Science fiction has long been a genre of boundless creativity, exploring themes that challenge the limits of reality and imagination. Within this vast landscape, dreams and nightmares serve as compelling tools for both narrative and thematic exploration. From prophetic visions to dystopian delusions, the interplay of the subconscious with futuristic settings offers fertile ground for examining the human experience. This article delves into the role of dreams and nightmares in science fiction, first from a reader’s perspective and then from a writer’s viewpoint, concluding with practical writing tips and real-life applications. Dreams and Nightmares: A Reader’s Perspective For readers, dreams and nightmares in science fiction function as portals to…
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Before the Commonwealth existed, there was an expanding, multi-galaxy civilization. Due to the combined effects of a too-aggressive policy of expansion, civil unrest, the inequality and abuse of the classes, and the categorizing of augmented humans as a slave class, the Central Allied Worlds (CAW) disintegrated. The period of darkness and barbarism that followed is referred to as the Downfall. Various groups of people fled the Central Allied Worlds (referred to by its descendants/survivors simply as “First Civ”) as they became endangered or more powerful people tried to have them classified as mutants or non-humans, and either sterilized or made them into slaves. Among them were the Khybors, the…
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Before the Commonwealth existed, there was an expanding, multi-galaxy civilization. Due to the combined effects of a too-aggressive policy of expansion, civil unrest, the inequality and abuse of the classes, and the categorizing of augmented humans as a slave class, the Central Allied Worlds (CAW) disintegrated. The period of darkness and barbarism that followed is referred to as the Downfall. Various groups of people fled the Central Allied Worlds (referred to by its descendants/survivors simply as “First Civ”) as they became endangered or more powerful people tried to have them classified as mutants or non-humans, and either sterilized or made them into slaves. Among them were the Khybors, the…
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Before the Commonwealth existed, there was an expanding, multi-galaxy civilization. Due to the combined effects of a too-aggressive policy of expansion, civil unrest, the inequality and abuse of the classes, and the categorizing of augmented humans as a slave class, the Central Allied Worlds (CAW) disintegrated. The period of darkness and barbarism that followed is referred to as the Downfall. Various groups of people fled the Central Allied Worlds (referred to by its descendants/survivors simply as “First Civ”) as they became endangered or more powerful people tried to have them classified as mutants or non-humans, and either sterilized or made them into slaves. Among them were the Khybors, the…
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From a Reader’s Perspective: Science fiction (sci-fi) has long captivated readers by blending imaginative storytelling with scientific principles. As a genre, it transports us to worlds where the boundaries of known science are pushed to their limits, offering a glimpse of what might be possible. The impact of science on these fictional worlds is profound, shaping the narrative, characters, and settings in ways that resonate deeply with readers. One of the most compelling aspects of science fiction is its ability to explore “what if” scenarios. These scenarios are often rooted in real scientific concepts, which lend an air of plausibility to the fantastical elements. For instance, the exploration…
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Introduction: A Timeless Fascination Time travel has long been a captivating theme in science fiction novels, intriguing readers with the possibility of journeying through the past, present, and future. As a literary device, it offers endless possibilities, allowing authors to explore historical events, futuristic wonders, and the complex web of cause and effect. From H.G. Wells’ pioneering works to the modern-day masterpieces, time travel continues to be a cornerstone of science fiction, challenging our understanding of time, reality, and our place in the universe. The Allure of the Past and Future The idea of traveling through time has an inherent allure. Who wouldn’t want to witness the construction…
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Science fiction has long captivated the imagination of readers, taking them on journeys to distant galaxies, exploring the possibilities of advanced technology, and pondering the complexities of the human condition. Throughout the centuries, the genre has undergone a remarkable evolution, shaped by the visionary minds of authors who pushed the boundaries of scientific speculation and social commentary. In this article, we embark on a fascinating journey through time, examining the evolution of science fiction from the pioneering works of Jules Verne to the thought-provoking narratives of Isaac Asimov. Jules Verne: The Pioneer of Scientific Adventure At the forefront of the science fiction genre, Jules Verne introduced readers to…
