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Alien People
A message from across the galaxy. A journey to a distant world. Will first contact bring new understanding… or death?
Calandra Menankar dreams of becoming her planet’s top astronomer. So when a probe from a place called Earth rockets into her solar system, she’s determined to uncover its secrets. And when the foreign craft transmits a message of peace, Calandra secures permission to voyage to the unknown orb despite brittle bones that could make space travel fatal.
Teaming up with her boyfriend pilot, Xttra Oogan, the two cross the stars towards the mysterious blue-green globe unaware one of their crew hides a sinister agenda. And when they translate the Earthian communications, Calandra and Xttra fear the probe may have led them into a deathtrap far from home…
Will traversing the Milky Way to a dangerous, new planet make both explorers wish they never left home?
Alien People is a thrilling and captivating science-fiction novel from bestselling author John Coon. If you like nail-biting action, high adventure, and ambitious characters, then you’ll love this immersive tale set in the same fictional universe as Under a Fallen Sun.
Calandra Menankar dreams of becoming her planet’s top astronomer. So when a probe from a place called Earth rockets into her solar system, she’s determined to uncover its secrets. And when the foreign craft transmits a message of peace, Calandra secures permission to voyage to the unknown orb despite brittle bones that could make space travel fatal.
Teaming up with her boyfriend pilot, Xttra Oogan, the two cross the stars towards the mysterious blue-green globe unaware one of their crew hides a sinister agenda. And when they translate the Earthian communications, Calandra and Xttra fear the probe may have led them into a deathtrap far from home…
Will traversing the Milky Way to a dangerous, new planet make both explorers wish they never left home?
Alien People is a thrilling and captivating science-fiction novel from bestselling author John Coon. If you like nail-biting action, high adventure, and ambitious characters, then you’ll love this immersive tale set in the same fictional universe as Under a Fallen Sun.
- GenresScience Fiction
344 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 1, 2020
168 people are currently reading
84 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
September 16, 2022
This was a very enjoyable, good read that kept my interest. To be honest, I can see this being made into a streaming mini series on a cable or satellite channel.
December 18, 2023
Interesting
An encounter with aliens from the aliens viewpoint that brings home the reality of what a aggressive race we are. Very realistic.
An encounter with aliens from the aliens viewpoint that brings home the reality of what a aggressive race we are. Very realistic.
September 22, 2020
I didn't get what I was expecting to with Alien People, but I suppose that's mostly my fault. When presented with the concept of aliens recovering the Voyager probe (or the equivalent), tracking it back, and visiting Earth, I had expected a sci-fi exploration of human society and how it's viewed from an outside perspective as aliens move among us undetected. Perhaps with some resolution as they discuss the greater mysteries of the universe with Earth's scientific elite.
Unfortunately, Alien People is not that as the main characters (outside a trip to a tailgate party) are almost immediately embroiled by the U.S. military. From there on it becomes a fairly by-the-numbers military action thriller.
Now that's not necessarily a bad thing, but Coon's writing style often bogs down the often by - at best - being too descriptive and - at worst - doing a lot of telling instead of showing. The characters fall especially victim to this and feel fairly flat. I couldn't really gain a real feel for their personalities aside from when the narration tells me how they're feeling. Characters make plot-convenient decisions and flit in and out of the narrative as needed, which calls into question whether they're needed at all.
All that being said, Coon has created a very interesting world with Alien People, but - and this is on me - I had expected more of a deeper, more existential approach. But if you're in the mood for a sci-fi thriller, Alien People sure fits the bill.
Unfortunately, Alien People is not that as the main characters (outside a trip to a tailgate party) are almost immediately embroiled by the U.S. military. From there on it becomes a fairly by-the-numbers military action thriller.
Now that's not necessarily a bad thing, but Coon's writing style often bogs down the often by - at best - being too descriptive and - at worst - doing a lot of telling instead of showing. The characters fall especially victim to this and feel fairly flat. I couldn't really gain a real feel for their personalities aside from when the narration tells me how they're feeling. Characters make plot-convenient decisions and flit in and out of the narrative as needed, which calls into question whether they're needed at all.
