M. Pax's Blog, page 5

Disaster Worth Watching: Geostorm Movie Review

 

Geostorm Movie Review: A Storm of Potential, But Not Enough Disaster

Geostorm—the title alone makes you think of epic, world-ending catastrophes, and honestly, the concept had me hooked from the start. A high-stakes, climate-controlling satellite system goes haywire, triggering devastating weather events that threaten the planet. Throw in some space action, global disaster, and Gerard Butler, and you’ve got the makings of a thrilling, edge-of-your-seat blockbuster.

But while the movie certainly has its moments, it feels like it never quite lives up to its potential.

A Great Concept… Just Not Enough of It

Let’s start with the good stuff. The premise is fantastic. A rogue weather-controlling satellite? Count me in. The space scenes are solid, with the satellite operations and space-based tech feeling both futuristic and realistic (at least for a sci-fi movie). The visuals are strong, especially when it comes to showing the large-scale destruction of various cities around the world. The concept of using technology to control the weather is an exciting one, and I was really excited to see how they’d play it out.

Unfortunately, that excitement wasn’t sustained throughout the film. The disaster elements, which should have been the movie’s heart and soul, are surprisingly few and far between. Sure, there are a few dramatic weather events—tornadoes, tsunamis, ice storms—but they don’t quite pack the punch you’d expect from a movie called Geostorm. They almost feel like a backdrop to fixing the satellite than fully immersing us in a global crisis.

A Lack of Emotional Connection

Another issue I had was the lack of emotional connection to the characters. Gerard Butler’s character, Jake Lawson, has some potential as the lead, but the connections between him and other characters feel shallow. There’s a strained relationship with his brother (played by Jim Sturgess), but it never feels like it’s building to something more substantial. They don’t spend enough time building up these emotional arcs, so when things start falling apart, the stakes feel… a little flat.

For a disaster movie, the emotional payoff should be tied to both the catastrophe and the relationships that drive the story. Geostorm tries to do this, but because the character development is so minimal, the emotional moments don’t land as hard as they should.

Missing the Mark on the Disaster

Now, I get it—this movie isn’t meant to be a heart-wrenching drama. It’s supposed to be a fun, ridiculous, non-stop thrill ride. But if you’re going to make a disaster movie, you need to go all in. The movie feels restrained. The action isn’t as over-the-top as you’d expect, and the “biggest disaster of all time” never feels as huge as the premise suggests. Instead of a non-stop barrage of escalating disasters, we get a few scattered moments of action that feel more like set pieces than integral parts of the plot.

Final Thoughts

Geostorm isn’t a bad movie by any means. It’s a decent watch if you’re in the mood for a fun, if somewhat flawed, disaster film. The concept is great, the space scenes are enjoyable, and the visual effects are strong. But in the end, it falls short of its potential. With more emotional depth and a more consistent barrage of chaotic, world-shaking disasters, it could have been the epic ride it promised to be. Instead, it feels like it missed a few opportunities to really let loose. So, I say, one beer is enough to have fun with Geostorm.

Here’s the trailer:

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Get Ready for the Squad 51 Kickstarter—Prelaunch Sign-Up Now Open!

The countdown has officially begun! The Squad 51 series is about to get even bigger, and you won’t want to miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be part of the launch party. If you’ve been eagerly awaiting new adventures in space (or just love exclusive, signed books packed with special extras), now’s the time to sign up for the prelaunch on Kickstarter!

Mark your calendars for August 5th—I’m bringing you a whole new level of immersive storytelling, with some incredible perks to make your reading experience truly unforgettable.

Why Should You Sign Up for the Squad 51 Prelaunch?

Exclusive Signed Editions with Extras
Each ebook in the Squad 51 series will come signed and loaded with extras to immerse you in the universe like never before. I’m talking character cards, behind-the-scenes looks at how the stories came to life, playlists, and more! These editions are a celebration of the world you love—and they’re only available through the Kickstarter campaign!

New Releases Months Before They Hit Stores!
Get your hands on Space Trash and Space Weed before anyone else! These two new books will be released months ahead of their official store releases. Plus, they’ll be signed and packed with bonus material to make them true special editions. How cool is that?

Special Kickstarter-Only Book: Space Hitched
The Squad 51 universe is expanding with Space Hitched, a fourth book in the series that will only be available through the Kickstarter campaign. This is your chance to own a one-of-a-kind addition to the series that no one else can get anywhere else!

Behind-the-Scenes Access
Want to know what goes into creating a story? Backers will get an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at how the Squad 51 books come to life. From early drafts to character development, you’ll see the process from start to finish. Plus, special playlists, art, and more!

Weekly Party Favors
Let’s make this a real celebration! Backers will get weekly party favors—fun and exclusive little treats to get you even more excited for the release. Think sneak peeks, surprises, and maybe even some fun challenges to get you involved in the action.

Print Copies in Paperback and Hardcover
If you love having a physical book in your hands, you’re in luck. We’re offering full-color print copies in both paperback and hardcover—so you can have a beautiful addition to your bookshelf.

Your Name in the Dedications!
This is your chance to get your name in the dedications of the books! Every backer will be honored as a part of the Squad 51 universe and included in the special thank-you pages.

Don’t Miss Out on This Amazing Opportunity

The Squad 51 Kickstarter campaign is going to be out of this world—and you’ll want to be a part of it. Sign up now for the prelaunch to get early access, updates, and exclusive perks that will make your experience as a backer truly unforgettable.

This is your chance to support an incredible series, get your hands on exclusive signed editions, and join the fun as we celebrate the launch of Space Trash, Space Weed, and Space Hitched.

Ready to join the party? Sign up for the prelaunch on Kickstarter now and get ready to blast off with us this August 5th!

SQUAD 51 LAUNCH

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#Dystopian Worth Reading: Biography of X #BookReview

 

A Complex, Thought-Provoking Triumph: Biography of X by Catherine Lacey

For book club, we read and discussed Biography of X by Catherine Lacey. I’ll admit, I was the only one in the group who really enjoyed it—but I honestly loved it.

This book is an ambitious and unique piece of literature, and I was impressed by how Lacey manages to weave together a complicated, layered narrative into something that feels both cohesive and challenging.

A Fictionalized Biography in a Dystopian World

At first glance, Biography of X appears to be a straightforward biography, but it’s much more than that. It’s a fictionalized account of a woman’s life, interwoven with dystopian elements and a deep exploration of identity, perception, and truth. The structure of the book itself is fascinating—written as if it’s an academic biography of a woman named X, the narrative blurs the lines between fact and fiction, between reality and distortion.

What really struck me is the way Lacey uses our real world to shape the fictionalized one in the novel. Names, events, and historical moments from our world are woven into the fabric of the story, creating a sense of familiarity while keeping the reader on their toes. This manipulation of fact makes the novel feel both disorienting and immersive, twisting the reader’s perception in a way that feels both challenging and rewarding.

Thematic Depth and Literary References

One of the larger themes that stood out to me is the exploration of identity and how we understand others, particularly in relationships. The narrator, a widow, spends the novel trying to piece together the mystery of her wife’s past. But the more she uncovers, the more layers are added, and she realizes that understanding someone is never as simple as it seems. This reminded me of Steppenwolf by Hermann Hesse, one of my all-time favorite novels, which explores similar themes of self-discovery and the complexities of human nature. Biography of X is full of philosophical reflections, and there’s a lot to unpack in terms of identity, agency, and how much of what we know about others is shaped by perception rather than truth.

Not for the Faint of Heart, but Worth the Challenge

The novel certainly isn’t easy to read. The characters are complicated and, honestly, not very likable. There’s no action to propel the plot forward, and no clear character arc to follow. It’s a book about ideas, not about plot progression. The narrator’s investigation into her wife’s past feels more like an intellectual exercise than a traditional story, but that’s part of what makes it so intriguing.

It’s the kind of book that challenges you to think deeply, and to be okay with not having all the answers by the end. In fact, the lack of resolution is part of what makes it so thought-provoking. There’s no neat conclusion, only more questions and layers waiting to be explored.

A Novel as Art

I would categorize Biography of X in the “novel as art” category. It’s unconventional, a little unsettling, and definitely requires patience from the reader. But if you’re open to being challenged and think you can handle the lack of a tidy narrative, then I highly recommend it.

While the characters may not be likable and the pacing might not be for everyone, the sheer creativity and intellectual depth of the novel make it a work that stands out. I appreciate books that take risks, that push boundaries, and that challenge the reader to see the world in a new way. Catherine Lacey has certainly accomplished that here, and I think she deserves every bit of recognition she’s received for this novel.

Final Thoughts

Biography of X is not a typical read, but if you’re looking for a book that will make you think long after you’ve finished, this is a must-read. Prepare to be challenged, and expect to spend time mulling over the deeper themes and layers of meaning. It’s not a light read, but it’s one I’ll be thinking about for a long time.

 

 

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Lucy Before she was Lucy: It’s Not the Pirate’s Life for Me

A story from the Squad 51 Universe.

Belucen Chote stood at the helm of the Bloodless Chote’s pirate ship, her fingers gliding over the holo controls as she studied the glowing display on the gel glass panel. Her eyes flicked over the data streaming in—ship scans, vulnerability assessments, and escape routes—her mind calculating, predicting, anticipating. Her parents had pushed her and taught her, and demanded she prove her blood. Today. With this raid, Belucen would officially become a Chote or not.

“Look at that ship,” Mauker, her father, growled behind her, a mixture of impatience and cold amusement. Belucen was not to call them mother and father, but by their names, Mauker and Zawaid. “Vulnerable. You can’t miss it.”

Belucen’s gaze shifted to the small freighter drifting aimlessly in the dark expanse of the Outer Sol. It was an easy target, yes. But something didn’t sit right. “I don’t trust it,” she said, her voice steady but edged with doubt, sounding the fifteen years she was. “It’s too easy.”

Her father scoffed, a low rumble in his chest. He pulled out a knife tucked into his sleeve. “You’re paranoid, which is one of your many problems. You overthink everything. Buck up and show some guts. Prove to me my blood runs in your veins.” He ran the blade over her chin, waiting for the moment her eyes followed the blade’s every flicker. His wrist twitched, and he nicked her, laughing at the blood dripping off her chin onto her armor.

She had made a mistake by giving into fear, by letting her distrust of Mauker seep into her emotions and make her react. She could not rest or relax when around her parents. They could attack at any time. The constant intimidation wasn’t just for show. They said this was the way to toughen her up for the life she was born to.

Her mother, Zawaid, adjusted the straps on Belucen’s black armor, her movements deliberate and calm. Every pirate wore the same dark armor and a black scarf on their heads. In a smooth move, Zawaid knocked Belucen out of the way. “Take the skiff to hunt down your prey. A cruiser? Really, kid? Most of them are showy on the outside with nothing worthwhile on the inside. We’re raiding the freighter.” Zawaid gestured to the more obvious target on the gel glass panel. “If the skiff and you don’t come back with riches, you’re our next target. Understand, kid?”

Belucen’s pulse quickened. Her parents would cut her to shreds or worse, if she failed. If the situation presented itself, she might let herself fail, might chance their wrath. Her main reason for choosing the cruiser over the freighter was because she might find a chance for herself on that ship, a chance not to be a Chote, a reason to see if the love she had witnessed in movies and on news reports when allowed to access the comm link was true.

“Aye, Zawaid.” She glanced at her father. “Mauker.”

“I’ll let you take Mastiff with you,” Mauker said. Mastiff was offered as a small token of parental concern.

As large and burly as her father, Mastiff was the equivalent of a military squad in one man. A ragged scar ran across his face in a diagonal line. Applying a red makeup pencil to it several times a day, he made sure the scar stood out from the blocky, asymmetrical face, and bulbous nose. His eyes always threatened, and his expression held danger. Mastiff was definitely someone Belucen didn’t want to be alone with. She doubted he would listen to any orders she gave, but she knew her father’s suggestion wasn’t a suggestion. Lessons from as far back as she could remember had stressed the word ‘no’ was not allowed when answering her parents.

With quick strides, she left flight control and traveled down two levels to board the skiff attached to the raider. Mastiff’s steps banged like boulders behind her, not letting her forget for a moment how huge, how powerful, how deadly he was. The skiff split off from the raider without a hitch, and Belucen steered it toward the cruiser.

Mastiff stood beside her, twirling his knives on his fingertips. She knew he could send one through her throat faster than she could blink, so kept her loathing to herself. “You’re so stupid,” he said. “You should listen to Mauker. He’s the king of pirates out here for a reason.”

Struggling not to gulp or stutter, Belucan watched the floor until her somersaulting emotions fell back under her control. “This is my initiation into the Chotes, Mastiff. I don’t earn my place by doing what’s easy.”

“Alright, kid. You’re about to earn my respect.” Putting his knives away, he stood like a giant of death, watching her every move.

As the skiff settled into position, he moved to the hatch, ready for action. Belucen felt the weight of her parents’ expectations on her shoulders and her own hopes. For better or worse, her future would unfold on that cruiser. The skiff released its grappling lines—technology designed to snag and hold ships in place, a violent embrace that would allow them to board. The magnetic clamps clicked into place, the shrill sound of metal-on-metal filling the air. The hold was locked.

Belucen donned her helmet, preparing to become a Chote, a dark version of human, or maybe she would see another path. At the exit next to Mastiff, the air thickened, bordering on choking Belucen. The comm system in her helmet broke the tension, flickering relentlessly. Zawaid’s voice cut through Belucen’s spinning thoughts. “Get on with it and quit dawdling. You’re supposed to lead this raid, not stand around like a coward.”

The words sliced as they were meant to, but Belucen didn’t flinch. She was more ruffled by Mastiff beside her than her parents on the raider. If push came to shove, the skiff could outrace the raider. Her parents kept the comm open, their laughter roaring, mocking her decision. Mastiff looked to her waiting, his expression growing impatient.

She opened the hatch and cut through the side of the cruiser with a plasma saw, sparks flying, the fiery glints displaying more confidence than she felt. She signaled Mastiff to follow and entered the cruiser. The smell shifted. Instead of blood and stale, the cruiser’s air was laced with citrus and ozone. Her boots sank silently into the lush carpet covering the cruiser’s floor. Whoever owned this ship was loaded. She had chosen wisely.

Not waiting for further orders, Mastiff shouldered through a door on their right, breaking into a store room. He banged and boomed and thudded through the room. Not caring what he found, Belucen hurried ahead, searching for the crew. She wanted to warn them, tell them to hide. Mastiff would believe her if she said the ship was manned only by AI, taking the cruiser into dock at Vanth. She would figure out what to do about Mastiff later. She didn’t have to search long. An elegant woman sat in flight control with an ease, almost boredom. Dressed in rich tunics draping lavishly over her slim pants, the woman had her booted feet resting on a console.

“Took you long enough. I’m Min Ashida. You are?”

“Belucen Chote of the Bloodless Chotes, and I’m here to raid you.”

Min’s head fell back, her drape of black hair spilling in waves down past her shoulders. “Just you?”

“You have to hide. The man with me will kill you if he finds you.” She toyed with the gun strapped to her hip that shot razors

Min’s gaze darted to the still holstered weapon. “Why are you here and not over there?” She pointed out the window at the hapless freighter her parents approached. “And you’re alone.”

“I-I’m not. Mastiff is with me. He’s a killer.” Belucen glanced around the swanky flight control. There were no scrapes or scratches or dents. No blood stains. The controls gleamed like jewels, and the single chair looked comfortable enough to live on. Photos covered the walls. Photos of smiling happy people.

“My family,” Min said.

Belucen stepped closer to the images, peering into the grinning faces. She counted seventy-two before Min interrupted her.

Min held out a glimmering ring with a gem as large as Belucen’s fist. Belucen ignored the offering, tapping on the photos. “Not many of them look like you.”

“Where are you from? The Inner Sol?”

“I grew up on the raider.” She shrugged toward the raider outside in the distance.

“I see.” Min’s expression softened. “The definition of family in the Outer Sol is a broader one than in other places. People we love, whether related or not, are our family.” Taking in Belucen from boot to helmet, Min’s eyelids snapped. “You look young? How old are you?”

Belucen shrugged. “As best I can count from as far back as I remember, about fifteen.”

“Fifteen is young. You’re not yet set in your life’s direction.”

“I hope not. I hope on this cruiser, I might find a choice.”

In the far distance, where the raider and freighter met, weapons went off. The explosions raced out in spheres, reaching into the darkness, wrenching the voids with violence. Belucen watched for a moment, then returned her attention to Min.

“You appear to have found a nice direction. What do you do?”

“What do I do?” Min chuckled, amused by the question. “I work with the authorities.” She nodded at the battle outside. “I’m with the regiment on the freighter and the patrol ships moving in.” Her head cocked, and she raised a perfectly groomed eyebrow. “Did you think this is my ship? It was confiscated from a lower space baron. Do you know of them? They’re a better bred sort of pirate.”

“I only know the Bloodless Chotes and other gangs.” Her gaze settled on the photos again. “You made yourself at home quickly.”

“You noticed that, did you? I take my family everywhere, Belucen Chote of the Bloodless Chotes, who are about to be put into custody.” She flicked her holoscreen to public so Belucen could see her parents’ raider surrounded by patrol ships. “They’ll be put into prison for life. They deserve worse for all the lives they took.” Her lips pressed together, and bitterness flashed over her expression.

Thumps and bangs sounded in the corridor. Mastiff howled, moving this way.

“I don’t want you to die, Min. Hide before he gets here.”

“Why don’t you want me to die, young pirate?”

“This is my first raid. The one who will make me a Chote or not a Chote. I don’t want to be like them.” She gestured at the raider. “I want that.” She pointed at the pictures of Min’s family. Tears stung her eyes, and truth filled her heart. She wanted what Min had. Not the fancy cruiser, but over seventy people who loved her. Across the void, the raider exploded, taking out the freighter and several patrol ships. Belucen’s heart caught, and her breath hitched. “I’m sorry, Min. I’m sorry they killed more of your family. My parents would have set off their self destruct rather than go to prison.”

The heavy thudding, frantic banging, and howling that had rattled the hallway a moment ago cut off, replaced by a dull thwamp, the sound of something heavy hitting the floor. Mastiff swore. A whine and crunch followed, sharp and metallic, then a strange, hollow stillness. Belucen tensed, instinct overriding thought. Something had changed. She shifted closer to Min, unholstering her weapon, pointing it at the doorway, waiting for Mastiff to appear.

“How cute. You’re going to protect me? Don’t worry about him,” Min said. “My android just snagged him, and the patrol ships weren’t harmed.” Min showed the area scan with every patrol ship accounted for. “The patrol ships have the best defenses. I’m sorry about your family, though.”

“We-we weren’t much of a family.” Belucen’s shoulders sagged. She handed her weapon to Min and removed her armor. “I’ll turn myself into you.”

Min Ashida’s gaze softened. “Maybe I can give you what you want,” she said, standing up slowly. “This doesn’t have to be who you are. I can offer you a new start, a chance to leave the pirate life behind.”

“I want a chance to fill my walls with family photos. You can give me that chance?”

“I can, Lucy.” Min’s smile was small but reassuring. “For a new life, you need a new name.”

“Lucy is nice. It sounds more inviting than Belucen.” She glanced at the approaching patrol ships. “Will they accept my new name?”

“They’ll accept what I tell them, Lucy. Welcome to the first day of the rest of your life.”

Lucy swallowed hard, her heart pounding in her chest. She had found her hope, found her chance, and her chance was better than she expected. “Lucy,” she whispered, testing the name. It sounded like freedom.

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Sci-Fi Worth Watching: Upgrade (2018) Movie Review

 

Upgrade is a thrilling, high-tech ride that holds your attention from start to finish. Directed by Leigh Whannell, this sci-fi action film blends mystery, revenge, and futuristic technology in a way that feels fresh and engaging.

The story follows Grey Trace (Logan Marshall-Green), a man who’s left paralyzed after a brutal attack that also takes the life of his wife. In a desperate search for answers, Grey is implanted with an experimental AI called Stem that not only restores his ability to walk but also gives him superhuman strength and reflexes. What begins as a straightforward revenge story quickly evolves into a mind-bending exploration of control, consciousness, and morality.

What really makes Upgrade stand out is its balance of gritty action and philosophical questions about AI and human autonomy. The technology in the film is believable and fascinating, and the suspense builds beautifully as Grey uncovers unexpected layers of his situation. The ending? Completely blew my mind.

The acting by Logan Marshall-Green is phenomenal, especially considering how much of his character’s emotional journey happens through his expressions and physicality. Despite the absence of over-the-top action or ridiculous antics, the film never feels slow or bogged down. Instead, it maintains a perfect pace that keeps you hooked until the final, jaw-dropping twist.

Upgrade is a must-watch for anyone who loves thought-provoking sci-fi and intense, character-driven stories. Even without any singing, dancing, or slapstick humor, it proves that sometimes the most compelling stories are those that don’t need to rely on comedy to be engaging. Really earns the beer is optional rating from me.

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Unlock Adventure with The Recruit – A Free Novel Set in the Rifters Universe.

 

Do you love thrilling adventures, ancient mysteries, and secrets lurking in quiet towns? If so, you’re in for a treat! I’m excited to offer you The Recruit, FREE. This novel is an exciting prequel to The Rifters series. All you need to do is join the MPax Dimension.

Charming Moon Knight seems like she has her future all figured out. A safe, predictable career in paleontology with options for steady teaching jobs or staying in academia. But that’s not what she craves. Instead of lecture halls, Charming yearns for the excitement of discovery, the thrill of fieldwork, and the untold mysteries of the past.

When an unexpected invitation arrives from the Paleo Institute in Settler, Oregon, promising hands-on fieldwork and the opportunity to study Mesozoic marine dinosaurs, Charming can’t resist the lure of something more. Settler is a quiet town nestled within an ancient caldera—peaceful, serene, and seemingly perfect. But as Charming’s arrival stirs strange visions and an undeniable connection to the enigmatic Earl Blacke, she begins to suspect that this sleepy little town might not be what it seems.

As Charming delves deeper into the community, she uncovers a truth hidden beneath the surface: Settler is guarding a portal—a rift in the forest where creatures from other universes slip through. And all the while, a group known as the Rifters watches over this fragile world, ensuring that nothing slips through that shouldn’t.

But for Charming, this quiet town might be more than just a place for fieldwork—it could be her destiny, if she’s willing to face the unknown and everything that comes with it.

Why You’ll Love The Recruit

Mystery and Adventure: Dive into a world of ancient creatures, secret societies, and the unexpected as Charming discovers a hidden side of the world she never imagined.

A Strong Female Lead: Charming is smart, driven, and curious—perfect for readers who enjoy characters who are more than capable of tackling the unknown.

The Rifters Universe: The Recruit is set in the world of The Rifters series, offering a thrilling sneak peek at the larger adventure to come.

Get Your FREE Copy Now!

The Recruit is completely FREE to anyone who joins the MPax Dimension mailing list. You’ll get early access to updates, behind-the-scenes peeks at upcoming projects, and, of course, this exciting short adventure set in the Rifters universe!

Ready to start reading? Just click the link below to join the MPax Dimension and claim your free copy of The Recruit today!

Get The Recruit

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#Fantasy Worth Reading: A Court of Thorns and Roses #BookReview

 

A Court of Thorns and Roses: A Twisted and Engaging Retelling

I recently finished A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas, and I have to say, I’m impressed! At first, the story reminded me a lot of a retelling and reimagining of Beauty and the Beast—which, if you know me, I love. But while there are some similarities, this book brings so much more to the table than just a typical fairy-tale retelling.

A Familiar Yet Unpredictable Adventure

On the surface, A Court of Thorns and Roses follows a storyline that might seem familiar—an ordinary young woman who is thrust into a magical world and has to navigate a complicated relationship with a cursed beast. However, as you dive into the world Maas has created, you’ll quickly realize it’s so much more than that.

This is a world where fairies aren’t necessarily the kindly, whimsical creatures you might expect. Instead, they have their own agendas and aren’t always as nice as they seem. The twists and turns in this story kept me on my toes, and I loved how Maas subverted expectations at every corner. More than once, the book surprised me, and I found myself eagerly turning the pages to see what would happen next.

World-Building and Complex Characters

One of the standout features of A Court of Thorns and Roses is the world-building. Maas creates a richly detailed and immersive world that feels both magical and dangerous. The realm of the Fae is beautifully crafted, full of mystery and intrigue. I could practically feel the magic pulsing through the pages.

Equally impressive are the characters. Feyre, the protagonist, is both strong and vulnerable, with a depth that I didn’t expect. The relationships she navigates are complicated, layered with emotion and hidden motivations. This isn’t just a story about a girl and a beast—it’s a journey of survival, power, and self-discovery. The characters’ complexities added so much richness to the plot, and I found myself invested in their growth throughout the story.

Final Thoughts

Overall, A Court of Thorns and Roses is a captivating read that blends familiar fairy-tale elements with unexpected twists. With great world-building, compelling characters, and a plot full of surprises, I thoroughly enjoyed the adventure. This book has me hooked, and I’m definitely planning to read more of the series to see where it goes.

Happy reading, and here’s to more magical adventures!

 

 

 

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Inner Sol vs. Outer Sol

The Great Divide in the Squad 51 Universe

It’s not just space that separates the Inner and Outer Sol colonies. It’s history, power, and a whole lot of snobbery.

Where the Line is Drawn

The line is unofficial but sharp. Everything from Earth out to Saturn is considered Inner Sol. Beyond Saturn—Uranus, Neptune, the Kuiper Belt, and all the scattered rocks and moons in between—is Outer Sol.

The division isn’t just geography. It’s about status.

A History of Control

The Inner Sol colonies were the first wave of humanity’s expansion off Earth. They got the best resources, the cushiest planets, the political power. When the corporations collapsed, those Inner Sol colonies styled themselves as the new heart of civilization.

The Outer Sol? That was something else.

The first Outer Sol colonies were built for one reason: exploitation. They were outposts set up to mine, harvest, and ship resources back to the Inner Sol, supporting their “civilized” lifestyles. The Outer Sol became a dumping ground. Some colonies were founded by workers bound to brutal contracts, others by people the Inner Sol didn’t want.

If that sounds familiar, history repeats itself, even among the stars.

The Mini Suns and the Fight for Independence

It was the invention of the mini suns that changed everything.

The Outer Sol colonies were barely hanging on. Far from the Sun’s warmth, survival was a daily struggle. The Inner Sol colonies developed technology to create artificial suns, claiming they’d “graciously” share them with their struggling cousins.

But the Outer Sol didn’t wait to be rescued.

In a bold move during the second rebellion, the Outer Sol colonies stole the plans and key components to the mini sun technology. It was risky. It was illegal. And it worked.

With access to the mini suns and the natural resources around them, the Outer Sol colonies became truly independent. They no longer needed the Inner Sol’s charity or control.

Lingering Tensions

The split left scars.

In the Inner Sol likes to pretend they’re still the center of the universe. There’s an unspoken belief that being closer to Earth makes you better—smarter, more refined, more civilized. It’s the same kind of snobbery you see in old Earth cities, where living in the right district or having the right name means everything.

In the Outer Sol, that attitude doesn’t go unnoticed. Outlings know exactly how the Inner Sol used them in the past and how quickly they’d do it again if given the chance. The Outer colonies don’t forget. They don’t trust easily. And they don’t bow to anyone.

The tension simmers beneath every alliance, every trade agreement, every conversation. It has mellowed over the decades and centuries, but it’s still there.

Curious about the worlds of Squad 51?
I’ll be sharing more behind-the-scenes looks at the history, tech, and factions of the Squad 51 universe as we countdown to the Kickstarter launch. Follow along to dive deeper into the chaos.

SQUAD 51 LAUNCH

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Project and Writing Update! Ahead of Schedule!

 

Salutations, interstellar voyagers!
Incoming transmission: here’s the May report on current missions, new launches, and cosmic adventures!

Project One: Completing the Space Squad 51 Series

Status: Gaining momentum!

Spaceberg: Currently in edits with more spit and polish, and the addition of bonus extras to make the story more immersive. Be on the look out for the launch of the new version in ebook soon! (between end of May and mid June).Space Trash: First edit completed. It’s on hold for a more spit and polish and more bonus extras.Space Hitched: A new addition to Space Squad 51. This bonus story comes between Space Trash and Space Weed. First round of editing is complete. It idles while I write Space Weed.Space Weed: First draft done. First edit done.Space Worms: Another new addition with a rough outline. This new story will be a stretch goal for Kickstarter backers. Don’t miss out!Space Rock: Another new addition with a rough outline. This new story will be another stretch goal for Kickstarter backers.Exciting News: I’ll be creating bonus content to make my stories more immersive from here on out. Bonus extras complete for Space Hitched and Space Weed. Some are done for Space Trash. Will add them in for Spaceberg when the first draft of Space Weed is complete.

Tentative launch date set for August 5th! Sign up for the prelaunch of the Kickstarter Launch Party so you don’t miss out on anything! Launch is getting closer! PRELAUNCH

Project Two: Third Star Rising

Status: Steady as she goes!

This short story (or novella, if it decides to grow wings) is halfway plotted, with a partial draft already making its orbit.

Project Three: Mood Bubbles (Working Title)

Status: Rising on the horizon!

This story’s emotional atmosphere is 75% plotted, and I can already see its sparkling potential. At an estimated 20,000+ words, it’s set to be a novella that bursts with meaning—and bubbles, of course!

Project Four: Completing the Rifters Series

Status: Charting new dimensions!

The Generals (Rifters Book 5): At 30% plotted, this novel is laying the foundation for epic twists and turns. My target is 70-80,000 words, and it’s going to be worth the wait!Untitled (Rifters Book 6): The final installment is 5% plotted, but hey, the adventure is just beginning. My aim? Another 70-80,000 words of world-saving, dimension-bending awesomeness.Project Five: Serial, Shroomtopia

Status: In progress on my new Discord channel, Paxport. It’s a freebie. Come join me and let’s get to know each other better.  DISCORD

 

Project Six: Cherry Bomb 9000

Status: Partly written. This will be the next serial on my Discord channel. Ooo. 

 

Keep your comms open for more updates, and get ready for some interstellar stories headed your way soon. One of the short stories will be a freebie for my mailing list. If you haven’t joined the M. Pax Dimension yet, well, get over there! MPAX DIMENSION

Stay tuned for cover reveals and exciting developments as I put my heart into these projects. Until then, happy reading and dreaming!

Stay tuned and peace out,
M. Pax

 

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Why Kickstarter is the Perfect Way to Celebrate a Series and Reward Fans

As an author, one of the most exciting things I get to do is connect with my readers in a meaningful way. And what better way to do that than through Kickstarter? It’s a platform that allows me to offer unique features and extras that aren’t available through traditional distribution channels. Plus, it lets you, my amazing readers, become part of the creation process.

For the Squad 51 series, I’m launching a Kickstarter campaign that goes beyond just the books. Here’s what you can expect:

Print books: You’ll get your hands on physical copies of the Squad 51 series, perfect for any bookshelf.

Bonus extras: Special features like artwork, behind-the-scenes content, and digital goodies will enhance your reading experience and immerse you in the world of Squad 51 even more.

An extra book, Space Hitched: This exclusive book will only be available through the Kickstarter campaign, offering even more of the hilarious space adventures you love.

Why Kickstarter? Because it’s not just about funding. It’s about celebrating the series and rewarding the fans who’ve been there every step of the way. I get to offer things I can’t do with traditional publishing, like limited editions, personalized rewards, and sneak peeks into the creative process.

How to Sign Up for the Squad 51 Kickstarter Campaign

Ready to jump in and join the fun? Here’s how you can sign up and support the Squad 51 series on Kickstarter:

Go to the Kickstarter Campaign Page: You can find it [here—insert link].

Choose Your Pledge Level: You can support the campaign at various levels, depending on what extras you want, whether it’s a single ebook or a full collection with prints, digital bonuses, and Space Hitched.

Follow the Progress: Once you back the campaign, you’ll get updates on new content, stretch goals, and cool rewards as the project progresses.

Enjoy the Rewards: Once the campaign is successfully funded, you’ll receive your rewards—whether that’s a special edition, signed books, or other fun bonuses.

With Kickstarter, you’re not just buying a book; you’re supporting the creation of something special, and I can’t wait to celebrate Squad 51 with all of you.

SQUAD 51

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