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Crescent Earth
“You’re not going to use that gun, are you? In the future you’re from, have I been shot and killed today?”
Frankie Mason is dead. Even though his murderer has been caught and sentenced, Frankie’s only son, James, is unable to cope with the permanent scar left by witnessing his father’s brutal death. No matter what lengths he would have to go to, James will have his revenge.
Crescent Earth is the first book of this sci-fi series, opening with the first intentional murder of a human committed by a sentient android. Piloting a time traveling spaceship, James pursues his father’s murderer, infiltrating Martian moon bases, breaking into solarpunk glass cities, and fighting his way through underground military facilities.
Now, as the truth of his father’s murder finally seems within his reach, James is finding revenge and time travel itself a little more than he had asked for. Would he be able to carry out his plans for vengeance, even knowing he should? After all, as the mysterious Dr. Haywood Williams says, history has a way of preserving itself.
Frankie Mason is dead. Even though his murderer has been caught and sentenced, Frankie’s only son, James, is unable to cope with the permanent scar left by witnessing his father’s brutal death. No matter what lengths he would have to go to, James will have his revenge.
Crescent Earth is the first book of this sci-fi series, opening with the first intentional murder of a human committed by a sentient android. Piloting a time traveling spaceship, James pursues his father’s murderer, infiltrating Martian moon bases, breaking into solarpunk glass cities, and fighting his way through underground military facilities.
Now, as the truth of his father’s murder finally seems within his reach, James is finding revenge and time travel itself a little more than he had asked for. Would he be able to carry out his plans for vengeance, even knowing he should? After all, as the mysterious Dr. Haywood Williams says, history has a way of preserving itself.
- GenresFictionScience Fiction
240 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 25, 2021
32 people are currently reading
1947 people want to read
About the author
Ilia Epifanov
3 books37 followersIlia Epifanov is an American science fiction and supernatural thriller author. He has written over thirty short stories, books, and comics, and his works take readers to curious and uncanny worlds to grapple with intimacy and loss.
Crescent Earth, the first book of Ilia’s latest sci-fi series, kicks off his most ambitious mystery yet. Through a time traveling spaceship, readers are transported across a rich interstellar landscape to solve the murder of Frankie Mason.
In his spare time, Ilia is a developmental editor who reads crime fiction and comic books while taking his two Pomeranians to the park. He gets his inspiration from long walks with his family and through his travels. He was born in St. Petersburg, Russia, and currently lives in Los Angeles.
Crescent Earth, the first book of Ilia’s latest sci-fi series, kicks off his most ambitious mystery yet. Through a time traveling spaceship, readers are transported across a rich interstellar landscape to solve the murder of Frankie Mason.
In his spare time, Ilia is a developmental editor who reads crime fiction and comic books while taking his two Pomeranians to the park. He gets his inspiration from long walks with his family and through his travels. He was born in St. Petersburg, Russia, and currently lives in Los Angeles.
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
September 22, 2021
I found myself wanting more details! Granted I’ve always loved the little details in books, but this one screams for more! I LOVED the plot; the idea of not only something in the future (and past) but so many twists and turns along the way. I craved more character development and totally would have enjoyed a longer book if it allowed for deeper descriptions of the environment, people, thoughts, etc. I really was left craving more of the story! Overall the book was well written and had an amazingly interesting plot. I want another one!
September 14, 2021
Great read
I wasn’t sure what to expect, It started out slow and the turned into a fast paced good old fashioned sci-fi rocking adventure, I enjoyed reading it and can’t wait to see what else this author comes up with.
I wasn’t sure what to expect, It started out slow and the turned into a fast paced good old fashioned sci-fi rocking adventure, I enjoyed reading it and can’t wait to see what else this author comes up with.
February 11, 2022
3.25 / 5
This book was mediocre. Thankfully it was a quick read.
Apparently this is supposed to be the first of a series. I'm not entirely convinced I have any desire to read any follow ups.
-- U P D A T E --
My original review was pretty accurate to how it made me feel, as it overall the story did not wow me, but I think it could still have some promise as the ground work for the overall story.
This book was mediocre. Thankfully it was a quick read.
-- U P D A T E --
My original review was pretty accurate to how it made me feel, as it overall the story did not wow me, but I think it could still have some promise as the ground work for the overall story.
April 13, 2022
I loved this book! It started out as something of a mystery, but then quickly became more of a sci-fi thriller. I also found it to be deeper than just a thriller though, it actually gets kind of philosophical twarda the end.