All that being said, Coon has created a very interesting world with Alien People, but - and this is on me - I had expected more of a deeper, more existential approach. But if you're in the mood for a sci-fi thriller, Alien People sure fits the bill.
December 30, 2020
Not such a common sci-fi theme. It was turned around, Aliens coming to Earth after finding a probe entered their space. Translating their message of peace, they decided to find it to make contact with the Earthians. But what they find landing on Earth, was not peace, more a death-trap. With the help of some of the Earthians, understanding why they came to Earth, they finally, with losing most of their crew members, make it back to their spaceship.
"We will be home and safe from this awful place." "Never had the thought of going home felt so sweet before this moment."
It's a thrilling and captivating story, i hardly could put it down.
"We will be home and safe from this awful place." "Never had the thought of going home felt so sweet before this moment."
It's a thrilling and captivating story, i hardly could put it down.
September 20, 2022
Very disappointing
This is possibly written for children. I did not finish the book. It was silly and a complete waste of my time. I have NEVER written a bad review like this before!!!
This is possibly written for children. I did not finish the book. It was silly and a complete waste of my time. I have NEVER written a bad review like this before!!!
October 2, 2022
A Different Prrspective
What happens when aliens come visiting Earth after finding a probe in space inviting friendship and peace? This is an all too believable tale.
What happens when aliens come visiting Earth after finding a probe in space inviting friendship and peace? This is an all too believable tale.
October 10, 2022
I enjoyed this book. Perfect blend of sci-fi adventure and suspense. Such an original concept, having a first contact story on Earth from the alien perspective. Loved the detailed world-building and the dynamic characters. It felt like watching a movie as much as reading a book. Definitely recommend this one.
October 2, 2020
I received a free copy from StoryOrigin in exchange for a review.
Lets see....
POV from aliens? Check
Humans acting like the dumb animals we are? Check
Lots of action? Check
Lastly...... No cliffhanger ending (even though its part of a series??)? CHECK!
This book was almost exactly what I was hoping it was, a view of us humans from the eyes of someone not accustomed to our lives- and boy do we do weird things! The only reason it did not get all 5 stars is because I never really felt a connection with the characters, they were just ….flat in my opinion. but its still a great read and I would recommend it to anyone who is interested in sci-fi or how an alien would view us
Lets see....
POV from aliens? Check
Humans acting like the dumb animals we are? Check
Lots of action? Check
Lastly...... No cliffhanger ending (even though its part of a series??)? CHECK!
This book was almost exactly what I was hoping it was, a view of us humans from the eyes of someone not accustomed to our lives- and boy do we do weird things! The only reason it did not get all 5 stars is because I never really felt a connection with the characters, they were just ….flat in my opinion. but its still a great read and I would recommend it to anyone who is interested in sci-fi or how an alien would view us
September 14, 2021
Science Fiction - An Original New Classic- the alien's perspective - visitors from another galaxy come to earth seemingly at the invitation of a probe found in space. Excited to explore they end up finding that some earthians like some of their own - are the dangerous aliens. You'll be immersed until someone reaches safety.
December 17, 2020
Book Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3.5 / 5 stars)
How many of us have looked to the sky, wondering if someone else is looking back? Do they wonder the same things? Do they care? Calandra Menankar of Lathos has wondered this as well, and as one of the planet’s top astronomers she is delighted when she discovers a probe from a place called Earth in her solar system. Determined to make contact after reviewing the peaceful message inscribed on the probe, she ventures off to Earth with her boyfriend and pilot, Xttra, as well as Lance, Doni, and a few others. But when they arrive, this blue-and-green planet isn’t as welcoming as it appears.
In a sci-fi thriller filled with action, we are once again faced with our own morality: is Earth prepared to face the stars? The answers presented by Alien People is this: no. We’re too embroiled in war, too overwhelmed by fear, and too locked into our own beliefs. Earth is placed as a foe, seen through the eyes of the peaceful aliens who arrived, enamored with warfare and hatred, not peace. But Calandra is determined to see the good in humanity; and perhaps, having someone like that on the crew is key to their survival.
The story is paced like a classic sci-fi thriller movie. So much happens over the novel, but enough where we get a feeling for Calandra, Xttra, and Lance. Some of the characters do fall to the side, but this is reminiscent of any good action-packed movie or novel. The whole time I was on the edge of my seat, wondering if the aliens would survive, or if they would make peace with the “Earthians”.
And let me say, I was glad that the ending was not stereotypical.
Yet, while I know this is the first book of a series, I felt like there were a lot of loose remained in the air. What was the significance of their colleague who was injured and put into stasis? Why mention Calandra’s weak bones when they didn’t come up often? Shouldn’t her broken arm been more detrimental? Why did Calandra and Xttra jump head first into a stadium and ask about probe builders? Surely they would have researched more from afar or have a stronger protocol? (Which was actually a question the military operation on Earth asked as well.) And finally, what was Doni’s actual motivation? Sure, these are all questions building up to something greater, but I ended the book wondering about all of these…and more.
But perhaps that is just a ploy to get me to read the next one…which I intend to do.
Still, if you want a book that transports you to a theater, where you can pretend you’re watching a high-stakes, action packed sci-fi thriller, Alien People is definitely worth the read.
Note: I received a copy of this book at no cost in exchange for my honest review.
How many of us have looked to the sky, wondering if someone else is looking back? Do they wonder the same things? Do they care? Calandra Menankar of Lathos has wondered this as well, and as one of the planet’s top astronomers she is delighted when she discovers a probe from a place called Earth in her solar system. Determined to make contact after reviewing the peaceful message inscribed on the probe, she ventures off to Earth with her boyfriend and pilot, Xttra, as well as Lance, Doni, and a few others. But when they arrive, this blue-and-green planet isn’t as welcoming as it appears.
In a sci-fi thriller filled with action, we are once again faced with our own morality: is Earth prepared to face the stars? The answers presented by Alien People is this: no. We’re too embroiled in war, too overwhelmed by fear, and too locked into our own beliefs. Earth is placed as a foe, seen through the eyes of the peaceful aliens who arrived, enamored with warfare and hatred, not peace. But Calandra is determined to see the good in humanity; and perhaps, having someone like that on the crew is key to their survival.
The story is paced like a classic sci-fi thriller movie. So much happens over the novel, but enough where we get a feeling for Calandra, Xttra, and Lance. Some of the characters do fall to the side, but this is reminiscent of any good action-packed movie or novel. The whole time I was on the edge of my seat, wondering if the aliens would survive, or if they would make peace with the “Earthians”.
And let me say, I was glad that the ending was not stereotypical.
Yet, while I know this is the first book of a series, I felt like there were a lot of loose remained in the air. What was the significance of their colleague who was injured and put into stasis? Why mention Calandra’s weak bones when they didn’t come up often? Shouldn’t her broken arm been more detrimental? Why did Calandra and Xttra jump head first into a stadium and ask about probe builders? Surely they would have researched more from afar or have a stronger protocol? (Which was actually a question the military operation on Earth asked as well.) And finally, what was Doni’s actual motivation? Sure, these are all questions building up to something greater, but I ended the book wondering about all of these…and more.
But perhaps that is just a ploy to get me to read the next one…which I intend to do.
Still, if you want a book that transports you to a theater, where you can pretend you’re watching a high-stakes, action packed sci-fi thriller, Alien People is definitely worth the read.
Note: I received a copy of this book at no cost in exchange for my honest review.
September 20, 2020
Alien astronomers intercept a Voyager-like probe several parsecs away from Earth, and launch a mission to make first contact with what they believe is a peaceful civilization.
Earth, or at least the part they land in, is *not* a peaceful civilization. Things start going wrong, and therein lies the plot.
Overall, "Alien People" appeals to fans of sci-fi pulp adventure -- it's heavy on "how will the protagonists get out of this one?" and a little light on "why do the aliens look so much like humans that they can pass for them?" But the protagonists don't have much time to ask questions with the humans breathing down their necks, so that gets a pass in my book. Also, this story gets a bonus star for not having a cliffhanger ending despite being part of a series, so... kudos!
Earth, or at least the part they land in, is *not* a peaceful civilization. Things start going wrong, and therein lies the plot.
Overall, "Alien People" appeals to fans of sci-fi pulp adventure -- it's heavy on "how will the protagonists get out of this one?" and a little light on "why do the aliens look so much like humans that they can pass for them?" But the protagonists don't have much time to ask questions with the humans breathing down their necks, so that gets a pass in my book. Also, this story gets a bonus star for not having a cliffhanger ending despite being part of a series, so... kudos!
September 27, 2020
The discovery of alien life! What could be more exciting? Only that such life is both Sentient and communicating! For Astronomer Calandra, this discovery of hers reaches beyond her wildest dreams. Even more astonishing is that Calandra and her colleagues reside on the planet Lathos, in a different solar system...and that the alien probe sets forth from a very aggressive, cruel, global government...on Planet Earth....
I was reminded pleasurably of early Twilight Zone episodes and of Golden Age Science Fiction as author John Coon capably flips the Alien trope on its head, reversing the kaleidoscope so that Earth is the destructive alien civilization. Delightful!
I was reminded pleasurably of early Twilight Zone episodes and of Golden Age Science Fiction as author John Coon capably flips the Alien trope on its head, reversing the kaleidoscope so that Earth is the destructive alien civilization. Delightful!
January 18, 2021
What are these humans doing?
This is a sci-fi story featuring alien invasion. A message from across the galaxy. A journey to a distant world. Will first contact bring new understanding… or death? It’s not a unique story as first contact has been explored many times, but behind the theme there is an intriguing and compelling story with bouts of action & adventure that kept my interest. The characters are believable and fit well into the world created by the author, and their development during the story is well thought out. Descriptions are good and I had no problem imagining the scenes created.
This is a sci-fi story featuring alien invasion. A message from across the galaxy. A journey to a distant world. Will first contact bring new understanding… or death? It’s not a unique story as first contact has been explored many times, but behind the theme there is an intriguing and compelling story with bouts of action & adventure that kept my interest. The characters are believable and fit well into the world created by the author, and their development during the story is well thought out. Descriptions are good and I had no problem imagining the scenes created.
September 13, 2020
Ever wonder what it might be like to have visitors from another planet? Ones that are just here exploring? Aliens who just want to know what else is out there? Have you ever wondered what else is out there? Well John Coon gives us one example of what it might be like. This was an interesting take on what Aliens might think of us based upon what we do in our everyday lives. The some times strange things we do. I have not read anything from this author before but will happily read more.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 27, 2020
Thoughtful and intriguing story of a clash of civilisations when a probe from an unknown planet (Earth) is spotted, and Calandra and Xttra voyage to Earth to discover its secrets. But there is a traitor in their midst with a different agenda. A clash of humans and humanoids where motives can be worthy or selfishly perverse on both sides. The main emphasis in the narrative is on the aliens, and the humans' reaction to them is viewed objectively and critically. Plenty of action too.
September 14, 2020
Wow!
I loved this book. I thought the story was EPIC! I had to keep turning the pages to see what was going to happen next. By the end, you really just love the characters.
I'm def gonna check out his other books
I loved this book. I thought the story was EPIC! I had to keep turning the pages to see what was going to happen next. By the end, you really just love the characters.
I'm def gonna check out his other books
September 15, 2020
Don't sent invitations if you don't mean it.
I really good read. Great characters you can really root for even if they are the aliens. This is probably about right as far as how earthians would act. We probably don't deserve to meet others until we know how to act.
I really good read. Great characters you can really root for even if they are the aliens. This is probably about right as far as how earthians would act. We probably don't deserve to meet others until we know how to act.
January 22, 2021
Alien People. A different concept in the close encounter of a first time alien adventure. I thought the story moved along quite well, the characters well thought out and settings believable and okay, but a bit too little, and some too many descriptions were given. Overall I gave the novel 5 stars because I liked it.
August 15, 2023
Yet another truly terrible book that I hung on to till the end of out of curiousity. To be fair the premise was interesting (Earth as the alien planet) and some of the setting was familiar (Utah & the Wasatch mtns.) but it just got dumber and bloodier as it went along.
December 7, 2020
Just like most of the other readers, that reviewed John Coon's Alien People, I can say, that the thing that I loved the most about the book is the way that we, humans, are portrait. I mean, when you think about it, we are basically animals ... But the way John Coon paints the picture - it can surely make you see the world from a different angle.
About the characters - I would have loved to see a bit more interaction between the protagonists, their whole relationship was a bit gray.
The story is amazing - portraying Earth as the distant world filled with angry, dumb and violent aliens. That was fresh and interesting.
Overall the book did not disappoint, I am 100% a fan of Mr. Coon and will be sure to get my hands on more of his books.
Christian
BooksShelf Reviewer
About the characters - I would have loved to see a bit more interaction between the protagonists, their whole relationship was a bit gray.
The story is amazing - portraying Earth as the distant world filled with angry, dumb and violent aliens. That was fresh and interesting.
Overall the book did not disappoint, I am 100% a fan of Mr. Coon and will be sure to get my hands on more of his books.
Christian
BooksShelf Reviewer
September 20, 2022
inane plot, poor characterization and writing at the high school level. Total waste of money.
February 14, 2023
1.5 stars
I appreciate the idea, and while it managed to get to where it wanted to go in general, it was tedious. The writing was juvenile, especially at the beginning, but it didn’t improve much afterwards. Even if the story was good, it would have been a difficult read. Who edited this book, and why did they leave it so unpolished? Unfortunately, the situations were so simplistic. These must be the most inept aliens ever. They can change the mind of their king by claiming their rivals will get there first, even though he is deadset against her ideas at first. Then they send a first-contact team that has absolutely no idea how to find the leaders of the planet -do they not have a castle or bureaucrats on their planet? Shouldn’t they be searching for the seat of government? Why would they leave the only two experts at first contact back at the ship? While it was fun to see them at the football game, clueless, there was no reason for it, as a little training during the six-month voyage would have done wonders. According to the story, this isn’t their first first contact; why were they so inept? I was hoping the story would go into actual first contact, but instead it led into a team leader with PTSD, a general who wiped his hands of everything, even though he sent the original probe, and trigger-happy military and aliens. The second half, while a better story of rescue, made the military look ridiculous as well, including the one who turned against his own, willing to kill his own team members. The characters were all one-note without real direction, and unfortunately, there wasn’t enough good here to enjoy.
I appreciate the idea, and while it managed to get to where it wanted to go in general, it was tedious. The writing was juvenile, especially at the beginning, but it didn’t improve much afterwards. Even if the story was good, it would have been a difficult read. Who edited this book, and why did they leave it so unpolished? Unfortunately, the situations were so simplistic. These must be the most inept aliens ever. They can change the mind of their king by claiming their rivals will get there first, even though he is deadset against her ideas at first. Then they send a first-contact team that has absolutely no idea how to find the leaders of the planet -do they not have a castle or bureaucrats on their planet? Shouldn’t they be searching for the seat of government? Why would they leave the only two experts at first contact back at the ship? While it was fun to see them at the football game, clueless, there was no reason for it, as a little training during the six-month voyage would have done wonders. According to the story, this isn’t their first first contact; why were they so inept? I was hoping the story would go into actual first contact, but instead it led into a team leader with PTSD, a general who wiped his hands of everything, even though he sent the original probe, and trigger-happy military and aliens. The second half, while a better story of rescue, made the military look ridiculous as well, including the one who turned against his own, willing to kill his own team members. The characters were all one-note without real direction, and unfortunately, there wasn’t enough good here to enjoy.
October 9, 2022
A reasonable story let down by situations that were just not believable. For example, why would humans think the aliens could speak English when they first met them? Why would the advanced aliens believe they coins were legal tender on Earth? There are a few more instances like this where you can't believe they would know this or would be so naive. Still, the writing was good and flowed well.
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April 3, 2021Excellent story! Great SciFi. I enjoyed the story which gave a different take on a traditional theme. Fresh and entertaining, with a definite twist. The author did an excellent job. I recommend it.
October 3, 2020
🛰️🛰️ONE EXTREME ADVENTURE🛰️🛰️
Holy constellation! John delivers one earthquaking and groundbreaking treat, with this skillfully composed debacle, weaving a tangled web so intricately and precise, drawing you deeper until everything else ceases to exist, wrapping this baby up sleek, shiny and tight. Lured into a devious plot full of daring drama, perilous intrigue, sinister deeds, ruthless cunning, escalating danger, spiraling suspense and unnerving situations, along with a boatload of unfolding revelations, you have one block busting experience. The characters, banter, interactions and charged atmosphere are realistic, complex and genuine with traits and qualities, adding depth and diversity, transforming into outstanding personalities. The scenes are abundantly descriptive with colorful details that blend and flow, creating one vivid backdrop that's so rich and lively it feels as though you were transported to ground zero with them. Remarkable job John, thanks for sharing this thrilling block buster with us.
