Showing posts with label action adventure. Show all posts
Showing posts with label action adventure. Show all posts
Monday, July 30, 2018
Would you live on a space station? - by Vijaya Schartz
Imagine debarking from a spaceship into a vast array of wide corridors like an airport terminal. Except that the entryway seals are hermetic, and the side windows show black space, with spaceships anchored to the giant circular wheel encircling the space station, like the rings of a planet. The station floats in space, orbiting a small planet. Or it could be in the wide orbit of a faraway sun. The station, built and expanded over centuries, would be made of many different parts, some older, others brand new. Size is irrelevant in space. It can be as big as needed.
First, you would notice the lighter gravity. You might even get sick. If you spent much time in space, it would be familiar, but if you came from a heavy world like Earth, the change would be noticeable. You would probably grow taller over time, as gravity doesn't pull you down as much, but your bones might grow lighter and weaker.
Hundreds of thousands could live there. Even millions. They would have room for growing food without dirt in hydroponic tubs, they would manufacture artificial meat in labs, without raising animals, and they would make their own water and their own oxygen. The complex would function like a large city, not bound by the planetary cycles of day and night... although they may want to create a semblance of circadian rhythm for the comfort of their visitors and inhabitants.
The station could be a port for trading goods, with commercial docks and cranes to load and unload large containers from ships to dock and vice-versa. It could also be a pleasure destination. I imagine a Vegas type of atmosphere, with entertainment, gambling dens, spas, shopping, restaurants, and all the luxuries we imagine in the future, like cyber-pleasures... the legal and the illegal kinds. I personally like the idea of sex robots.
By the time we get to that level of sophistication, we may have made contact with other space-faring races, and that might bring diversity (and possibly discrimination) into our advanced society.
Such a place would need tight security. Space is not the safest place. There would be corruption, gangs, drugs, terrorism, and individuals striving for control. Delinquents would be detained in jail-like areas. There might even be a prison, but who needs metal bars when a clear titanium pane can do the trick?
At the core of the structure, would be a reactor to generate the energy needed to keep that city in space running smoothly. As we know, reactors can become unstable. More fodder for future stories.
But what would happen to those forgotten by the system? Orphans growing on the fringe of the affluent society, escapees, and stowaways might be reduced to hide in disaffected parts of the station and form their own society. They might steal in order to survive. So far from central power (and from the overseeing authority), such a community might recourse to shortcuts, unethical practices, and oppression of the underprivileged.
As you see, the world of tomorrow may not be so different from ours, because no matter how many advances we make in science, health, and space exploration, human nature doesn't change that much.
It's all about survival, and the balance of good and evil. And that controversy will not soon be resolved, so there is plenty of fodder for upcoming science fiction novels.
In the meantime, you can learn more about life on a space station by reading the Azura Chronicles. Book 1, ANGEL MINE is already out and Fianna, my heroine, is a bounty hunter. But she was born on the Byzantium-5 space station, orphaned as a teenager, then survived with the protection of a violent gang, the Dragon Squad.
What in the frozen hells of Laxxar prompted Fianna to pursue her quarry to this forbidden blue planet? Well, she needs the credits... badly. But as if crashing in the jungle wasn't bad enough, none of her high-tech weapons work. She'll have to go native, after the most wanted felon in five galaxies. It's not just her job. It's personal.
Acielon has never seen an outworlder like this fascinating female, strangely beautiful, and fierce, like the feline predator loping at her side. He always dreamed of exploring the universe, despite the legends... and the interdiction. Is it truly a hellish place of violence, lies and suffering? If it spawned this intriguing creature, it must also be a place of wonders, adventure and excitement.
Fianna's instincts tell her someone is watching. Sheba, her telepathic feline partner, doesn't seem worried... yet, something on Azura isn't quite right.
HAPPY READING
Vijaya Schartz, author
http://www.vijayaschartz.com
Click to Vijaya's page on AMAZON - B&N - smashWords - KOBO
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| This is how I imagine Byzantium-5, the space station featured in the Azura Chronicles |
First, you would notice the lighter gravity. You might even get sick. If you spent much time in space, it would be familiar, but if you came from a heavy world like Earth, the change would be noticeable. You would probably grow taller over time, as gravity doesn't pull you down as much, but your bones might grow lighter and weaker.
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| Hundreds of miles of corridors in a wide circle around the core. Fortunately, there are also levitating cars and carts to carry the luggage. |
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| Parks and gardens would provide oxygen and relaxation |
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| Here the scale is misleading. The craft would be tiny as it approaches the behemoth of a station |
By the time we get to that level of sophistication, we may have made contact with other space-faring races, and that might bring diversity (and possibly discrimination) into our advanced society.