No spoilers, but the ending isn't exactly what you would expect. Many things are left unresolved.
No spoilers, but the ending isn't exactly what you would expect. Many things are left unresolved.
May 15, 2022
If you like science fiction and/or suspense stories, you will enjoy this book. You will be turning pages just to find out about... sorry, no spoiler...
But, while I'm not too much into science fiction, I am into prospective design or design of futures (what the world will be like in 10 or 20 years, so we can prepare for it), and this book will show you one such a future... It is dated around 2125, so it may be a little more like 100 years, but it will definitely drive your imagination, as it did mine. So if you are designer, entrepreneur or creator, you will enjoy the setting as much as the story.
Just eager to read the sequel!!!
(I left this same review o Amazon)
But, while I'm not too much into science fiction, I am into prospective design or design of futures (what the world will be like in 10 or 20 years, so we can prepare for it), and this book will show you one such a future... It is dated around 2125, so it may be a little more like 100 years, but it will definitely drive your imagination, as it did mine. So if you are designer, entrepreneur or creator, you will enjoy the setting as much as the story.
Just eager to read the sequel!!!
(I left this same review o Amazon)
April 13, 2022
Great story! I hope to see the sequel soon! Love authors writing style!
February 5, 2022
I'll keep the review mostly spoiler-free, any spoiler is spoiler-marked.
First off, the book doesn't have a conclusive ending. It's meant to be part one of a series, except the series hasn't been written yet. A questionable choice for a first book for an author (even though the author had been a ghost writer before).
I'm a fan of sci-fi and that is also mostly why I give this book 2 instead of 1 star - the worldbuilding and scifi is nice. Except for one part.
The characters were believable the first half of the book (except whatever hot mess the first chapter was), but eventually they just go overboard with all their established goals and literally change a) their goals every couple pages and b) their mind about what to do literally every other sentence.
The writing is also pretty awkward. Many sentences simply don't fit together and after pondering for a while you realise what kind of leap in thoughts the character had but it simply doesn't read well.
Another part is the narrative structure. . Something gets introduced and seems super important, 20 pages later it's all over. The book also suffers from 'name-dropping'-syndrome. It just name drops a name and expects it to be the big revelation but it just makes the reader go "???". The whole thing is just a hot mess, it drops plot twists on you just for the sake for plot twists but they aren't even impactful since the inital "plot" that was being twisted upon WAS ESTABLISHED ONLY 2 PAGES EARLIER.
I cannot recommend this book. I just hope the author somehow resolves the issues of the first book (the narrative issues, not the 'questions' that the characters are thinking of) in the second book. Or write another Sci-Fi book without
First off, the book doesn't have a conclusive ending. It's meant to be part one of a series, except the series hasn't been written yet. A questionable choice for a first book for an author (even though the author had been a ghost writer before).
I'm a fan of sci-fi and that is also mostly why I give this book 2 instead of 1 star - the worldbuilding and scifi is nice. Except for one part.
The characters were believable the first half of the book (except whatever hot mess the first chapter was), but eventually they just go overboard with all their established goals and literally change a) their goals every couple pages and b) their mind about what to do literally every other sentence.
The writing is also pretty awkward. Many sentences simply don't fit together and after pondering for a while you realise what kind of leap in thoughts the character had but it simply doesn't read well.
Another part is the narrative structure. . Something gets introduced and seems super important, 20 pages later it's all over. The book also suffers from 'name-dropping'-syndrome. It just name drops a name and expects it to be the big revelation but it just makes the reader go "???". The whole thing is just a hot mess, it drops plot twists on you just for the sake for plot twists but they aren't even impactful since the inital "plot" that was being twisted upon WAS ESTABLISHED ONLY 2 PAGES EARLIER.
I cannot recommend this book. I just hope the author somehow resolves the issues of the first book (the narrative issues, not the 'questions' that the characters are thinking of) in the second book. Or write another Sci-Fi book without
October 31, 2021
Futuristic stories are attractive because we all wonder what lies beyond space and time. However, such stories can also delineate readers by treading upon too familiar territory. Crescent Earth evolves in a common arena but has cracked the code of keeping the reader hooked. The novel starts with a mysterious happening and leaves the reader just there, hanging in the balance. It swiftly moves into another intriguing incident.
Most of the novel is about this second incident and builds on multiple layers. Ilia Epifanov has derived inspiration from several sources. For instance, when he writes, "The Foundation is the prime manufacturer of androids on Earth," one is reminded of the Asimov's Foundation series. He has woven his imagination around known concepts but keeps us eager to explore more from his perspective. The book brings to us on a platter, time travel, military involvement, space exploration and colonies, androids, robots, innovations, inventions, and the ubiquitous bad men!
