not altogether friendly.
Lopez’s short, science fiction adventure moves at a lightning pace. The protagonist is thrust into a situation he is ill-prepared to handle, but countless lives are now dependent on him. Using seismic and geological activity as the groundwork for his story is an interesting take by Lopez. Although intriguing, the overall strength of the narrative would have been enhanced through some additional editing. The writing and pace highlight Lopez’s energy and creativity toward his subject. Readers who enjoy the genre but find a lot of it slow due to explaining the science behind the worldbuilding may find Lopez’s fast-paced story a nice escape.
WHILE HALF THE WORLD IS SLEEPING
Pacific Book Review
By: Reia Midas
In theory, science fiction is a fictionalized vision of a futuristic world and the world beyond our solar system. However, science fiction is a conscious calculation, done on the world’s current state to design to imagine with plausibility or possibility on what the future could hold. The result shows that despite all science’s futuristic creations and conveniences, the new world is similar to the world now. Author Gabriel Anthony Lopez’s While Half the World is Sleeping is a picturesque depiction of the future set with credible links to the present.
The story, set in 2041, is now in a dystopian world where the political, social, and economic state has completely changed. Humans now inhabit both the Moon and Mars. Earth has somehow gained control over the two cosmic bodies. Styex, a corporation, controls all three cosmic bodies: Earth, Moon, and Mars. A war has now broken out globally between Styex and their rival company, Rubion Corporation, who are attempting to take over control from Styex. Paris Pharell, the CEO of Styex, along with his friends Samantha and Cory, dives headfirst into the crisis to stop the devastation the war was wrecking on Earth as much as on the other two cosmic bodies. But the three don’t know a bigger enemy awaits on the horizon of their existing crisis.
Gabriel Anthony Lopez consciously built a futuristic world which shows a fictional state of a world controlled by heavy machines and advanced technology. Phones are replaced by a more advanced device called an ‘abstynth’, and a strange new screen replaces TVs. He carefully constructed each segment, such as the Mec Warriors, the futuristic suit that Paris wore, and the new modes of transport to build a perfect science fiction setting.
Other than the clever, creative takes on scientific advancement, Lopez has also shown the extremes of humankind. How greed and ambition can ruin a man, destroy their close bonds with people, and lead to their demise, which was carefully observed through the characters of Nicholas and Jennifer. Readers get brief glimpses into the state of desolation the world goes into during war and how it affects human lives – and everything around them. A significant moment in the book is the depiction of the desensitization of human beings during times of crisis. The synergy of science fiction being not simply a collection of cool gizmos, but also a mirror of society, is brought to full fruition through the work of Gabriel Anthony Lopez.
While Half the World is Sleeping is a novel which takes the reader into a world of advanced technology, huge aircraft, and even the Moon! But at the same time, it grounds the reader with the depiction of existing societal issues. Readers looking for the next science fiction with a dystopian world and an added touch of adventure will want to pick up a copy of this scintillating novella.
WHILE HALF THE WORLD IS SLEEPING
US Review of Books
By: Sarah Poulette
Paris Pharrell is the successful playboy CEO of a giant corporation called Styex in the year 2041. He and his best friends and sometimes lovers Cory and Samantha enjoy elaborate meals and flirtatious conversation as they travel around the world until society collapses around them. Global war breaks out and even spreads to the new Mars colony.
The three friends realize that the conflict is in danger of destroying the entire Earth. After a brief time of being enlisted in the fighting, Paris begins to suspect rival corporation Rubion instigated this war. Paris, Cory, and Samantha work to uncover Rubion’s plans, and their search requires travel to the moon and Mars. They discover that Rubion’s machinations run deep and involve their own lives, as well as the fate of the entire world.
This slim novella ambitiously packs a lot of action and plot points into a small amount of space. The author’s worldbuilding is fascinating, as are the few hints at what kinds of technology this future holds, such as the mech suits in which Paris and other soldiers wage war. The fast-paced story does not take the time to explain or dwell on these features, however, and the characters’ dialogue often becomes expository instead of conversational to explain what has passed in the more rushed scenes. The writing is almost staccato in style, which gives the narrative a cut-and-dry Hemingway tone in some parts. This story presents an interesting world but with enough mystery about it to leave more questions than answers by the end. The plot’s many twists and turns keep readers guessing.
When the Earth Was Quiet
Pacific Book Review
By: Reyan Boris Mishra
When the Earth Was Quiet is an enthralling sci-fi tale capable of making your mind race. The book hooks your attention in the initial pages and keeps it trapped until the last one. Even though the climax is brilliant, you might experience a little dissatisfaction as you would probably wish the story could go on a little longer. It’s not one of the typical sci-fi books where the focus rests on conquest and achievements. Instead, the story in question makes the readers delve into the adventurous journey and the multitude of effects it has on adventurers.
With his convincing writing, author Gabriel Anthony Lopez makes you a part of the journey as you feel the highs and lows of the expedition experienced by the characters. Three ambitious scientists, Max Rodriguez, Lydia Miller, and Ken Gresser, are on a scientific voyage in search of an answer. Each one has a unique way of going about their business. What is it that they are after? Will they ever get their hands on the big answer? And if they do, what this discovery is going to entail? Spoiler: The answer to all your questions is not as straightforward as you’d probably imagine.
The vivid descriptions of the surroundings and emotions add to the magnificent aura created by the book. Each character has been wonderfully written to offer depth and a glimpse into the zig-zag nature of human emotions. The sci-fi elements that you are going to find here are both unique and sense-making. What’s more, the events are well-paced. The author has kept it right to the point that makes the read all the more exciting.
If you are big on sci-fi adventures, When the Earth Was Quiet deserves a spot on your bookshelf. The story has it all from an intriguing plot, and well-developed characters to some awesome sci-fi elements. As for people who haven’t yet got the aroma of a sci-fi dish, this book right here might be a good one to test whether the genre is up your alley. First off, it’s shorter than most novels in the genre, and secondly, it’s written in a manner so everybody can understand it – even a person with little understanding of scientific biz. However, a science buff would enjoy it more in all probability.
If you are concluding a book or looking for your next one, we recommend you make When the Earth Was Quiet your next read. It’s equipped to both thrill you while it makes you think.
When the Earth Was Quiet
Hollywood Book Reviews
By: Roxanne Greenman
When the Earth Was Quiet by author Gabriel Anthony Lopez, stands out with its unique blend of scientific exploration and personal drama, all set against the intriguing backdrop of the year 2240. The narrative is driven by Lydia Miller, Max Rodriguez, and Ken, who embark on a groundbreaking archaeological and scientific project. Their journey is a tapestry of discoveries and encounters with ancient beings, delving into themes of humanity’s past, the quest for knowledge, and the profound connections between the characters.
In the initial chapters, Lydia, an archaeologist in Montana, and Max, her colleague, uncover groundbreaking discoveries about prehistoric life. At the same time, Ken, who is leading the project from Mars, detects a potential breakthrough signal from space. This leads to the discovery of a spaceship, raising questions about ancient intelligent beings. As the story progresses, Max and Lydia travel to Seattle, reunite, and speculate about the intelligence of the beings on the spaceship. The climax involves encounters with Zonit, a humanoid reptilian, who demands Earth’s technology and initiates a process that resurrects dinosaurs, culminating in global havoc and personal reflections on their journey and losses.
The novel weaves scientific discovery with personal reflection, adding emotional depth to the story. The characters’ strong connections to their work and each other are a poignant aspect of the narrative. The book’s credibility is boosted by its thorough research into scientific and archaeological details, enriching the narrative. The revelation of the spaceship and encounter with ancient beings crystallize exploring humanity’s role in the universe, adding depth and intrigue to the story.
This story moves between Earth and Mars, presenting vivid descriptions that breathe life into the surroundings. The tone ranges from suspenseful and thrilling during the discovery and confrontation scenes to reflective and poignant during the characters’ personal moments, keeping readers engaged on an emotional level. By vividly illustrating the prehistoric or futuristic elements, the author makes them look real, creating a deep impression of a visually and emotionally rich reading experience.
The story is fluid and engaging, with each chapter seamlessly connecting to the next. The narrative unfolds at a well-measured pace, ensuring moments of suspense and unveiling surprises that captivate the reader. It is written clearly and descriptively, bringing out the characters’ feelings and settings. The characters have distinct personalities and backgrounds that influence their actions. Lydia’s dedication to archaeology, Max’s struggle with his past, and Ken’s leadership on Mars are all portrayed with depth and authenticity. The emotional connections between the characters, particularly the burgeoning romance between Lydia and Ken, add an extra layer of complexity to the narrative. Realistic conversations further enhance character development, providing insight into their motivations and relationships. Through the strategic use of multiple character perspectives, the story offers a comprehensive insight into the evolving plot and the characters’ underlying motivations.
When the Earth Was Quiet masterfully combines science fiction elements with personal drama, creating a suspenseful journey from beginning to end. With strong characters, vivid settings, and deep themes, it provides an enthralling experience that resonates deeply.
The Last Son of Charybdis
Pacific Book Review
By: Aaron Washington
If you are looking for a short and attention-grabbing book to read, then look no farther as The Last Son of Charybdis is for you. This book dives right into being captivating from the start. The writing is exemplary and the arrangement of the paragraphs distinct. That, however, is not the only thing which makes The Last Son of Charybdis worth your time. It is a thrilling and intriguing story.
How does one start to describe the narration? Nice and simple. Author Gabriel Anthony Lopez wrote this book for readers who enjoy modest books. His diction is amazing and the way of describing characters even better. Gabriel Anthony Lopez is not only a good storyteller but also a great narrator.
Reading this book makes one feel as if they can sit in through hours of the author’s storytelling. His imaginative mind, together with the creativity when narrating, are some of the most striking elements in this book. Imagine living in a caste-based system planet. If this sounds interesting, it becomes even more fascinating when you get to dig in on the first page.
In this place lives a family. You can say a decent family, except each member of the family has their own unique traits. Some are portrayed as weak, while others show their strength and perfection in their existence. Charybdis is a nice place to live. Not your average planet, things appear to be unorthodox most of the time, but people get to adapt. Gabriel Lopez takes you to this fantasy world, where you get to live with people who have a wide range of skills.
Byeolsu is one character readers will appreciate in the book. He is one of those characters that I enjoyed following even when he had a slip-up. Byeolsu was a remarkable child, despite coming from a somewhat complicated family. The love was there but would this boy be able to handle what is ahead of him?
Gabriel Lopez is an engaging author as his characters are fun to follow and readers get the impression of virtually knowing them in a unique way. Byeolsu is not the only electrifying character in the book, as I enjoyed reading about others including Sirius, Enceladus and Cephei; their character development made the story fascinating too. The author’s name selection and traits of the main characters matched the setting in the book. One also gets to learn new vocabulary and interesting phrases in the book. The Last Son of Charybdis is a stimulating book for lovers of fiction.
The author virtually transports readers to another planet where you forget about your current setting. The beauty about Gabriel Anthony Lopez’s writing is that he considers readers of all skill levels. Teens, young adult readers, adults, as well as avid readers can all enjoy the story. The storyline is simple while still being exciting, and once again the author is exceptional in his narration. Some of the major themes in the book include jealousy, love, power, family, friendships and loyalty. One can learn a lot just by following the characters such as their traits teach how to be patient, dealing with anger, and loving unconditionally.
The Last Son of Charybdis
US Review of Books
By: Michael Radon
Byeolsu is a carefree youth on the planet of Charybdis I, born into the upper class of the Imperial Council and with no worries regarding the mining caste or the rising insurrection. He is focused only on playing games of bainet, while those close to him are torn between preparing him for his destiny and protecting him from a dangerous and deadly fate.
When the insurrection begins, a shadowy figure named Enceladus starts to stalk and hunt Byeolsu and his companions. Amidst the chaos, Byeolsu is forced to flee to the abandoned planet of Charybdis II, where he learns of his true calling as the future leader of the Charybdisians. Needing to save his family and protect himself, Byeolsu must make a decision that will determine the safety of his people as well as his own life.
This science fiction tale is packed with immersive detail, freeing the reader to use their imaginations to ascertain the meaning of many specially created terms peppered throughout the story for flavor. There is a constant push toward action from fairly early in the story, and readers will have to deduce many of the details of the story and the upcoming twists of the plot as they advance through each chapter. The elements of prophecy and ancient vanished cultures offer an opportunity for rich lore that can potentially be explored in future installments of this story, as there is plenty of room for continuation. Readers who like their science fiction shown to them rather than explained in grand exposition will dive right into the unfamiliar desert world of Charybdis I and place themselves in the middle of the action, eager to see what Byeolsu will get involved with next.
SCIONS OF AN ENIGMA
US Review of Books
By: Sarah Poulette
In this short science-fiction novella, a planet’s leader must follow prophecies to save his own home as well as a fabled world called Earth. Eight years after escaping insurrectionists on Charybdis I, Byeolsu rules over Charybdis II. The planet is populated by locals and Charyibdisian refugees, all of whom respect their ruler. Byeolsu thinks he loves Tati, a Charybdis II native, but their relationship is complicated.
One day in the wilderness, Byeolsu finds Smyr, a lost young man from Charybdis I. Smyr claims that he too came on an evacuation ship but cannot account for the last eight years since he supposedly arrived on Charybdis II. Byeolsu and Tati vacillate between trust and suspicion when it comes to Smyr’s identity, and this mistrust starts to affect their feelings for each other. All three must head to Charybdis I to uncover the plot behind Smyr’s sudden appearance. In the process, they discover that the fate of the known universe rests in Byeolsu’s hands.
The political intrigue between worlds and races in this story brings to mind that of the Star Wars universe. Indeed, the story’s villain closely resembles Emperor Palpatine in his all-encompassing desire for power. However, the attention to the characters’ inner workings more closely resembles the short fiction of Ray Bradbury. The narrative never forgets that its heroes are people first and political entities second. For example, Tati’s wavering loyalties and her unexpected technological skills help make her more than a mere love interest. The mysterious circumstances around Smyr’s arrival shift the plot rather abruptly to a more action-based story, but this sudden change works with the fast pace of the text. The action-driven storyline leaves little space for an explanation of the prophecies that compel the characters. However, Lopez’s worldbuilding is overall fascinating and thorough.