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(ebooks are available from all sites, and print is available from Amazon and Barnes and Noble) Continue the Series: The Amethyst Star Chapter 1 The Hunter raised his head in sudden awareness. Unlike the native inhabitants and even the chameleon Patrollers, who had also come to the Earth in the time of humankind’s greatest need, Randolf and his Hunter brothers used the roadways of old instead of the rail conveyances that kept humans out of reach from the fortress walls and out of the sight and scent of the Carnivores. All his senses attuned, Randolf turned slowly on the cracked tar, reached out to track with his keen sense of…
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A young girl is stolen from her mother by agents of a jealous goddess, escapes and becomes a street waif known as ‘Wren’ who, decades later, is an elder member of the Brethren Guild, a thieves guild in the ancient city of Corwin. A battle with a rival Brethren Guild forces Wren to seek refuge in a temple where she receives the first clues that will lead her toward the truth of who and what she is. From a dream, an amulet in the shape of a phoenix appears around her neck. Engraved on the back of the magic device is one simple word–Liandra. Wren must not…
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Far on the edge of settled space, the colony world Mallachrom is mostly wilderness. Years ago, during an invasion by the alien Talroqi, many adults were killed while most of the children vanished, spirited away to safety by the sentient canines known as Shadows. Those children came back from the wilderness changed, bound to the planet in ways they can’t, or won’t, explain. Called the Taken, they live on the edges of civilization. The new government on Mallachrom fears them enough to want to exterminate the Shadows and claim the Taken are dangerous–under the corrupt influence of Shadows. Starblue Ash, daughter of Rhianni Day and Petroc Ash, is well…
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Far on the edge of settled space, the colony world Mallachrom is mostly wilderness. Years ago, during an invasion by the alien Talroqi, many adults were killed while most of the children vanished, spirited away to safety by the sentient canines known as Shadows. Those children came back from the wilderness changed, bound to the planet in ways they can’t, or won’t, explain. Called the Taken, they live on the edges of civilization. The new government on Mallachrom fears them enough to want to exterminate the Shadows and claim the Taken are dangerous–under the corrupt influence of Shadows. Rover Pilot Nureen Keala, Rhianni Day’s best friend, is on…
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Far on the edge of settled space, the colony world Mallachrom is mostly wilderness. Years ago, during an invasion by the alien Talroqi, many adults were killed while most of the children vanished, spirited away to safety by the sentient canines known as Shadows. Those children came back from the wilderness changed, bound to the planet in ways they can’t, or won’t, explain. Called the Taken, they live on the edges of civilization. The new government on Mallachrom fears them enough to want to exterminate the Shadows and claim the Taken are dangerous–under the corrupt influence of Shadows. The hive-minded insectoid Talroqi have been at war with Humans…
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I sound like this when I’ve had too much stress and not enough sleep…
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What a gal!
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Badger, for those who don’t know is played by Mark Sheppard <sp?>, who was also in Dr Who and Crowley from Supernatural.
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Terran, a young genius abandoned to poverty, feels called to something great. He is given that chance when Naomi and Rictor, intergalactic missionaries of the Bound, arrive at his doorstep. They offer a simple choice, to travel the stars with them or stay behind and fend for himself. Terran chooses the stars, believing it is the obvious answer. When an attempt is made on his life before he leaves the planet, he starts to question his decision. Naomi, meanwhile, is in contact with the Bound’s enemies, forced to do their bidding while they hold her son captive. Rictor just wants to keep the ship from falling apart. As their individual…
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Poor Jayne, loved him, but he was an ass sometimes.
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Who knew the difference would be THAT important!
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Nah, Atherton deserved it! Mal, you’re still a great man:)
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Interview with author Karen Wiesner Please tell us about your science fiction series currently in progress. I write in nearly every genre of fiction you can imagine, along with nonfiction and writing reference, children’s books and poetry. Science fiction horror is my favorite genre to read. I’m the biggest fan of the Alien movie franchise, and that’s not being done as often as I’d like to see in fiction, whether in books or movies. I’ve always wanted to write a story that combined those two genres. I’ve written horror but never science fiction before. The premise I started Arrow of Time Chronicles with was a sci-fi story…