The writing is simple, straightforward, and fully supports the fast-paced narrative. Some parts are tastefully rendered; sample this: "I point at the night sky, heavy gray with a hint of orange and littered with stars like endless freckles." The intrigue is well-built and keeps the reader engaged because, remember, the first mystery that forms the outer case of this novel, is still unresolved. I enjoyed the concept of a multi-layered mystery in a space-opera setting.
The characters are well-fleshed out and gel into the storyline. Descriptions of places and incidents are positioned so as not to drag down the actual story. The book speaks of planning, outlining, and successful articulation by the writer. It is a good weekend read and is a great attempt in the genre of science fiction. This is not a small feat in the proliferation of writing in this genre. Grab your copy for a roller coaster ride that will keep you on the edge and definitely guessing throughout this space-bound journey.
Most of the novel is about this second incident and builds on multiple layers. Ilia Epifanov has derived inspiration from several sources. For instance, when he writes, "The Foundation is the prime manufacturer of androids on Earth," one is reminded of the Asimov's Foundation series. He has woven his imagination around known concepts but keeps us eager to explore more from his perspective. The book brings to us on a platter, time travel, military involvement, space exploration and colonies, androids, robots, innovations, inventions, and the ubiquitous bad men!
The writing is simple, straightforward, and fully supports the fast-paced narrative. Some parts are tastefully rendered; sample this: "I point at the night sky, heavy gray with a hint of orange and littered with stars like endless freckles." The intrigue is well-built and keeps the reader engaged because, remember, the first mystery that forms the outer case of this novel, is still unresolved. I enjoyed the concept of a multi-layered mystery in a space-opera setting.
The characters are well-fleshed out and gel into the storyline. Descriptions of places and incidents are positioned so as not to drag down the actual story. The book speaks of planning, outlining, and successful articulation by the writer. It is a good weekend read and is a great attempt in the genre of science fiction. This is not a small feat in the proliferation of writing in this genre. Grab your copy for a roller coaster ride that will keep you on the edge and definitely guessing throughout this space-bound journey.
August 18, 2024
Such a great series starter, this sci-fi had a lot of what my little nerd brain likes!
In this first book there's a lot of scene setting and understanding of the characters, done seamlessly within the plot without resulting in a convoluted explanation or description, but very organically as the story unfolded.
I found the different points of view and the different points in time very well written and not confusing at all, and I enjoyed the many twists which kept me wanting to read (although the time travel was really gripping in itself!)
I loved all the characters for different reasons and I empathised a lot with James, a lost soul, made even more lost due to his travelling across space and time, so much so that the future is now his past (very cool concept!)
I'm looking forward to the sequel as that ending didn't satisfy me one bit with that cliffhanger.
If you want to experience some good sci-fi, at times reminiscent of the film Tenet, then I'd recommend this read.
Thanks to the author and Twins And Talent for a copy and this is my honest opinion.
In this first book there's a lot of scene setting and understanding of the characters, done seamlessly within the plot without resulting in a convoluted explanation or description, but very organically as the story unfolded.
I found the different points of view and the different points in time very well written and not confusing at all, and I enjoyed the many twists which kept me wanting to read (although the time travel was really gripping in itself!)
I loved all the characters for different reasons and I empathised a lot with James, a lost soul, made even more lost due to his travelling across space and time, so much so that the future is now his past (very cool concept!)
I'm looking forward to the sequel as that ending didn't satisfy me one bit with that cliffhanger.
If you want to experience some good sci-fi, at times reminiscent of the film Tenet, then I'd recommend this read.
Thanks to the author and Twins And Talent for a copy and this is my honest opinion.
August 14, 2024
I've just emerged from the mesmerizing world of Crescent Earth, a novel that defies categorization and lingers in my mind like a whispered secret. Ilia Epifanov's writing is a masterclass in atmospheric tension, weaving together threads of mysticism, science, and surrealism to create a narrative that's both familiar and unsettling.
As I delved into the heart of this enigmatic tale, I found myself questioning the boundaries between reality and illusion. The characters, with their own secrets and motivations, are skillfully drawn to propel the reader deeper into the labyrinthine world of Crescent Earth. The prose is evocative, conjuring vivid images of a world that's both fantastical and eerily plausible.