Holy constellation! John delivers one earthquaking and groundbreaking treat, with this skillfully composed debacle, weaving a tangled web so intricately and precise, drawing you deeper until everything else ceases to exist, wrapping this baby up sleek, shiny and tight. Lured into a devious plot full of daring drama, perilous intrigue, sinister deeds, ruthless cunning, escalating danger, spiraling suspense and unnerving situations, along with a boatload of unfolding revelations, you have one block busting experience. The characters, banter, interactions and charged atmosphere are realistic, complex and genuine with traits and qualities, adding depth and diversity, transforming into outstanding personalities. The scenes are abundantly descriptive with colorful details that blend and flow, creating one vivid backdrop that's so rich and lively it feels as though you were transported to ground zero with them. Remarkable job John, thanks for sharing this thrilling block buster with us.
April 23, 2021
Boring , First Contact Novel
This book was too long in attempting to show first contact through an alien civilization's perspective. I expected more from this novel at least something showing aliens using common sense and good judgement in a first contact scenario. Alas the crew was clueless and acted like amateur explorers in all aspects of this novel. If you don't have anything special lined up, you may want to check this novel out.
This book was too long in attempting to show first contact through an alien civilization's perspective. I expected more from this novel at least something showing aliens using common sense and good judgement in a first contact scenario. Alas the crew was clueless and acted like amateur explorers in all aspects of this novel. If you don't have anything special lined up, you may want to check this novel out.
July 27, 2023
They Came From Outer Space!👽🚀💫
I really enjoyed this reverse alien novel where the humans from earth are the aliens.
Of course the humans are mostly portrayed as cruel, ignorant, And afraid of the future and contact with other species from other parts of the galaxy.
But I imagine that would probably be the truth in this day and age of continual Government cover ups.
The simplistic writing marred the unique Ideas of this story.
I really enjoyed this reverse alien novel where the humans from earth are the aliens.
Of course the humans are mostly portrayed as cruel, ignorant, And afraid of the future and contact with other species from other parts of the galaxy.
But I imagine that would probably be the truth in this day and age of continual Government cover ups.
The simplistic writing marred the unique Ideas of this story.
October 14, 2025
Pretty terrible
I usually don't give book reviews, and especially not really bad ones. But in this book I could not get past the first three chapters. Reads like something written by a high school student. Sorry I purchased this.
Sorry to the author- I can appreciate writing a novel is difficult. But in a time before self-publishing removed any oversight over what can get published, this would never have made it beyond being typed up in a fanzine at best.
I usually don't give book reviews, and especially not really bad ones. But in this book I could not get past the first three chapters. Reads like something written by a high school student. Sorry I purchased this.
Sorry to the author- I can appreciate writing a novel is difficult. But in a time before self-publishing removed any oversight over what can get published, this would never have made it beyond being typed up in a fanzine at best.
October 25, 2022
Thought it would be better
When I first read the synopsis I was
really excited.. flipping the script by making us the evil aliens !! We were,just not the eviI I was thinking,but that's on me. Over all not a bad read..will I read the other volumes?Don't know,there are a lot of loose ends to be tied up so only time will tell.
When I first read the synopsis I was
really excited.. flipping the script by making us the evil aliens !! We were,just not the eviI I was thinking,but that's on me. Over all not a bad read..will I read the other volumes?Don't know,there are a lot of loose ends to be tied up so only time will tell.
August 28, 2023
Read like a bad made-for-TV sci-fi action film from the 70s, complete with aliens that are and do everything like us wearing bad makeup (okay, I just pictured the bad makeup). Written by a teenager for whom English is a second language, I presume.
Nice concept but very poor execution.
Anybody suggest a better book that encounters Earth from the alien's perspective?
Nice concept but very poor execution.
Anybody suggest a better book that encounters Earth from the alien's perspective?
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews