When David Jordan, an extraterrestrial human in appearance, agrees to help U.N. Secretary General Nicholas Straka resolve an escalating nuclear crisis, he also learns he must defuse a horrifying plot to exterminate humanity by a hostile race of beings who despise human culture. Somehow, he must thwart both crises before a worldwide intervention is launched by his superiors, destroying human innocence in the process. In Reason for Existence, David learns the origins of human conflict, the nature of secret societies, the true meaning of friendship, and the enduring qualities of love.
Richard Botelho is the author of the forthcoming The Full Extent: An Inquiry Into Reality and Destiny. He also wrote the philosophical science fiction novel Reason for Existence as well as two other books, The New Individualism: Personal Change to Transform Society, a non-fiction social commentary, used in over 100 colleges and universities across America, favorably reviewed in The Midwest Quarterly and other scholarly journals, and winner of the S.C.P.H.C. Gold Award for Philosophy in 1996; and Leah’s Way, his first novel, which received a rave review in the February 1st, 2004 edition of Library Journal. He has a B.A. and M.A. in Government from California State University, Sacramento, graduating with honors. His work has also been reviewed in Philosophy East and West and The Review of Metaphysics.
Always eccentric, Richard believed the system kept people "categorized" and unable to see a larger picture. So his works have focused on an interdisciplinary approach since it allows for a larger and more accurate perspective. He also found it particularly bizarre that the greatest discoveries in life come from piecing different parts of knowledge together, yet the system often discourages such integrative thinking. It appears it was being done with intent. Perhaps we should all be asking "by whom, and for what purpose?" In fact, no one has assimilated all of knowledge in a comprehensive way so that we can truly make sense of this world. That is the objective of his forthcoming exploration of reality entitled The Full Extent: An Inquiry Into Reality and Destiny.
The revised, edited Goodreads version following initial, abbreviated version on Amazon . . .
Reason for Existence by Richard Botelho will be or has already been released, and I was asked to contribute a brief, honest review on Amazon.com. This will be a longer and a bit more detailed (in some regards) than the one, initially posted on Amazon. Reason for Existence is an example in my mind of a “first contact” mission that would be afforded to us as a combination hello, wake-up call, and “coming to Jesus” event, all rolled into one. Here’s what I mean.
The phrase “first contact” has a specific meaning in science fiction as a general rule, specifically the first time there is a physical manifestation of an alien (non-indigenous, sentient life) presence to indigenous, sentient lifeforms of or from Earth, the only planet capable of sustaining life as we know it. This manifestation may run the gamut of extremes from benign introduction to all-out armed invasion and subjugation, if not extermination. We generally hope for the benign approach rather than any of the other, less desirable options. Sometimes the manifestation has been subtle and non-provocative, so far that is all we might have seen (no guarantees there whatsoever). We definitely have not seen an all-out invasion with interplanetary war breaking out, and with us being on the short end of the extinction measuring device.
In Mr. Botelho’s story, we see humanoid (aliens who appear outwardly to be human) aliens from several races in place on Earth in very inconspicuous circumstances, positions of employment, etc. So where’s the fun in that you ask? Well ‘. . . thar’s tha rub, lads ‘n’ lassies.” Humans being humans, we can’t seem to get things going well in all circumstances and locales. And in the near future, if not already in work, there appears to be a time coming soon when the term “nuclear proliferation” may take on a sinister, more radical and devastating nature – unconventional fighters armed with unconventional weapons with the ability to carry in a box the means for destroying the larger part of a major city or other area with many innocent non-combatant individuals at extreme risk. In the case presented in Reason for Existence, ¬¬Mr. Botelho takes the ideas of radical extremism and marries that idea up with state sponsorship, so you can get anything you can pay for as long as you are bent on serious destruction of that state’s principal enemy or nemesis.
An excellent read for just about anyone. Why? Style, pace, attention grasp, and clarity are the reasons I feel this way. Here’s why. As the reader you want a thriller even one with a hook to science fiction to carry you forward with some élan, panache, and zone 5 afterburner jets blazing! Carry you, Mr. Botelho’s writing does in a style that is crisp, descriptive, and full of inferential references to keep the reader guessing what is going to happen next on what appears to be a fast track to Armageddon. His pace rivals the flash of international communications where countries are recalling ambassador, missiles are fueling preparing for launch, and the skies are inexplicably the home for a seeming armada of UFOs. Keeping these events sorted out while blending in an interstellar character or two is a challenge that Mr. Botelho handles with smooth transitions and a tight grasp on your lapels -- the race of all times, always at a breakneck pace. His descriptions of the events and characters both human and alien, military and cabalist, terrorist and zealot, all center in the end on one clear fact – we are not alone, and the outsiders are seriously considering ending the human species before they have the chance to burn the planet into a radioactive briquette – their overriding mission is to save the Earth at all costs as it is a rare life sustaining planet. Orchestrating the entire story is a cabal known only as Miami and an interstellar interloper intent on keeping the unthinkable from happening regardless of what that unthinkable entails. David Jordan is the protagonist and one of these interlopers. He works with successive characters on an international treasure hunt for the elusive, but all powerful Miami cabal, while learning that more is known about alien intervention than has ever been made public. In the final analysis you will find . . ., but who am I to spoil that ending for you. After all the title tells you that someone or something exists for a reason at the close, right? Read on and enjoy Mr. Botelho’s tour de force – one of his best works to date! Excellent thriller from the first page to the last!!!
Disclaimer: I was given a free copy of this book in return for an honest review.
I won a copy of this book on my sister's current Goodreads account, Nicoleta (The Cover Hoarder), through a Goodreads giveaway back in October, and I've well, I've forgotten about it, up until now. She brought it from home and I took up the task of reading it... or at least making an attempt to read it.
I dunno if it's the genre or the premise but this book is REALLY boring. Or let me rephrase: I can't find anything in this book that I can get attached to. Not the characters, not the plot, not the setting, not atmosphere - there is not even such a thing. The premise of the plot is your same old doomsday via biological weapons. That would have been nice, had you had a reason to care about the world. It is not displayed as having living, breathing characters in it. This world is just a notion. As such, the premise implied by the novel's title does not come into play because there are no characters/people to feel for.
The main character David Jordan is presented as an extraterestrial being in the shape of the human - with even the same sexual urges and chemistry.... WHAT?! - that is tasked to safeguard earth from such sort of threats. Problem is that he is presented as the chosen one, the only one that can stop this world-wide biological weapon crisis.... and I find that very Gary-Stu-ish *sigh*.
Right off the bat we are presented with so many names of organizations, of people, of political intrigue and countries and whatnot, that I was just wondering: "Should I give a damn about these names?" Because in the end, they're just names, without any import or explanation! And they fall flat when it comes to conveying either an explanation or sentiment. That being said, I felt really disconnected when I read the novel, because... goddamn it, man! I don't care about the characters!
Should I judge this novel as being a work of philosophical debate and spiritual debate? I am so sorry. I will not. IT'S A NOVEL! That's why I do not like the Lord of the Rings books - the characters are devices in a beautiful setting. Here the characters are devices forwarding a concept. And that concept has bored the wits outta me.
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
This is a curious sci-fi novel blending extra-terrestrials, world politics and the all too real threat of biological warfare/nuclear war. Featuring an alien who ponders the existential questions of life - who is trying to save the world - all while attempting to understand the truth of human love creates an intriguing premise...but it didn't meet its potential. The novel read like a technical manual of theories/organizations with constant name/place dropping and random use of obscure vocabulary. As a (political) thriller, it was decent but it wasn't for me - perhaps others will enjoy it more that I did.
Thanks to the author and publisher for making this book available to GoodReads Giveaways.
This is a pretty good story that the reader will finish quickly. It is suspenseful, and thrilling, and I could not put it down once I started. You can tell Mr. Botelho is a philosopher, as he has a way of describing humans and our flaws that is very accurate. It is a science fiction thriller, and the author mixes current events with aliens and conspiracy theories. The story will definitely make you think about the possibilities.
When a philosopher decides to write a thriller, the result is this fast paced , action packed book with deep insights into the human condition. Richard Botelho has taken pages out of today's headlines and combined them with science fiction and philosophy. The result is at once uplifting and absorbing. This is an elegant story teller who is also brilliant at playing with words. I highly recommend this book.
Let me start this review by saying that books like this keep me coming back to Science Fiction. Mr. Botelho has a unique way with words that captures you and keeps you reading no matter what. I read most of the book in one day. I am a stay at home mom so I can do that on occasion and this one was well worth it! I saved the last 3 chapters for the next day because I didn't want it to end.
The main character in this story is David Jordan. David looks and acts like a human, but he is not. He is a very intelligent and an asset to his profession, but he is missing something that humans covet. He is asked by a friend to help divert a crisis. That friend happens to be the Secretary-General of the United Nations. You see, global powers are bringing things to a head with regards to nuclear war. Economic sanctions are stifling countries all over the world. And they are starting to try to fight back. This could be World War III. A war which no one would survive. The people pushing for war do not know the devastating consequences that David knows will come to pass if something is not done. If humans do not quell this panic. He is on a hunt for a human answer. To find it he must consult with the brightest minds the world has ever known and then assimilate this information into some kind of answer for U.N. Secretary Straka. Throughout his meetings and travels, David is given information that seems pertinent, he is also given more than he bargains for, in my opinion. Being from another world lends him something more.
I don't like spoilers so I will leave it there. This book was not only a great thrill ride and full of mystery but also educational. I felt like these things could happen. Not some fantasy world but our world. Things are growing more chaotic daily and you can see where Mr. Botelho's story could be possible. Scary and invigorating at the same time. Is it prophetic, or just some great writing? Either way, this was a great philosophical journey that I hope you take as well! Brilliant and terrifying in it's "currentness" this book will make you stop and think!
What David finds for himself in this book, is the best gift of all, but you will have to read it to find out what that gift is. Thank you to the author for providing me with a pre-release copy. I will read it again I am sure!
If you like Science Fiction, this book is for you. If you like romance, this book is for you. If you like political suspense, this book is for you. If you like action, this book is for you…I think you’re getting the idea now! This book is worthy of discussion on any academic level. I found Reason for Existence extremely deep. Botelho has a talent for provoking thought.
When I finished the book, I actually had to stop and think. Seriously, just sit and think; I’ve never had this happen before. I can’t imagine any two people coming out of this book with the same feelings or thoughts.
Reason for Existence is not a fast read, but it IS a smooth read. Overall, I loved the book so I rate it with a strong 4.5 stars....Beth
I received this book as a goodreads exchange giveaway gift. At first I wasn't sure what to expect, it all seemed a little too sci-fi for me, with extraterrestrial beings and nuclear and biological wars threatening to destroy the planet but I have to say that I read it all on my one week beach vacation and I couldn't put it down. It is an original (at least for me that I'm not used to read on this genre) theme, creative, and it makes you think. I definitely recommend it to everyone who is interested in reading more on this genre.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. There is so much going on here: aliens, nuclear war/impending doom, world affairs, politics and love. I found it difficult to put down and actually learned some things along the way. The author obviously did his research. It is an intense, intellectual, action-packed read that left me very satisfied in the end. I would LOVE to see this on the big screen.
This was a satisfying read and a real page-turner. I especially enjoyed the elements of philosophical thinking. This made Reason for Existence not just an entertaining science fiction novel but also educational. Highly recommended.
(I received the book for free through Goodreads Giveaways in exchange for an honest review.)
This frighteningly plausible premise will leave you questioning our world. Deeply provocative and richly detailed, Richard Botelho paints a remarkable picture of incomparable depth. The powerfully driven narrative takes the reader on a chilling and fascinating journey. Beautifully written, this book will pique your curiosity and leave your spine tingling. A brilliant work of....fiction?
"Reason for Existence is a unique blend of sci-fi and conspiracy theories. It is full of anticipation and excitement. Nothing has more potential for enhancing ones mind of possibilities that may prevail. An endlessly fascinating flavor of what if the unimaginable became imaginable."
I can't believe this book only gets an average 4-star rating. It is a good story, with intriguing characters. More than that, it delves deeply into philosophical concepts regarding human society and the very nature of human beings. I found the mood and sentiments of the main character haunting and uplifting. This is the second time I read this book.
I only wish Mr. Botelho had written more books. I only know of one other - Leah's Way, which I had to buy used since no new copies are available. That was a good read, too, though a very different kind of story.
It started slow, then just flew. A good treatise on the build up to World War III. The analysis of man (the species) led me thru many hills and valleys. In the end I think the conclusions are wise, much to my surprise!
I am not sure why the title was chosen. The story is basically that humanity has a crisis. The various countries in the world seem to be going towards war, and within humanity there are a number off various alien races embedded, two of which have decided that they will catalyse humanity's destruction. There is another race that wants to stop this, and they too have embedded agents, one of which is the main protagonist, David Jordan. As the world heads increasingly towards destruction, the story has Jordan travel to meet various people to discuss what has gone wrong. In short, the book is essentially the author's philosophical thinking on what is wrong with current society, and why it is falling into chaos. (There is the premise it is.) As an example, one of the human experts believes it is due to the scarcity of resources, and evolution requires some to fight and control them. Another bases the argument on entropy: physics is sending the world into chaos. I have no problem with the author doing this, but I feel there should be a significant part in which something gets implemented, in other words, there has to be some doing as opposed to talking in the story.
From my point of view, there were a number of problems. I cannot really see how Jordan talking to people can reasonably influence the outcome. He did make some useful guesses to subvert one act by the opposition, but the ending does not follow from such guesses. In my view, the arguments about entropy show a lack of understanding of the nature of entropy. Now a piece of SF can be excused for getting something like that wrong, but there is less excuse when it is central to the story. I also find it hard to fathom that if one alien race is trying to achieve something while another is trying to subvert it, the first cannot find anything more useful to do than have a philosophical discussion. I really want to promote authors who give the readers something to think about, but for me there are a few too many flaws in this.
I received a free copy of this book from GoodReads.
Richard Botelho is a smooth and accomplished writer. Reason for Existence flows well and under normal circumstances I'd give it 4 or 5 stars. You might well enjoy it and I endorse it unless you object to the misuse of science or empty plotlines.
Botelho has a definite and strong point of view as can be read in his blog. He promotes a new-agey universal consciousness viewpoint and uses pseudoscience to justify his point of view. There are dozens of dogeared pages in my review copy where I jotted down notes to myself with objections to this and that. It's funny now but I was quite upset at some of these ideas, particularly the misuse of the second law of thermodynamics---the same misuse that the anti-evolution crowd uses in their arguments. If this sorta thing doesn't get your goat, then dig in, Reason for Existence is well written and exquisitely organized. It should be noted that most of the plot exists solely to allow several characters to voice their philosophy to the protagonist, and thus to the reader.
“Okay, it goes something like this: societal elites attempt to boost their nation’s standard of living to maintain their own personal power, but only to the extent that their power is maintained, nothing more.” Ch 10; Pg. 94
Reason for Existence by Richard Bothelo
This is a story of a not-too-distant future, the year 2017 during which a near WWIII is about to occur. In addition to super powers already known, there are extraterrestrial influences and the main protagonist has been specially placed among us to monitor and keep watch.
The author has gone beyond brilliance in his research of human philosophies and the subject of physics. The latter is not one of my interests, yet he effectively lays out several premises and theories which explain the constant warring among earth’s inhabitants, all as part of a very riveting story line.
I was surprised to see ‘The One’ referenced, as at first, a discussion of man’s evolution between characters might have meant a supreme being would be left out of the story. Not so, and the author has successfully created a very believable universe, where both evolution and creation exist.
Dialogues are flawless and interchanges reveal the various characters’ traits clearly. Impending doom screams in the reader’s mind while the main character goes calmly about his assigned search for a worldwide solution to the holocaust that quickly builds.
I finished the book in one afternoon, impossible to put it down for another time. The subject is impending war and how one individual is called upon to find a solution. Along the way he finds out more about himself and the human race than he ever expected. Linda J Pifer
9/2/17, Beijing, China. San Francisco, CA. (Associated Press). U.N. Secretary General Nicholas Straka (Williams College, Greece) has called upon David Jordan (Williams College, extraterrestrial human form) help resolve a worldly nuclear holocaust crisis. There is also a plot to annihilate the human race. Will David be able to solve both world problems?
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review. Only an honest one.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written historical fiction book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great foreign political movie, or mini TV series. There is no doubt in my mind this is a very easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free Story Cartel; PDF book Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
Reason for Existence is outstanding! It covers a couple of genres, mainly Science fiction, politics, and romance. David Jordan is planted on the earth ready to initiate and influence humans towards a peaceful life, even if they are targeted by his alien nemesis, Eric Waller and the Illicks. David was able to help the humans before they attempt destroy themselves with nuclear or biological bombs. The humans were unaware that the aliens were able to neutralize the bombs to preserve life, but it would not be life as we know it now. David’s greatest search was to understand the emotions that humans have, namely the feeling of love. Just as he was about to expound on love and express the love he has for his girlfriend Jenny, she is killed in a plane crash caused by Eric Waller. He then understands the true feelings of love, and what it means to lose it.
I really enjoyed this book, and it went right along with another book I am reading. The message about spirituality was very good. Thinking about how mankind would save itself if it came to a nuclear or biological war was very scary. You know that could really happen. I would have liked more background on the characters. I felt like there was a book written about the people before this one. I wanted to know more about David and how he came to be on Earth. Who or what was the Council? What was their planet like?
I received a copy of the book through Goodreads First Reads. I can't really pinpoint what was missing but I wasn't sucked in the world of the book. It took a long time to finish it. I guess it's just not for me. I did find it interesting in "I wanna know how it ends" kind of way but not in "I can't wait to get home and continue reading" kind of way. Since I think it deserves more than 3 stars, but slightly less than 4 I'd give it a 3,7 stars.
Enter extraterrestrial David Jordan. Main character in this thought provoking book. David is sent to earth to befriend Nicholas Straka. They find themselves embroiled with an evil race that is determined to eradicate humanity. The fight is on with others drawn in to this battle. Has a little romance between David and a human young woman. Held my interest and went rather fast. Thank you to Richard Botelho and Goodreads.
Couldn't give this book a full 5 star rating; it reads like a newspaper. I almost gave up reading but at chapter 7 it began to come together. I would not recommend this to just anyone as it is tedious reading. However the conclusion was the punch line to the tit!e
The world is on the brink of World War III. The Secretary General of the United Nations calls on a businessman to resolve an escalating nuclear crisis. Only the businessman isn't human. He is an alien living on Earth to observe humans.
Very different type of book. Not an action novel. More philosophical and has events a little too close to current day.
5 STARS I really enjoyed this book. I, too,have always felt there must be other being outside of our planet. To think of super beings watching us and intervening when necessary to preserve the planet. I agree that the ability to LOVE unconditionally is the one great gift of humans.