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People of the Sun
All life comes from the sun. Sometimes, death comes with it.
Filled with hope and compelled by fear, four would-be heroes are driven from their home planet in a desperate bid to save their civilization from extinction. But survival takes on a whole new meaning when a malfunction sends their ship plummeting toward Earth.
Surviving the crash is only the first obstacle on their path to salvation. The marooned aliens soon discover that Earth’s beautiful exterior masks an ugly foundation, a place inhabited by a warrior race that’s on a path toward self-destruction.
Brimming with action and intrigue, People of the Sun is sure to entice fans of dark fantasy and sci-fi thrillers such as Watchmen and I Am Number Four.
"Jason Parent has penned a thought-provoking, gripping scifi thriller. This isn't your grandma's alien invasion. My own world stopped the moment I stepped into People of the Sun. Lovers of science fiction, horror and even super heroes will revel in this roller-coaster of a tale. A true must-read!" Hunter Shea, author of We Are Always Watching and The Jersey Devil
“With his own indelible blend of tension and dark humor, Jason Parent’s latest page-turner reminds me of what you’d get if you crossed Isaac Asimov with Kurt Vonnegut. In addition to being fast-paced and wildly entertaining, Parent’s novel also offers the occasional flash of insight into the human (and not-so-human) condition, and displays Parent’s talent for turning a given genre on its head.” -Michael Meyerhofer, author of The Dragonkin Trilogy
Filled with hope and compelled by fear, four would-be heroes are driven from their home planet in a desperate bid to save their civilization from extinction. But survival takes on a whole new meaning when a malfunction sends their ship plummeting toward Earth.
Surviving the crash is only the first obstacle on their path to salvation. The marooned aliens soon discover that Earth’s beautiful exterior masks an ugly foundation, a place inhabited by a warrior race that’s on a path toward self-destruction.
Brimming with action and intrigue, People of the Sun is sure to entice fans of dark fantasy and sci-fi thrillers such as Watchmen and I Am Number Four.
"Jason Parent has penned a thought-provoking, gripping scifi thriller. This isn't your grandma's alien invasion. My own world stopped the moment I stepped into People of the Sun. Lovers of science fiction, horror and even super heroes will revel in this roller-coaster of a tale. A true must-read!" Hunter Shea, author of We Are Always Watching and The Jersey Devil
“With his own indelible blend of tension and dark humor, Jason Parent’s latest page-turner reminds me of what you’d get if you crossed Isaac Asimov with Kurt Vonnegut. In addition to being fast-paced and wildly entertaining, Parent’s novel also offers the occasional flash of insight into the human (and not-so-human) condition, and displays Parent’s talent for turning a given genre on its head.” -Michael Meyerhofer, author of The Dragonkin Trilogy
- GenresScience FictionFantasy
311 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 15, 2017
6 people are currently reading
609 people want to read
About the author
Jason Parent
50 books690 followersIn his head, Jason Parent lives in many places, but in the real world, he calls New England his home. The region offers an abundance of settings for his writing and many wonderful places in which to write them. He currently resides in Southeastern Massachusetts with his cuddly corgi named Calypso.
In a prior life, Jason spent most of his time in front of a judge . . . as a civil litigator. When he finally tired of Latin phrases no one knew how to pronounce and explaining to people that real lawsuits are not started, tried and finalized within the 60-minute timeframe they see on TV (it's harassing the witness; no one throws vicious woodland creatures at them), he traded in his cheap suits for flip flops and designer stubble. The flops got repossessed the next day, and he's back in the legal field . . . sorta. But that's another story.
When he's not working, Jason likes to kayak, catch a movie, travel any place that will let him enter, and play just about any sport (except that ball tied to the pole thing where you basically just whack the ball until it twists into a knot or takes somebody's head off - he misses the appeal). And read and write, of course. He does that too sometimes.
Please visit the author on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/AuthorJasonP..., on Twitter at https://twitter.com/AuthorJasParent, or at his website, http://authorjasonparent.com/, for information regarding upcoming events or releases, or if you have any questions or comments for him.
In a prior life, Jason spent most of his time in front of a judge . . . as a civil litigator. When he finally tired of Latin phrases no one knew how to pronounce and explaining to people that real lawsuits are not started, tried and finalized within the 60-minute timeframe they see on TV (it's harassing the witness; no one throws vicious woodland creatures at them), he traded in his cheap suits for flip flops and designer stubble. The flops got repossessed the next day, and he's back in the legal field . . . sorta. But that's another story.
When he's not working, Jason likes to kayak, catch a movie, travel any place that will let him enter, and play just about any sport (except that ball tied to the pole thing where you basically just whack the ball until it twists into a knot or takes somebody's head off - he misses the appeal). And read and write, of course. He does that too sometimes.
Please visit the author on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/AuthorJasonP..., on Twitter at https://twitter.com/AuthorJasParent, or at his website, http://authorjasonparent.com/, for information regarding upcoming events or releases, or if you have any questions or comments for him.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
July 4, 2017
A couple of local men find what appears to be an alien craft that has landed in what was the day before a lake but is now completely dry as the desert. The craft is radiating so much heat that it doesn't seem possible to get close to it. While waiting for the authorities to show up the men stumble up four alien creatures and things get a little intense when they can't communicate.
Soon it's found that the alien group has escaped their planet in an attempt to save their on species from extinction. They find that here on Earth water seems to revitalize their species but with this discovery comes even more abilities they didn't know were possible. Not only is the situation between the humans and the aliens but the small group of marooned visitors find themselves questioning each other.
People of the Sun is a science fiction fantasy read by Jason Parent. I was quite curious as to what the book would hold having read a few horror stories from this author and found this to be a quite creative take on a crash landing on our planet.
The story had some nice world building to it that gave the story of where the visitors had come from and what it was like for them. There was also some nice development to the plot that gave depth to the story of what would it be like if this type of thing actually happened. As with our own human race not everyone is the same and the group of aliens had their own personalities which progressed the story forward and made for interesting reading. Lots of action and adventure and a nice read overall.
I received a copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.wordpress....
Soon it's found that the alien group has escaped their planet in an attempt to save their on species from extinction. They find that here on Earth water seems to revitalize their species but with this discovery comes even more abilities they didn't know were possible. Not only is the situation between the humans and the aliens but the small group of marooned visitors find themselves questioning each other.
People of the Sun is a science fiction fantasy read by Jason Parent. I was quite curious as to what the book would hold having read a few horror stories from this author and found this to be a quite creative take on a crash landing on our planet.
The story had some nice world building to it that gave the story of where the visitors had come from and what it was like for them. There was also some nice development to the plot that gave depth to the story of what would it be like if this type of thing actually happened. As with our own human race not everyone is the same and the group of aliens had their own personalities which progressed the story forward and made for interesting reading. Lots of action and adventure and a nice read overall.
I received a copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.wordpress....
April 28, 2017
People of the Sun is a science fiction tale with heart!
Have you ever wondered how the world would react if we ever made "first contact" (to borrow from Star Trek, that's right, I'm a Trekkie), with an alien race? As Dave Matthews asks in his song Time Bomb, "If Martians fell from the sky, what would that do to God? Would we put the weapons down, or aim them up at the sky?" This book has its own way of answering that question.
When we imagine aliens, we might think of little green men, or ET or perhaps "gray men." However we might think of them, we do seem to think of them as all alike. This book addresses the likely fact that they are NOT all the same, that each of them has a personality just as we do. What happens if some of them are good and some are not? Everything becomes that much more complicated, doesn't it?
I'm not going further into the plot because the synopsis and several other reviews already do that. I will say that this book made me think of our likely response,(as a nation), and what I came up with was not pretty. It gets exponentially worse when I think of our response as a WORLD, with all of our different governments, with great and petty leaders alike. I think Mr. Parent's take on all this was realistic and it caused me to think about all of these issues and more.
Even though this was mainly a science-fiction novel, it had elements of horror. It was also well written. A good story entertains, has complex characters and it makes you think. People of the Sun has all that and as such I recommend it!
*Thanks to the author for a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. This is it. Further, I consider this author to be a friend, but this did not affect the content of my review.*
Have you ever wondered how the world would react if we ever made "first contact" (to borrow from Star Trek, that's right, I'm a Trekkie), with an alien race? As Dave Matthews asks in his song Time Bomb, "If Martians fell from the sky, what would that do to God? Would we put the weapons down, or aim them up at the sky?" This book has its own way of answering that question.
When we imagine aliens, we might think of little green men, or ET or perhaps "gray men." However we might think of them, we do seem to think of them as all alike. This book addresses the likely fact that they are NOT all the same, that each of them has a personality just as we do. What happens if some of them are good and some are not? Everything becomes that much more complicated, doesn't it?
I'm not going further into the plot because the synopsis and several other reviews already do that. I will say that this book made me think of our likely response,(as a nation), and what I came up with was not pretty. It gets exponentially worse when I think of our response as a WORLD, with all of our different governments, with great and petty leaders alike. I think Mr. Parent's take on all this was realistic and it caused me to think about all of these issues and more.
Even though this was mainly a science-fiction novel, it had elements of horror. It was also well written. A good story entertains, has complex characters and it makes you think. People of the Sun has all that and as such I recommend it!
*Thanks to the author for a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. This is it. Further, I consider this author to be a friend, but this did not affect the content of my review.*
March 18, 2017
4.5 stars!
PEOPLE OF THE SUN, by Jason Parent, is a novel that combines a bit of several genres: most notably, Science Fiction, Fantasy, Horror, and Thriller elements. This is--in my opinion--an emotionally potent novel, but one very "dark" in nature. An alien race known as the Symorians are preparing for a mission to save their own planet. A disastrous upset occurs, propelling their ship to a crash landing on Earth. The first humans to come in contact with them are a policeman and Connor--a good-hearted geologist, with a past that held a lot of personal sorrow. The Symorians are led by their commander, Lenyx, the only female on board--Tryst, the devious Kazi, and the good-natured Milliken.
One of the only humans whose motives for a peaceful union are pure, Connor, acts as a spokesperson for the alien race. Then, things begin to take off in a rapid series of occurrences--many unfortunately, unintended accidents due to the differences of the species.
"We came here in search of your people's help, but instead we are met with hostility and aggression . . . "
As the aliens begin to show more signs of "human" emotions, it begins to become increasingly clear that one member, Kazi, has far different opinions and desires regarding their stay on the planet.
". . . Kazi was turning out to be pure evil. Had he always been that way? Or had this planet made him into the monster he'd become?"
With things spiraling out of control, the Symorians begin to identify more and more with the human race: ". . . We've lost who we were. We aren't becoming like them. We already are like them."
The characterization of the aliens left nothing to be desired. These individuals become part of us, each one having identifying feelings and hopes that we "feel", ourselves. Some, like Kazi, we identify as: ". . . far more craven, devious, worse than human . . ." . Others, like Tryst, elicit our sympathies without hesitation. Many can empathize with her sorrow over the loss of her planet.
". . . How can I move on when there's nothing to move on to?"
This novel has quite a few unexpected surprises, and plenty of horrific moments as well. However, it was the reflection of our human nature and capacity for evil that truly spoke volumes. Despite this being a more science-fiction style of story, there is so much truth as to how our own species judges others, that it's difficult to say where the greater threat would be if this were a REAL occurrence.
"Even gods can fall."
The poignant emotions, action, and unrelenting tension make this an all-around great novel, spanning multiple genres. There is something that most everyone will be able to relate to here: ". . . hadn't known what it meant to be lonely. It left . . . hollow inside, an emptiness so bleak, . . . could no longer stand it."
Overall, I felt this novel touched on so many levels, that most every reader will find something that they will love in this story.
Highly recommended.
PEOPLE OF THE SUN, by Jason Parent, is a novel that combines a bit of several genres: most notably, Science Fiction, Fantasy, Horror, and Thriller elements. This is--in my opinion--an emotionally potent novel, but one very "dark" in nature. An alien race known as the Symorians are preparing for a mission to save their own planet. A disastrous upset occurs, propelling their ship to a crash landing on Earth. The first humans to come in contact with them are a policeman and Connor--a good-hearted geologist, with a past that held a lot of personal sorrow. The Symorians are led by their commander, Lenyx, the only female on board--Tryst, the devious Kazi, and the good-natured Milliken.
One of the only humans whose motives for a peaceful union are pure, Connor, acts as a spokesperson for the alien race. Then, things begin to take off in a rapid series of occurrences--many unfortunately, unintended accidents due to the differences of the species.
"We came here in search of your people's help, but instead we are met with hostility and aggression . . . "
As the aliens begin to show more signs of "human" emotions, it begins to become increasingly clear that one member, Kazi, has far different opinions and desires regarding their stay on the planet.
". . . Kazi was turning out to be pure evil. Had he always been that way? Or had this planet made him into the monster he'd become?"
With things spiraling out of control, the Symorians begin to identify more and more with the human race: ". . . We've lost who we were. We aren't becoming like them. We already are like them."
The characterization of the aliens left nothing to be desired. These individuals become part of us, each one having identifying feelings and hopes that we "feel", ourselves. Some, like Kazi, we identify as: ". . . far more craven, devious, worse than human . . ." . Others, like Tryst, elicit our sympathies without hesitation. Many can empathize with her sorrow over the loss of her planet.
". . . How can I move on when there's nothing to move on to?"
This novel has quite a few unexpected surprises, and plenty of horrific moments as well. However, it was the reflection of our human nature and capacity for evil that truly spoke volumes. Despite this being a more science-fiction style of story, there is so much truth as to how our own species judges others, that it's difficult to say where the greater threat would be if this were a REAL occurrence.
"Even gods can fall."
The poignant emotions, action, and unrelenting tension make this an all-around great novel, spanning multiple genres. There is something that most everyone will be able to relate to here: ". . . hadn't known what it meant to be lonely. It left . . . hollow inside, an emptiness so bleak, . . . could no longer stand it."
Overall, I felt this novel touched on so many levels, that most every reader will find something that they will love in this story.
Highly recommended.
March 3, 2017
Jason Parent has penned a thought-provoking, gripping scifi thriller. This isn't your grandma's alien invasion. My own world stopped the moment I stepped into People of the Sun. Lovers of science fiction, horror and even super heroes will revel in this rollercoaster of a tale. A true must-read
November 27, 2018
Since long I did not read a good Sci-Fi. What do we do if we meet some nasty powerful aliens? It's a gripping story.
Thanks to Netgalley and the Publisher for this copy.
Thanks to Netgalley and the Publisher for this copy.
July 4, 2017
2.5 stars
I was intrigued by the plot. Captivated enough to read the entire book.
But, honestly? It didn't flow well. Some of the characters changed their mind, and seemingly, their personality, from one sentence to the next. They went back and forth like this several times.
It's science fiction. It's a given that you have to suspend disbelief. It was hard to do with this story. Too many things conveniently fell into place without much struggle. It was hard to just "accept."
The ending is not a cliffhanger, but it does leave the story wide open to continue. There are several unanswered questions which I can only assume will be addressed in future installments.
Review ARC kindly provided by the publisher via NetGalley
I was intrigued by the plot. Captivated enough to read the entire book.
But, honestly? It didn't flow well. Some of the characters changed their mind, and seemingly, their personality, from one sentence to the next. They went back and forth like this several times.
It's science fiction. It's a given that you have to suspend disbelief. It was hard to do with this story. Too many things conveniently fell into place without much struggle. It was hard to just "accept."
The ending is not a cliffhanger, but it does leave the story wide open to continue. There are several unanswered questions which I can only assume will be addressed in future installments.
Review ARC kindly provided by the publisher via NetGalley
April 2, 2017
Ok…let's face it. I can't resist aliens, especially those who come to Earth for any other reasons than invasion. Not that I don't like the latter but they are far more common. So when I found this book, I had to get my hands on it. Already after the second chapter, I felt I knew Tryst, Kazy, Milliken and Lenyx. While I had an idea of their personality, I didn't foresee how the story would go. Many of the twists totally took me by surprise.
Characters wise, they were all well fleshed. My favorite ones were Milliken and Connor. Not that I didn’t like the others, mind you. Over all a great read that would certainly make a great movie.
I'd recommend to fans of science fiction involving aliens.
Characters wise, they were all well fleshed. My favorite ones were Milliken and Connor. Not that I didn’t like the others, mind you. Over all a great read that would certainly make a great movie.
I'd recommend to fans of science fiction involving aliens.
March 15, 2017
"If you like sci-fi, you need to read this. If you like horror, you need to read this. If you like dark fiction, you need to read this.
If you like a book that is superbly written in every single way, you need to read this."
See here for the full review:
People of the Sun
If you like a book that is superbly written in every single way, you need to read this."
See here for the full review:
People of the Sun
May 24, 2017
Review of PEOPLE OF THE SUN
by Jason Parent
Jason Parent has a vast imagination, demonstrated in everything he writes. In PEOPLE OF THE SUN he has given us a contemporary science fiction thriller demonstrating the fallibility of humans (as well as of “aliens.”) I couldn't help but be reminded of my beloved science fiction films of the 1950's, in which human narrowmindedness and inability to accept anything beyond received facts are thoroughly demonstrated.
PEOPLE OF THE SUN focuses on a virtually new concept in science fiction, as the reader will discover in perusing this thriller. “Alien” meets “human” and discovers shared background, while most of humanity (in authority) either wants to destroy, or at least sweep the “problem” away and out of sight.
Readers will come away from PEOPLE OF THE SUN with an intensified appreciation for “the other,” for scientific open-mindedness, and for the wonders of the universe. This novel is guaranteed to provoke thoughtfulness and contemplation.
by Jason Parent
Jason Parent has a vast imagination, demonstrated in everything he writes. In PEOPLE OF THE SUN he has given us a contemporary science fiction thriller demonstrating the fallibility of humans (as well as of “aliens.”) I couldn't help but be reminded of my beloved science fiction films of the 1950's, in which human narrowmindedness and inability to accept anything beyond received facts are thoroughly demonstrated.
PEOPLE OF THE SUN focuses on a virtually new concept in science fiction, as the reader will discover in perusing this thriller. “Alien” meets “human” and discovers shared background, while most of humanity (in authority) either wants to destroy, or at least sweep the “problem” away and out of sight.
Readers will come away from PEOPLE OF THE SUN with an intensified appreciation for “the other,” for scientific open-mindedness, and for the wonders of the universe. This novel is guaranteed to provoke thoughtfulness and contemplation.
April 19, 2017
Honestly, at first, I was not sure I would like this book because I am not big on Sci-fi. I don't mind it but some books, in my opinion go too far sometimes, these types of books can be really like or really not like most of the time for me. But I enjoyed this book very much! This book was full of twists and exciting turns that kept me wanting to read more. I like Aliens sometimes but this book made me like them a little more. The characters in this book were trying one civilization. It was an exciting book for me! * I received this from the author---this is my honest review*
June 19, 2017
Review @Elysian Fields
★ ★ ★ ★ ✬ 4.5 / 5 Stars
I was thoroughly impressed with this story! I'm not a huge fan of the whole alien invasion idea, but People of the Sun was original and refreshing. It started off like a much weirder episode of X-Files, with a police officer and a geologist hiking to a recently dried out lake bed, searching for the 'meteorite' that caused the evaporation of water. They come upon a large, black rock, which obviously isn't a rock at all. As they are examining this anomaly, they notice footprints leading from it into the woods. So they follow them. This decision changes the world forever.
Connor is our main protagonist. With a cushy job as a professor of geology, he is not ready for the strange events about to take place. He has no real friends, no family to take care of. So when he finds four aliens in the woods of New Hampshire, he offers to be an alien ambassador between them and his own government.
The four aliens come from the sun, which they call Symoria. It is a barren land with little food, so their council sends them on a mission to find resources. Upon take-off of their craft, their whole world explodes, killing all of their remaining species, save for them.
Tryst is the only female Symorian left. She is optimistic and strong, a wonderfully written female character. Kazi, on the other hand, is a total asshole and I knew it from his introduction. I hated him. He had no morals and a need for power that made me nauseous at times. His character was written so well; he was the perfect villain for this story and I wanted to throat punch him more times than I can recall.
Upon the alien's arrival on Earth, their ability to 'come in peace' is hampered by the fact that their touch incinerates humans. Water gives them incomprehensible powers, such as telepathy, telekinesis, and teleportation. There is no water on their home planet, so their evolution is almost instantaneous on Earth. Their skin is impenetrable, even in the face of machine guns and missiles. Their appearance poses another problem as they kind of look like very large bats.
I fell in love with the aliens, against my better judgement as a human! I rooted for them, against my own fellow man, and hoped that they would be left alone on Earth to rebuild all that they had lost. All in all, I really loved this story. It was hopeful and heartbreaking at the same time. Full of politics and the art of war, aliens and militant forces attempting to regain control of their constituents. I recommend this book to everyone who enjoys a good tale of betrayal and death, a fresh and original alien invasion story with wonderfully written characters! Thank you so much, Jason Parent, for the opportunity to see inside your mind and experience your worlds with you for a time. <3
★ ★ ★ ★ ✬ 4.5 / 5 Stars
I was thoroughly impressed with this story! I'm not a huge fan of the whole alien invasion idea, but People of the Sun was original and refreshing. It started off like a much weirder episode of X-Files, with a police officer and a geologist hiking to a recently dried out lake bed, searching for the 'meteorite' that caused the evaporation of water. They come upon a large, black rock, which obviously isn't a rock at all. As they are examining this anomaly, they notice footprints leading from it into the woods. So they follow them. This decision changes the world forever.
Connor is our main protagonist. With a cushy job as a professor of geology, he is not ready for the strange events about to take place. He has no real friends, no family to take care of. So when he finds four aliens in the woods of New Hampshire, he offers to be an alien ambassador between them and his own government.
The four aliens come from the sun, which they call Symoria. It is a barren land with little food, so their council sends them on a mission to find resources. Upon take-off of their craft, their whole world explodes, killing all of their remaining species, save for them.
'Look at that sky,' he said. 'Look at all this life around us. Listen, and you can hear creatures at work. It's so busy here, so alive. Our home is stagnant dirt and darkness, sullen and empty. Maybe Symoria died long ago, and we were just too stubborn to see it.'
Tryst is the only female Symorian left. She is optimistic and strong, a wonderfully written female character. Kazi, on the other hand, is a total asshole and I knew it from his introduction. I hated him. He had no morals and a need for power that made me nauseous at times. His character was written so well; he was the perfect villain for this story and I wanted to throat punch him more times than I can recall.
Upon the alien's arrival on Earth, their ability to 'come in peace' is hampered by the fact that their touch incinerates humans. Water gives them incomprehensible powers, such as telepathy, telekinesis, and teleportation. There is no water on their home planet, so their evolution is almost instantaneous on Earth. Their skin is impenetrable, even in the face of machine guns and missiles. Their appearance poses another problem as they kind of look like very large bats.
Tryst only smiled bigger, so big it covered half her face with four rows of double-pointed teeth, massive fangs retracted behind black gums. Her slim, sinewy lips, so colorless they were nearly transparent, curled beneath her bulbous pink globe eyes.I loved the descriptions of our government as well. It made me laugh with the sad reality that is our own ruling body. The fact that they would willingly start a war with a more powerful species because they are just that, a more powerful species spoke of the truth of humans. We are always scared of the unknown because we take little time to understand them and their ways of life. It is not our way, so it cannot be right.
Allison ran for office with a sincere desire to improve the country, but quickly found out hers was a rare trait for a politician. She had no disillusions about the flawed American political animal, controlled by old, fat elephants and heehawing asses. But Allison had underestimated the selfishness of most of her affiliates, regardless of their party designation.
I fell in love with the aliens, against my better judgement as a human! I rooted for them, against my own fellow man, and hoped that they would be left alone on Earth to rebuild all that they had lost. All in all, I really loved this story. It was hopeful and heartbreaking at the same time. Full of politics and the art of war, aliens and militant forces attempting to regain control of their constituents. I recommend this book to everyone who enjoys a good tale of betrayal and death, a fresh and original alien invasion story with wonderfully written characters! Thank you so much, Jason Parent, for the opportunity to see inside your mind and experience your worlds with you for a time. <3
June 20, 2017
I've been meaning to review this for a while, but time got away from me! So, as I'm going off my notes, I hope I can do justice to Jason Parent and People of the Sun. This Science Fiction adventure was a brilliant way for me to dip my toes back into this genre. It was imaginative, but also realistic enough to make stepping into it easy. I have to say, I was impressed with the solid way that Jason Parent writes. Having not read anything of his yet, this book has my interest peaked!
Basically, this book is the story of all of the disastrous occurrences that befall the poor Symorians who are featured here. From the moment that they leave their planet, nothing seems to go right. What I found most fascinating, was the difference in the ways that they interacted with the human race, once they arrived on Earth. We always like to peg aliens as either infinitely good, or infinitely evil. Parent shows that there are grey areas there. Survival instincts can overcome common sense sometimes, and that's an important distinction.
I think the toughest part of this book for me, honestly, was that there wasn't really anything remarkable about this story. It's solid, and the premise behind most of it is really well grounded. It's just not as exciting as I hoped it would be. I felt like I wanted to be more invested in the Symorians that I was, and that really hampered the effect that the ending would have had on me otherwise. It was a little disappointing, but nothing that kept me from finishing the story. I definitely still had to know how everything panned out.
All in all, People of the Sun is a solid and relatively entertaining way to spend a few hours. I'd recommend it to readers who, like me, are still feeling their way into the SF genre. It's easy to read, and will welcome you with open arms! Now, to go and find more Jason Parent books to read!
Basically, this book is the story of all of the disastrous occurrences that befall the poor Symorians who are featured here. From the moment that they leave their planet, nothing seems to go right. What I found most fascinating, was the difference in the ways that they interacted with the human race, once they arrived on Earth. We always like to peg aliens as either infinitely good, or infinitely evil. Parent shows that there are grey areas there. Survival instincts can overcome common sense sometimes, and that's an important distinction.
I think the toughest part of this book for me, honestly, was that there wasn't really anything remarkable about this story. It's solid, and the premise behind most of it is really well grounded. It's just not as exciting as I hoped it would be. I felt like I wanted to be more invested in the Symorians that I was, and that really hampered the effect that the ending would have had on me otherwise. It was a little disappointing, but nothing that kept me from finishing the story. I definitely still had to know how everything panned out.
All in all, People of the Sun is a solid and relatively entertaining way to spend a few hours. I'd recommend it to readers who, like me, are still feeling their way into the SF genre. It's easy to read, and will welcome you with open arms! Now, to go and find more Jason Parent books to read!
October 20, 2017
Jason Parent is one of those middle of the road authors who always seems to do ok or somewhat above that, but never really great. So I've come to rely on his books for quick relatively mindless entertainment, which seems to be an accurate and reasonable expectation. I do appreciate the man's range, he'll try any genre...scary, thriller and now this one, scifi. An intriguing enough premise with a middling execution, as the title suggests apparently there is a possibility of life on the Sun or, really, in the Sun, but now it's coming to an end and a small delegation of survivors crash lands on Earth and then we see how a place increasingly less welcoming to any sort of foreigners deals with the ultimate aliens or all, space aliens. What Parent did right with this story is present individual and drastically different mindsets and perspectives, sort of reduce the narrative into characters instead of sweeping (blanket) statements. Because, of course, that's what everyone so often forgets to do in fiction or real life...judging by generic characteristics and stereotypes instead of recognizing the individuals. So in that it was interesting to see how someone supercharged by our water (well, yeah, you'd be too, if you lived in the Sun) and essentially superpowered would fit in or attempt to stand out. It's the essential Superman dilemma...would he be happier as simply Clark Kent? Does he have a responsibility to use his powers for greater good? Does he have the right to just be a private citizen and live a normal life? And I'm digressing wildly...where were we...oh yes, basically this just isn't as good of a story as the Superman's. Which is, of course, a totally unfair standard. It's a decent story, but something's lacking, not as engaging as it ought to be, the dynamics are off. It maintains the attention and reads quite quickly, but leaves something to be desired. Not even sure if it was trying to be a metaphor for immigration ( I do love me a good morality laden scifi with sociopolitical connotations) or meant to be taken at face value as a sort of Scifi (Syfy) tv movie of the week. But there it is, entertaining enough. Thanks Netgalley.
May 20, 2017
Another excellent book by Jason Parent. It's quick read with a great storyline, I liked the characters and would have enjoyed a little more character development but overall a great book!
July 12, 2021
I received a free copy via Netgalley in exchange for a honest review.
This is a high quality science fiction story.
You have aliens who then obtain super powers.
A fight between good and bad, what more could you ask for ?
I forgot to add in the reaction of ourselves finding we are not alone.
This is a high quality science fiction story.
You have aliens who then obtain super powers.
A fight between good and bad, what more could you ask for ?
I forgot to add in the reaction of ourselves finding we are not alone.
March 22, 2017
I'm not even one who is that into sci fi books but I very much enjoyed this one. It's very fast paced and you fall in love (and hate) with the characters right away. Very highly recommended!!
July 17, 2017
I won this book in a giveaway and I'm so glad I did,because otherwise I might have never had a chance to read it and enjoy it. While I felt disgusted by certain aliens thoughts,I enjoyed everything other than that. Aliens aren't very different from us,they are stronger and can teleport and stuff,but they feel like us,they love like we do and they can be rotten to the core just like some of the human beings that have existed through history or are alive now and shaping our lives and future. Also,the president,that was so good(at least for a while). And the ending! I finished reading the book,but the story doesn't end there,it left me wanting to know more,although I'm still happy the way it was finished.
August 11, 2017
On a mission to save their race from extinction, four aliens leave their home for the first time. Unfortunately for them, they end up on Earth. Facing problem after problem, we follow these characters on their adventure in a hostile world. Although the aliens are in awe of our beautiful planet, they’re bemused and soon disgusted as they begin to learn more about the human race.
I really enjoyed this book and it was never a chore to read. It’s dark, but not miserable; it has some horror elements, but it’s fun and uplifting. Although humans are portrayed in a less than favourable light in this story, the best character is a kind-hearted Earth-dweller named Connor. Likewise, although the alien race have evolved to become non-violent beings, one of the four, Kazi, starts to become power-crazed and dangerous as he absorbs the knowledge of thousands of humans.
And so, Connor slowly becomes far more compassionate than most of his race are capable of, and Kazi rapidly becomes the first of his race (in memory) to show truly hateful behaviour. How will the other aliens and humans react?
Early in the story, the aliens also have to come to terms with the likelihood that their planet and race no longer exist. The book is easily comparable to real-life situations of displacement and emigration. More importantly, it raises mirrors and questions how various societies welcome these individuals.
People of the Sun is an intelligent, exciting science fiction thriller. The story is never predictable, nor does it jump to unbelievable twists. It’s wonderful to read a book in this genre that doesn’t feel like a cheap rip-off of any sci-fi classic (at least, not one that I’ve read!). I definitely recommend giving this a read.
I look forward to reading more by this civil litigator turned sci-fi author!
People of the Sun is published by Sinister Grin Press and is available in paperback and for Kindle. The publishers sent me a copy of the book in exchange for a 100% honest review.
I really enjoyed this book and it was never a chore to read. It’s dark, but not miserable; it has some horror elements, but it’s fun and uplifting. Although humans are portrayed in a less than favourable light in this story, the best character is a kind-hearted Earth-dweller named Connor. Likewise, although the alien race have evolved to become non-violent beings, one of the four, Kazi, starts to become power-crazed and dangerous as he absorbs the knowledge of thousands of humans.
And so, Connor slowly becomes far more compassionate than most of his race are capable of, and Kazi rapidly becomes the first of his race (in memory) to show truly hateful behaviour. How will the other aliens and humans react?
Early in the story, the aliens also have to come to terms with the likelihood that their planet and race no longer exist. The book is easily comparable to real-life situations of displacement and emigration. More importantly, it raises mirrors and questions how various societies welcome these individuals.
People of the Sun is an intelligent, exciting science fiction thriller. The story is never predictable, nor does it jump to unbelievable twists. It’s wonderful to read a book in this genre that doesn’t feel like a cheap rip-off of any sci-fi classic (at least, not one that I’ve read!). I definitely recommend giving this a read.
I look forward to reading more by this civil litigator turned sci-fi author!
People of the Sun is published by Sinister Grin Press and is available in paperback and for Kindle. The publishers sent me a copy of the book in exchange for a 100% honest review.
April 30, 2017
"People of the Sun" is good, emotionally gripping stuff. It's also about aliens who have superpowers. Those two things are usually mutually exclusive.
This one has good guys and bad guys and fighting, but the emotional guts of the characters are the real drivers of the story.
The story is dramatic, but not bleak. Rotten things happen, but the tone of this whole thing is hopeful. Writer Jason Parent, from the beginning of the book, appeared to be setting up the kind of story that could maintain a 25-book series, then he upended my expectations.
To be clear: I like when stories don't go the way I think they're going to go.
My favorite quote:
"Our first encounter with the humans didn't exactly go according to interplanetary travel procedures."
This one has good guys and bad guys and fighting, but the emotional guts of the characters are the real drivers of the story.
The story is dramatic, but not bleak. Rotten things happen, but the tone of this whole thing is hopeful. Writer Jason Parent, from the beginning of the book, appeared to be setting up the kind of story that could maintain a 25-book series, then he upended my expectations.
To be clear: I like when stories don't go the way I think they're going to go.
My favorite quote:
"Our first encounter with the humans didn't exactly go according to interplanetary travel procedures."
May 7, 2017
The Symorians are an alien race whose home planet is inside the core of the sun. Four Symorians: Lenyx, Tryst, Kazi, and Milliken embark on a mission to save their people from extinction. It doesn't take long before their vessel crash-lands on the planet Earth. Afterward, their troubles are just beginning. The Symorians get off on the wrong foot with the humans after accidentally killing one. Then they attempt to bridge an alliance between Symoria and Earth, but after another incident occurs, our alien friends have to fight for their survival.
I loved this story. It was the perfect blend of mystery, action, and sci-fi. The characters were believable, the plot line engrossing and every turn I took, there was a new twist, many of which put me on the edge of my seat. I couldn't get enough and once I've finished reading, I wished I'd taken my time. People of the Sun would definitely be one of the few books I wouldn't mind re-reading.
Let's get off topic for one brief second. For Star Trek fans (like myself), you know how viewers say the undertone meanings of the episodes mirror real life? For example, in the episode, "Let That Be Your Last Battlefield," there are two separate alien races, one has white on the left side and black on the right side, while the other race has the same colors vice versa. They're killing each other even though they are exactly the same. They're judgmental. Now, back to People of the Sun, Jason Parent does the same thing. He cleverly shines the light on mankind's weaknesses. Humans tend to judge others by the color of their skins, by the mistakes we've made, by the class we were raised from, etc. Reading this story makes you think about what you do, what you say and how you react to certain circumstances.
People of the Sun isn't just a science fiction novel. It's not just a horror book. It's also filled with plenty of action, adventure, and thought-provoking situations. It's a very well-written novel, deserving of praise. In my opinion, I think just about anyone would enjoy this book. With the exception of Star Trek, I'm not a major fan of aliens. But I love the Symorians!
For more book reviews, visit: https://angelakaysbooks.com/book-revi...
I loved this story. It was the perfect blend of mystery, action, and sci-fi. The characters were believable, the plot line engrossing and every turn I took, there was a new twist, many of which put me on the edge of my seat. I couldn't get enough and once I've finished reading, I wished I'd taken my time. People of the Sun would definitely be one of the few books I wouldn't mind re-reading.
Let's get off topic for one brief second. For Star Trek fans (like myself), you know how viewers say the undertone meanings of the episodes mirror real life? For example, in the episode, "Let That Be Your Last Battlefield," there are two separate alien races, one has white on the left side and black on the right side, while the other race has the same colors vice versa. They're killing each other even though they are exactly the same. They're judgmental. Now, back to People of the Sun, Jason Parent does the same thing. He cleverly shines the light on mankind's weaknesses. Humans tend to judge others by the color of their skins, by the mistakes we've made, by the class we were raised from, etc. Reading this story makes you think about what you do, what you say and how you react to certain circumstances.
People of the Sun isn't just a science fiction novel. It's not just a horror book. It's also filled with plenty of action, adventure, and thought-provoking situations. It's a very well-written novel, deserving of praise. In my opinion, I think just about anyone would enjoy this book. With the exception of Star Trek, I'm not a major fan of aliens. But I love the Symorians!
For more book reviews, visit: https://angelakaysbooks.com/book-revi...
May 2, 2017
This book was like a fine blended scotch. There are hints here and there of vague familiar flavors but it is in itself something quite unique and different.
I would pour another glass.
I would pour another glass.
May 6, 2017
Where to start? I have had the good luck to have discovered Jason Parent when his first book What Hides Within came out in 2012. From the start I knew he was going places. Over the course of these last five years, I have seen him grow as writer. Jason is one of those very talented authors that is not confined to one genre. With With Hides Within, he wrote a a very dark horror novel that scared the shit out of me. With Seeing Evil, he switched it up and wrote a psychological thriller with a twist that has become one of my all time favorite books. Now with People of the Sun he has done it again and has written an amazing science fiction masterpiece. I LOVED THIS BOOK! People of the Sun is the story of four people that leave their dying planet in search of a way to save civilization. Due to an accident they crash land on earth. Once here the must overcome obstacle after obstacle to find the help they need and try to save their species. I can not say enough good things about Jason and his writing. For me a true testement to how much I love an authors is that I have all their books in Ebook, paperback and audio. Jason Parent is one of a very small group that fits this bill. If you have not read Jason Parent, do yourself a huge favor and induldge. You will not be sorry.
May 17, 2017
This originally appeared at The Irresponsible Reader.
---
This was a refreshing SF adventure with plenty of heart and imagination.
A handful of brave astronauts take off from the dying planet Symoria with a mission to find something to save their planet-- but something goes wrong during the launch, damaging the ship and severely injuring some of the crew. The ship crashes on a nearby planet -- Earth, naturally -- and things go downhill from there.
Yeah, a disastrous (and possibly fatal) launch is the best thing that happens to the Symorians. Doesn't really say a whole lot about this planet, or at least its inhabitants, does it?
Anyway, they land in New Hampshire to be found by a State Trooper and his friend, a geology professor. Factors in the environment shock the Symorians by helping them to adapt to Earth and human culture in surprising ways. The professor, Connor Gaudreau (the professor) becomes an ambassador of sorts for them.
To say that their first meeting with the U. S. Military goes poorly is an understatement -- the soldiers believe that the Symorians are nerds in cosplay uniforms and makeup. When they won't take off "the Spock ears," one solider in particular gets aggressive -- striking the non aggressive Symorian commander, Lenyx, repeatedly. While trying to defend himself, Lenyx accidentally kills this soldier, making things worse.
Thankfully, there's a sitting President who's looking to establish her legacy by making a treaty with a new race. What follows is full of betrayal hope, loyalty and avarice. Plus a healthy dose of hope.
The imagination behind this novel is impressive. Parent shows a lot of creativity in establishing why the aliens might use English expressions and human attitudes. The writing is solid -- nothing dazzling, but solid. The characters are well-written, and the plot works well. Yeah, at a certain point, the ending is inevitable and few readers will be surprised at the last 1/3 (or so). But that doesn't mean it's bad, it just means that Parent follows his story through to its logical conclusion -- he doesn't go for some shock twist that has no foundation. He starts at A, then goes to B, C and D on his way to E -- without succumbing to the temptation to go for a detour through Q and R.
An entertaining, quick read with plenty of characters that make you want to read on. Recommended.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this novel from the author in exchange for this post -- thanks!
---
This was a refreshing SF adventure with plenty of heart and imagination.
A handful of brave astronauts take off from the dying planet Symoria with a mission to find something to save their planet-- but something goes wrong during the launch, damaging the ship and severely injuring some of the crew. The ship crashes on a nearby planet -- Earth, naturally -- and things go downhill from there.
Yeah, a disastrous (and possibly fatal) launch is the best thing that happens to the Symorians. Doesn't really say a whole lot about this planet, or at least its inhabitants, does it?
Anyway, they land in New Hampshire to be found by a State Trooper and his friend, a geology professor. Factors in the environment shock the Symorians by helping them to adapt to Earth and human culture in surprising ways. The professor, Connor Gaudreau (the professor) becomes an ambassador of sorts for them.
To say that their first meeting with the U. S. Military goes poorly is an understatement -- the soldiers believe that the Symorians are nerds in cosplay uniforms and makeup. When they won't take off "the Spock ears," one solider in particular gets aggressive -- striking the non aggressive Symorian commander, Lenyx, repeatedly. While trying to defend himself, Lenyx accidentally kills this soldier, making things worse.
Thankfully, there's a sitting President who's looking to establish her legacy by making a treaty with a new race. What follows is full of betrayal hope, loyalty and avarice. Plus a healthy dose of hope.
The imagination behind this novel is impressive. Parent shows a lot of creativity in establishing why the aliens might use English expressions and human attitudes. The writing is solid -- nothing dazzling, but solid. The characters are well-written, and the plot works well. Yeah, at a certain point, the ending is inevitable and few readers will be surprised at the last 1/3 (or so). But that doesn't mean it's bad, it just means that Parent follows his story through to its logical conclusion -- he doesn't go for some shock twist that has no foundation. He starts at A, then goes to B, C and D on his way to E -- without succumbing to the temptation to go for a detour through Q and R.
An entertaining, quick read with plenty of characters that make you want to read on. Recommended.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this novel from the author in exchange for this post -- thanks!
January 16, 2018
FIRST CONTACT👾A Little ☔Rain Never Hurt Anyone!
Connor👨 is the ultimate anti hero. He's a fifty-four year old man, a college professor, a geology major. The local sheriff, Matthew👮, leads him to a local lake, Second Connecticut Lake, which has apparently dried up overnight. Mathew wants to show him a rock.
Tremendous heat and an impenetrable fog envelopes them as they trudge towards the source of the disaster. In the middle of the now dry lake bed is a huge lump of stone.
The two men soon decipher that it's some sort of UFO🚀! They they find tracks👣 leading away from the still burning 🔥hot giant meteorite like vessel🚀.
The tracks👣 are from the aliens🐺 that were in the UFO🚀. They landed on 🌎Earth by accident, their metabolism is contrary to earth inhabitants water based forms. Their home is the center of the 🌞sun, which they call Symoria.
Mathew👮 and Connor👨 catch up to the four aliens, the only female, Tryst, Lenyx, the leader, Kazi, and Milliken. They are huge,🐺 about right feet tall with pale white skin, snouts and huge fangs like wild boars.
Mathew👮 is accidentally killed by Lenyx🐺, when Lenyx touches him while trying to restrain him. Mathew literally burns 🔥 up! The aliens👾 are off to a bad start. They talk it over and decide they should kill Connor👨 too.
One of the aliens, Milliken🐺, was badly injured and died soon after they went into the woods. But when Tryst🐺 accidentally spills water on him, he is miraculously healed. What is even more amazing is He suddenly knows everything about his crew🐺 mates and Connor👨, too. He sees into their minds. He wants the other three of his crew mates to get in the nearby water, too.
Milliken🐺 starts talking to Connor👨 because he knows his language now, too. They will need a liaison, they can't kill him now!
ARC Received for a Voluntary and Honest Review.
This is a very interesting book, because it involves Aliens👾 landing on 🌎Earth, instead of humans landing on an alien planet or encountering them in space. The book is very well written and is written for adult readers.
Connor👨 is the ultimate anti hero. He's a fifty-four year old man, a college professor, a geology major. The local sheriff, Matthew👮, leads him to a local lake, Second Connecticut Lake, which has apparently dried up overnight. Mathew wants to show him a rock.
Tremendous heat and an impenetrable fog envelopes them as they trudge towards the source of the disaster. In the middle of the now dry lake bed is a huge lump of stone.
The two men soon decipher that it's some sort of UFO🚀! They they find tracks👣 leading away from the still burning 🔥hot giant meteorite like vessel🚀.
The tracks👣 are from the aliens🐺 that were in the UFO🚀. They landed on 🌎Earth by accident, their metabolism is contrary to earth inhabitants water based forms. Their home is the center of the 🌞sun, which they call Symoria.
Mathew👮 and Connor👨 catch up to the four aliens, the only female, Tryst, Lenyx, the leader, Kazi, and Milliken. They are huge,🐺 about right feet tall with pale white skin, snouts and huge fangs like wild boars.
Mathew👮 is accidentally killed by Lenyx🐺, when Lenyx touches him while trying to restrain him. Mathew literally burns 🔥 up! The aliens👾 are off to a bad start. They talk it over and decide they should kill Connor👨 too.
One of the aliens, Milliken🐺, was badly injured and died soon after they went into the woods. But when Tryst🐺 accidentally spills water on him, he is miraculously healed. What is even more amazing is He suddenly knows everything about his crew🐺 mates and Connor👨, too. He sees into their minds. He wants the other three of his crew mates to get in the nearby water, too.
Milliken🐺 starts talking to Connor👨 because he knows his language now, too. They will need a liaison, they can't kill him now!
ARC Received for a Voluntary and Honest Review.
This is a very interesting book, because it involves Aliens👾 landing on 🌎Earth, instead of humans landing on an alien planet or encountering them in space. The book is very well written and is written for adult readers.
February 3, 2018
A small group of aliens blast off from their dying world(the center of the sun) and crash land on earth where they discover water enhances their bodies.....sounds a bit like the Superman story doesn't it? The typical problems of first contact, language, culture, history are handled again by exposure to water, in this case they acquire the ability to read humans minds and incorporate all the feelings, memories and experiences into a new understanding of human society and nature.
There are some interesting looks at the dynamics of the small group as the aliens take different approaches to the dramatic changes in their lives. Of course there are the usual concerns of attributing human characteristics to an alien lifeform but there are some hints at a possible reason for this in the ancient past.
Solid writing and an interesting twist at the end made for an entertaining read.
6/10
There are some interesting looks at the dynamics of the small group as the aliens take different approaches to the dramatic changes in their lives. Of course there are the usual concerns of attributing human characteristics to an alien lifeform but there are some hints at a possible reason for this in the ancient past.
Solid writing and an interesting twist at the end made for an entertaining read.
6/10
July 4, 2022
The last heirs of an alien people living in the depths of the Sun set off on a desperate mission in search of a new world to live on. Of course they end up on Earth, on US soil, and have, so to speak, immigration problems. Except that, water has a strange effect on their bodies, making them virtually indestructible, and also on their minds, especially that of the least well-balanced among them. The narrative proceeds somewhat by stereotypes, both in terms of the aliens' and the Earthlings' behaviour, with the expected conclusion of an alien seed firmly planted on Earth, hinting at future developments. A decent sci-fi novel, but nothing more.
March 9, 2018
What a different sci-fi book this was by Jason Parent, and I mean that in a good way. I enjoyed how it tried to avoid the usual cliches and stereotypes about alien life and what they might look like to us mere earthlings. I was also very pleasantly surprised by the ending of the book which I absolutely will not disclose. This was a joy to read from the first page to the last words on the last page. This is a rather late voluntary review of an Advanced Reader Copy of the book from Hidden Gems
January 21, 2018
This is the second book I've read by Jason Parent and I was just as consumed by this story as I was with his previous crime novel. I loved that the story changed viewpoints so you could really get into the minds of the characters. I normally don't read a lot of Science Fiction but will read anything Jason writes from here on out. Loved the character development and was completely engrossed, completing this in 2 sittings.
*I received an ARC from the author in exchange for my honest opinions.
*I received an ARC from the author in exchange for my honest opinions.
September 18, 2017
Seriously, I was captivated from the start to the finish. I am particularly intrigued by the moral questions raised in the story. I'm still thinking about the characters. They have stayed with me beyond the final pages of the novel.
September 26, 2018
Probably worth more stars to other readers but I thought the story was contrived and predictable. I didn't like the science (or lack of it) or the characters. More fantasy than SciFi I feel. Well written with some interesting ideas but not it did not grip my imagination.
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