M. Pax's Blog, page 18
November 27, 2023
November 24, 2023
Fantasy Worth Reading: Something from the Nightside #BookReview #fantasybooks
Something from the Nightside by Simon R. Green is another novel I devoured in a mere few hours. It’s hard-boiled detective meets Neverwhere, and it’s a wonderful treat. Don’t deprive yourself of this gem.
The voice of the main character, John Taylor, is strong and bleeds atmosphere into every paragraph. The Nightside’s dark alleys, neon-lit streets, and eerie locales are described with such detail that they almost become characters themselves. The author’s atmospheric prose adds depth and richness to the narrative, making the Nightside a place readers can visualize and get lost in.
Nightside is a realm within London filled with darkness and mystery. Mostly darkness. It’s always 3:00 a.m. there and is populated by the bizarre and disturbing. John Taylor swore five years ago he’d never go back, but a rich lady walks into his office when he’s desperate for money. She needs him to find her runaway teenage daughter. He has a magical gift, a third eye, which makes him an expert at finding things in the Nightside. Only, something is blocking his sight. That’s never happened before.
The plot twists into creative and imaginative jaunts that made it unpredictable in the best of ways. The final twists were delicious. I will certainly be acquiring more books in this series. Highly recommended and it gets beyond five stars from me.
Here’s the blurb:
Taylor is the name, John Taylor. My card says I’m a detective, but what I really am is an expert on finding lost things. It’s part of the gift I was born with as a child of the Nightside.
I left there a long time ago, with my skin and sanity barely intact. Now I make my living in the sunlit streets of London. But business has been slow lately, so when Joanna Barrett showed up at my door, reeking of wealth, asking me to find her runaway teenage daughter, I didn’t say no.
Then I found out exactly where the girl had gone.
The Nightside. That square mile of Hell in the middle of the city, where it’s always three A.M. Where you can walk beside myths and drink with monsters. Where nothing is what it seems and everything is possible.
I swore I’d never return. But there’s a kid in danger and a woman depending on me. So I have no choice—I’m going home.
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November 20, 2023
Black Friday and Cyber Monday! Backworlds and Rifters series Steeply Discounted! #scifi #fantasy #BlackFriday #CyberMonday
Two Fantastic Series at a Spectacular Price
As the holiday season approaches, what better way to treat yourself or a fellow book lover than with fantastic deals on captivating series? This Black Friday and Cyber Monday, I’m offering a limited-time offer of 45% off the complete Backworlds and Rifters series.
Are you ready for an exhilarating journey through the Backworlds? The complete Backworlds series, consisting of all eight books, is now available at a 45% discount. Join the charismatic character, Craze, as he’s banished from his home planet, thrusting him into a whirlwind adventure that will transform him into an unlikely hero.
Surprising Plot Twists: The Backworlds series is known for its unexpected plot twists that will keep you on the edge of your seat, page after page.Everyday Heroes: One of the series’ defining features is its focus on ordinary people rising to the occasion and facing extraordinary challenges. These relatable characters make the series a must-read for fans of science fiction and epic adventures.Upcoming Release: Exciting news for fans – a new book is set to join the Backworlds series in 2024! Don’t miss the chance to catch up on Craze’s adventures before the next installment.Explore the Backworlds Series Here
The Rifters Series: A Fusion of Sci-Fi, Fantasy, and Steampunk
If you’re looking for something truly unique and captivating, The Rifters series awaits you. This weird western series combines science fiction, fantasy, and steampunk in a quaint Oregonian town. As part of the Black Friday and Cyber Monday sale, you can enjoy all four books in the series at a 45% discount.