While I'm hesitant to reveal more, I will say that this book is a slow-burning fire that will leave you breathless and craving more. If you're willing to surrender to the author's unique vision, you'll be rewarded with a thought-provoking and unforgettable reading experience. Just be prepared to have your perceptions of the world shifted – permanently.
If you enjoy sci-fi novels that explore complex themes and ideas, or if you're interested in futuristic worlds with unique twists on our own reality, then "Crescent Earth" by Ilia Epifanov is definitely worth your time.
As I delved into the heart of this enigmatic tale, I found myself questioning the boundaries between reality and illusion. The characters, with their own secrets and motivations, are skillfully drawn to propel the reader deeper into the labyrinthine world of Crescent Earth. The prose is evocative, conjuring vivid images of a world that's both fantastical and eerily plausible.
While I'm hesitant to reveal more, I will say that this book is a slow-burning fire that will leave you breathless and craving more. If you're willing to surrender to the author's unique vision, you'll be rewarded with a thought-provoking and unforgettable reading experience. Just be prepared to have your perceptions of the world shifted – permanently.
If you enjoy sci-fi novels that explore complex themes and ideas, or if you're interested in futuristic worlds with unique twists on our own reality, then "Crescent Earth" by Ilia Epifanov is definitely worth your time.
February 22, 2022
I bought this book after seeing a post on Reddit that the author had been a ghost writer for a number of years or whatever. I got curious to see what they could make if they're writing for others.
I like scifi, read Hitchiker's and in the middle of the second novel. But man, time travel is just iffy to write about.
Book is really well written, I'm enjoying the characters and the mystery and just everything unfolding. But that guy, James, he just feels like a whiny, useless character with terrible ideas and has no impact on the story but to watch events unfold.
I dunno, it was a quick read and I guess I had fun lol kinda wanna read the next installment, too.
I like scifi, read Hitchiker's and in the middle of the second novel. But man, time travel is just iffy to write about.
Book is really well written, I'm enjoying the characters and the mystery and just everything unfolding. But that guy, James, he just feels like a whiny, useless character with terrible ideas and has no impact on the story but to watch events unfold.
I dunno, it was a quick read and I guess I had fun lol kinda wanna read the next installment, too.
June 10, 2024
Time machine as a flying saucer 🛸 !? Could not imagine a better thing!
Wow, this was such an adventurous, captivating and addicting experience. Loved it so much and the plot twists were truly mind blowing.
If you’re looking for a sci-fi murder mystery novel don’t hesitate to check out this fantastic book because I can assure you that it will be a unique ride. The ending left me super intrigued to pick up the next book and see where this fun ride takes me!
If I don’t respond to your message right away just know I’m reading the sequel. 😌
Wow, this was such an adventurous, captivating and addicting experience. Loved it so much and the plot twists were truly mind blowing.
If you’re looking for a sci-fi murder mystery novel don’t hesitate to check out this fantastic book because I can assure you that it will be a unique ride. The ending left me super intrigued to pick up the next book and see where this fun ride takes me!
If I don’t respond to your message right away just know I’m reading the sequel. 😌
September 21, 2021
A solid novel from Epifanov combining murder mystery, time travel and classic sci-fi elements (flying saucer, men in black and time paradoxes) into an enjoyable novel. One star off for some slow passages near the beginning but once it gets going you won't put it down. Looking forward to the next book in this journey through time.
September 29, 2021
Very engaging sci-fi novel
I really enjoyed this book. Very well-written, engaging story and characters. What starts out as more out a mystery turns long so much more as the story goes on. I don't want to give spoilers but if you like sci-fi, you'll enjoy the book and the author's writing style.
I really enjoyed this book. Very well-written, engaging story and characters. What starts out as more out a mystery turns long so much more as the story goes on. I don't want to give spoilers but if you like sci-fi, you'll enjoy the book and the author's writing style.
November 17, 2024
I do hope that there is another book in series for two reasons. The first is innocuous enough: I loved the writing style. It was engaging and the changes from first and third person meant it was easier to understand who you were reading and, well, when. The second reason is something of a spoiler so I'm going to leave it be, but I will say that same reason is why it has three stars.
There was a resolution that I thought was coming and yet it never showed up.
edited to four stars since the concern I had is now gone.
There was a resolution that I thought was coming and yet it never showed up.
edited to four stars since the concern I had is now gone.
February 6, 2022
What a great work of art. I love a good novel like this one that can change perspectives and drop bombshells while pulling the reader deeper and deeper into the pages. This is a book for the 21st century.
April 5, 2023
Had potential but didn't deliver on it.
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews