Unlocking Geopolitical Intrigue in A New Past: Book Three

One of the problems with writing Erotic Science Fiction is the fact that many potential readers assume the focus is on the erotic elements rather than the underlying science fiction and general plot. To try and overcome this perception, I’m sharing some excerpts from my series, A New Past to share some of the “non-erotic” elements. This excerpt is from Book Three, Chapter 2 and shows some of the interaction Paul has with the television world as he and Jeryl continue to define and expand the genre of “reality television” with a scientific bent.

“So, Paul, anything you can share about this year’s season of ‘The Interns’?” Joan Lunden asked.

“That would be telling tales out of school,” I replied with a smile. 

We were filming a segment for Good Morning America.  The network had asked that we do a more in-depth piece that they could include in a live broadcast closer to the season premier.  Once we figured out the schedules, Joan had flown out to California to tape the segment.

She smiled for the camera and then looked back at me.  “One of the things that appeals to almost every fan of the show, is the mix of physical and mental challenges you present. What types of hurdles will interns face this year?”

“As we say on the show quite a bit, I think it’s better to show, than tell.  How would you like to face one of the challenges they will experience?” 

Her laugh sounded natural and un-forced.  “I’m usually up for a challenge.”

“Well then let’s get you suited up.”

“Cut!” the director called.  We had roughly scripted this introduction.  

“We’ve got all the gear you’ll need,” Tamara said as she stepped closer.  She was helping cover this challenge as part of our own run through to make sure everything was set. 

“What torture are you planning for me?” Joan asked as she stood and began following Tamara to her dressing room.

“No torture.  We’ll be having the interns do some zero-g work for part of one of their challenges.  We thought it might make a good segment for your show, if we showed you in the same environment.  We don’t want to spoil the challenge but showing you floating and working with Paul to get used to the environment should be a nice teaser for the audience.”

Joan looked a little skeptical.

“Don’t worry, I did the full training a few weeks ago.  Once your inner ear adjusts, it’s kind of fun.”

Three hours later, Joan let out a little shriek as she floated away from the wall and found herself unable to get ahold of anything to move under her own control.

“Simulation, my ass!” she said with a laugh.

I reached out for her hand and pulled her back to the small platform we were supposed to stay next too.

“So, as you can see, the interns are going to have to develop some new thought patterns as they work in this type of environment.  They will get a couple of days in zero-g for one challenge and have to learn to not just live but work up here.”

I had arranged for a quick hop to Edwards followed by a launch of an orbiter just for the show.  The cargo bay had been fitted with a large, pressurized habitat that contained the padded training space they would occupy.  Their challenge would be to help improve and finalize the layout of facilities in a zero-g environment, but we did not want to spoil that challenge today.

“I bet they learn to not stray from the handholds pretty quickly,” Joan said before deliberately pushing off to sail across to the opposite bulkhead.

I followed her across, nodding.

“I think that is a lesson they will learn quickly.”

We finished filming with a couple of mid-air flips before the pilot announced we needed to return to our seats for the start of our de-orbit maneuvers.

“I can’t believe you kidnapped me and shot me into space,” Joan joked once we were back on terra firma.

“It can’t be kidnapping when your producer sends you on the job,” I replied. 

“I suppose not.  I think you just made me the first journalist in orbit.  Thank you.”

I smiled.  “You are welcome.  I guess I’ll see you in New York in a few weeks.”  

We shook hands and parted ways. 

Book Three is the epic conclusion of Paul’s tale and sees him lock-horns with geopolitical adversaries as he works to make a better world. A New Past is available on Amazon, as well as Smashwords and other ebook channels.

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