Awe-Inspiring Landscapes: The Rifters series takes you on a breathtaking journey through the awe-inspiring landscapes of Oregon. It’s a place where the ordinary meets the extraordinary in the most unexpected ways.Thrilling Mysteries: Join Daelin Long as she embarks on a journey to the Wild West, hoping to start anew. Instead, she finds her sister missing and a phantom stealing heads. Prepare for a series of unexpected twists and turns that have garnered The Rifters a devoted following.Don’t Miss the Rifters Series – 45% Off
This Black Friday and Cyber Monday, don’t miss your chance to explore the imaginative worlds of the Backworlds and Rifters series by M. Pax. With a generous 45% discount, you can dive into the adventures of Craze and Daelin Long, two remarkable characters navigating their respective worlds filled with surprises and challenges. Whether you’re a fan of science fiction, epic adventures, or unique blends of genres, these series have something for everyone. Treat yourself or a fellow book lover to these captivating journeys, and discover why these series have gained a devoted following. Happy reading!
The post Black Friday and Cyber Monday! Backworlds and Rifters series Steeply Discounted! #scifi #fantasy #BlackFriday #CyberMonday appeared first on M. Pax.
November 15, 2023
#Sci-Fi Worth Reading: All Fools Day #BookReview #BookTwitter
All Fool’s Day by Edmund Cooper was a great find. This worthwhile novel was recommended to me by another sci-fi lover on Instagram. I review a lot more books on Instagram and more than sci-fi and fantasy. If you want, follow me on Instagram! We’ll chat about books.
Anyway, Cooper is an author from the 1960s I never heard of. I’m glad that error has been remedied. The Edinburgh Evening News had this to say about All Fool’s Day: The wackiest book of the year — this tragic, ingenious and entertaining novel.
Wacky? That’s like a calling card to me. This was good writing and a very original story. The main character is a reluctant hero (one of my favorite tropes) and not very likeable. Yet, Cooper kept me engaged and reading.
The premise is the sun starts having sun spots that put out a strange and new kind of radiation that makes people want to kill themselves. The only people immune are those with different minds – the geniuses, the crazy, the neurodivergent, the psychopaths, etc… Yeah, it’s a nutty plot idea, but it makes sense in the story and Cooper writes it well.
The writing is old-fashioned to what’s currently in vogue (third person omniscient), but the story is compelling and keeps moving forward. With packs of murdersome rats, dogs, cats, and pigs, it was a compelling read about how the transnormals face the end of civilization.
Here’s the blurb:
Summer 1971. A marvellous spell of weather, idyllic in its warmth. But new sun-spots had appeared; and with their appearance came a significant increase in the suicide rate. The wonderful summer continued for a decade: simultaneously Radiant Suicide reached endemic proportions, the only people to escape its effects being the supposed transnormals, the obsessionals, the eccentrics and the psychopaths. These were to be the only remnants of the ancient ‘homo sapiens’ . . .
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November 10, 2023
Lepsi: A Backworlder’s Quest for Redemption #scifi #sciencefiction
In the vast and diverse universe of the Backworlds series, one character stands out for his tumultuous journey from a life of privilege and suffering to redemption and the pursuit of a noble cause. Lepsi has faced unimaginable challenges and personal demons. His story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the quest for redemption in the face of profound mistakes.
Lepsi’s early life was far from idyllic. Born into a noble family on the unforgiving world of Doka, he was subjected to the cruelty of his father and brother. Their unkindness and abuse drove Lepsi to seek solace and escape in the form of a friendship that would change the course of his life forever.
The Bond of Friendship: Talos and Lepsi’s Great EscapeLepsi found a ray of hope in the form of Talos, a friend who would become his closest ally. Together, they devised a plan to escape Doka. Fueled by determination and the desire for a better life, they embarked on a journey that would take them to the edge of the Backworlds.
A New Beginning: Pardeep StationOn their journey through the planets on the Edge of the Backworlds, Lepsi and Talos encountered Craze, who played a pivotal role in their lives. With Craze’s help, they acquired a spaceship, The Sequi, and together, they created a home on the remote moon, Pardeep Station. For a time, it seemed that Lepsi’s troubles were finally behind him.
Tragedy Strikes: Lepsi’s Enslavement by the QuassersHowever, fate had other plans for Lepsi. He fell victim to an evil and enigmatic alien race known as the Quassers. These sentient, living ships kidnapped and enslaved him, plunging Lepsi into a harrowing ordeal that would scar him deeply.
A Desperate Quest for Redemption: Lepsi’s Ill-Fated PlanThe war with the Quassers pushed Lepsi to the brink. In a desperate bid to save Talos and end the conflict, he sought to lead the Quassers through a connection forged during his time as a slave. Unfortunately, this attempt went terribly awry, leading to dire consequences. The Quassers killed billions while Lepsi led them.
Lepsi’s RedemptionHaunted by the consequences of his actions, Lepsi embarks on a journey to find redemption. He dedicated himself to rescuing other aliens in captivity and helping them return to their homelands, seeking to make amends for the devastation he unwittingly caused and many blame him for, even some he calls friend.
A Glimpse into Lepsi’s Physical Appearance and CharacterLepsi’s seven-foot-tall frame, curly red hair, and piercing blue eyes make him a distinctive figure in the Backworlds universe. His loyalty and unwavering commitment to doing the right thing define his character, despite the deep regrets that weigh on his conscience.
Follow Lepsi’s journey through the Backworlds with a free book!. The Backworlds is free at all ebook retailers.
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November 6, 2023
November eBook Bonanza: Exciting Deals to Cozy up your EReader #scifi #sciencefiction #fantasy #ebooks
Get Your Read On!
As the days grow shorter and the temperature drops, there’s no better way to cozy up than with a captivating eBook. Fortunately, November is shaping up to be a treasure trove for book lovers, with a slew of fantastic eBook deals waiting to be discovered.
The Barnes & Noble Book Fair
The Barnes & Noble Book Fair is a delightful event for book enthusiasts. Whether you’re a fan of romance, paranormal, or sci-fi & fantasy, there’s an array of eBooks at discounted prices. This is an excellent opportunity to stock up on your favorite titles, explore new authors, and make the most of your November reading list.
Kobo Book Fair
For Kobo readers, the Kobo Book Fair is a must-visit destination in November. Dive into a world of eBooks across various genres, from horror to science fiction and fantasy. You’ll discover exceptional deals whether you’re seeking a heartwarming story or a spine-chilling adventure, this eBook promotion has you covered.
iBooks Book Fair
Apple users, rejoice! The iBook Book Fair is your passport to a world of literary wonders. You’ll find numerous discounted titles here. It’s an excellent opportunity to expand your digital library, with books ranging from bestsellers to hidden gems.
Fabulous Fantasy and Sizzling Sci-Fi
Fantasy and science fiction enthusiasts are in for a treat this November with the Fabulous Fantasy and Sizzling Sci-Fi collection. This eBook promotion offers a fantastic array of otherworldly adventures, epic quests, and mind-bending science fiction stories.
The post November eBook Bonanza: Exciting Deals to Cozy up your EReader #scifi #sciencefiction #fantasy #ebooks appeared first on M. Pax.
November 3, 2023
The Psychic Astronomy Shoppe Exclusive! #Giveaway #freeebooks #fantasy #fantasybooks
On November 7th, I’ll be giving away The Psychic Astronomy Shoppe. The only way to get this fantasy steampunk adventure is through the M. Pax Dimension.
This novella was originally written for an anthology that cancelled publication. I plan on writing more in this series, but not yet. So, I’m giving it away to the fabulous people who subscribe to my newsletter. It’s fantasy steampunk with time travel and science fiction elements. Set in Buffalo, New York, the story takes place on April Fools Day. Lainee, the main character, is pretty sure she’s being pranked at first.
The Psychic Astronomy ShoppeThis adventure begins with Lainee Corsault spying on her neighbor, who is vacuuming her garden at night. Well, whatever for? The next morning, giant peas are growing i Lainee’s backyard. And they have teeth! Then things get stranger when a woman from 1900 is standing on the porch. What is going on?
The poster pack includes: Lainee, Lainee’s house, Glenora Dixon, a steamcar driving in present-day downtown Buffalo, New York, Guillermo, the sorceress vacuuming the garden, interior of the Psychic Astronomy Shoppe, Gram, a clockwork cardinal, and Cynera.
Get Your FREE Book!To get this book, only available on November 7, 2023, sign up for the MPax Dimension. If you’re not already part of my Dimension, sign up now!
You’ll also get a FREE starter library, and I’m giving away a brand new Backworlds adventure in December!
The post The Psychic Astronomy Shoppe Exclusive! #Giveaway #freeebooks #fantasy #fantasybooks appeared first on M. Pax.
October 31, 2023
Rifters #AudioBook Sale! Half Off! #fantasy #steampunk
Steampunk fantasy with a bit of weird western and sci-fi! This popular fantasy steampunk series is in audiobook, and the audiobooks are on sale!
Digitally Narrated
A monstrous secret hides in the backwoods of a remote western town—a portal connecting our world to forty-two other universes. The visitors—most would call them terrifying—often have devastating effects. Their destruction hasn’t been intentional… until lately. The usual band of protectors, The Rifters, defend us with daring and weapons built from coils, gears, and crystals, which is no longer enough. Earth’s survival depends on an outlaw from 1888 and a librarian with a knack for ghosts.
The Rifters Audio Bundle includes: The Rifters, The Initiate, The Reader, and The Tracer.
$19.99 9.99
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October 27, 2023
Discovering the Charm of Antelope, Oregon #NaturePhotography Photography #ghosttown
It’s Spooktober! Let’s visit a ghost town. How about Antelope?
Amidst the rolling hills and rugged landscapes of central Oregon, Antelope has a big story to tell. This quaint town is a hidden gem, offering a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and a sense of timelessness.
A Glimpse into Antelope’s HistoryIn the mid-19th century, Antelope began as a station along the wagon road connecting The Dalles on the Columbia River with gold mines near Canyon City. After about 1870, the wagon road became known as The Dalles Military Road. When the highway was moved, Antelope became a quiet town of ranchers.
Is most notorious chapter came in the early 1980s when it briefly became the home of the Rajneeshpuram commune led by Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh. A circle of leading members of the Rajneeshpuram Oregon commune were arrested for crimes including an attempted assassination plot to murder U.S. Attorney Charles H. Turner as part of the United States’s first recorded bio-terror attack calculated to influence the outcome of a local election in their favour; the effort ultimately failed. Salmonella bacteria were deployed to infect salad products in local restaurants and shops, which poisoned several hundred people.
Antelope has many old building.
Antelope offers breathtaking vistas…
And creepy ones… I envisioned this school when writing the second book in the Rifters series.
Antelop was an awesome place to visit!
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October 23, 2023
#SciFi Worth Reading: Cake Eater by Allyson Dahlin #BookReview #BookTwitter
Set in the year 3070, this novel is a retelling of Marie Antoinette’s story. I instantly related to Marie trying to exert control over her life. Only seventeen, she flies off to Franc to marry the dauphin, Louis. They’ve never met, but she’s prepared to do her duty. Sheltered and naive, she’s not prepared for much else.
She gives up her name, her home, her family, her dog, and even her clothes to become a wife and Marie. Nothing remains of her and her past, so she does her best to find herself, a way to fit in, and a way to still be Maria. I found this book charming and enchanting. Marie immersed me into her life at Versailles and her struggle to be less lonely. This book had lots of feels, a young woman trying to figure out who she is, a struggling romance, and a sinister underlying plot. And, it made me cry. Not many books affect me that way.
If I had read the blurb, I never would have chosen this book myself. It was recommended and I’m thankful to that person for recommending it. I had a hard time putting this book down and am sorry Allyson doesn’t have any more books out. I really loved this book.
Here’s the blurb:
The year is 3070, and Marie Antoinette has just arrived at the glittering, thrilling palace of Versailles to marry the shy, soft-spoken Louis-Auguste.
But beneath the luxurious world lies a sinister underbelly and an uncompromising elite who want to keep Marie and Louis pawns in a deadly game.
Will history repeat itself? Or will these doomed lovers outwit their enemies and escape their grisly fate?
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