Such a place would need tight security. Space is not the safest place. There would be corruption, gangs, drugs, terrorism, and individuals striving for control. Delinquents would be detained in jail-like areas. There might even be a prison, but who needs metal bars when a clear titanium pane can do the trick?
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| Glass is not resistant enough and too breakable for these windows. I imagine they are made of transparent metal |
But what would happen to those forgotten by the system? Orphans growing on the fringe of the affluent society, escapees, and stowaways might be reduced to hide in disaffected parts of the station and form their own society. They might steal in order to survive. So far from central power (and from the overseeing authority), such a community might recourse to shortcuts, unethical practices, and oppression of the underprivileged.
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| Although this is a futuristic design for a train station, I imagine the style would fit a space station as well |
As you see, the world of tomorrow may not be so different from ours, because no matter how many advances we make in science, health, and space exploration, human nature doesn't change that much.
It's all about survival, and the balance of good and evil. And that controversy will not soon be resolved, so there is plenty of fodder for upcoming science fiction novels.
In the meantime, you can learn more about life on a space station by reading the Azura Chronicles. Book 1, ANGEL MINE is already out and Fianna, my heroine, is a bounty hunter. But she was born on the Byzantium-5 space station, orphaned as a teenager, then survived with the protection of a violent gang, the Dragon Squad.
Acielon has never seen an outworlder like this fascinating female, strangely beautiful, and fierce, like the feline predator loping at her side. He always dreamed of exploring the universe, despite the legends... and the interdiction. Is it truly a hellish place of violence, lies and suffering? If it spawned this intriguing creature, it must also be a place of wonders, adventure and excitement.
Fianna's instincts tell her someone is watching. Sheba, her telepathic feline partner, doesn't seem worried... yet, something on Azura isn't quite right.
HAPPY READING
Vijaya Schartz, author
http://www.vijayaschartz.com
Click to Vijaya's page on AMAZON - B&N - smashWords - KOBO
Monday, April 11, 2016
FREE in kindle: CRUSADER, Archangel Book 1
Hurry. This standalone story in the Archangel speculative fiction, sci-fi adventure books is free in kindle until April 12. Find it at:
Michael Tanner, proud, brash, irreverent, half Native American, and
single father, doesn't believe in aliens. When a Blue Angel claims to
have fathered him, Michael knows his drinking has gone haywire... But a
seductive Prince of Darkness born of a nightmare now targets Michael’s
family. When his girlfriend disappears and characters from his dreams
suddenly materialize to threaten his daughter, Michael must come out of
denial and overcome his weaknesses, to face the unbelievable mystery of
his birth and fulfill his unique destiny.
"...relationships, angels, aliens and seduction... even Satanism... kept this reviewer riveted... compelling fantasy... you won't want to put it down... superior... enthralls, and, at the same time, awakens!" - Metaphysical Reviews
"A mighty fine tale primed to read through in one sitting." - Curled Up With a Good Book.
"...engaging and fast-paced... a harmonious mix of enticing story... where real people do extraordinary things... humorous and hopeful... fluid and entertaining... quick and often droll dialogue... a marvelous tale of good and evil..." - The Charlotte Austin Review
"...Lavishly described, expertly written with stirring descriptions that take one's breath away. Author Schartz has written a solidly absorbing, old-fashioned science fiction novel of good and evil, yes and no, the one and the many." - The Book Reader
"...relationships, angels, aliens and seduction... even Satanism... kept this reviewer riveted... compelling fantasy... you won't want to put it down... superior... enthralls, and, at the same time, awakens!" - Metaphysical Reviews
"A mighty fine tale primed to read through in one sitting." - Curled Up With a Good Book.
"...engaging and fast-paced... a harmonious mix of enticing story... where real people do extraordinary things... humorous and hopeful... fluid and entertaining... quick and often droll dialogue... a marvelous tale of good and evil..." - The Charlotte Austin Review
"...Lavishly described, expertly written with stirring descriptions that take one's breath away. Author Schartz has written a solidly absorbing, old-fashioned science fiction novel of good and evil, yes and no, the one and the many." - The Book Reader
HAPPY READING!
Blasters, Swords, Romance with a Kick
http://www.vijayaschartz.com
Amazon - Barnes & Noble - All Romance eBooks - Smashwords - iBooks - Kobo
Monday, March 14, 2016
Aliens, Gods, and Romance in Ancient Egypt - by Vijaya Schartz
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| The male gods: Thoth god of wisdom, Horus the defeated rightful king, Set the evil uncle murderer and usurper |
GODS OF EGYPT explodes on the big screen and just blew my mind. Love, passion, hatred, revenge, greed, power hunger, and redemption. It has it all, even humor. I loved the script, the storytelling, and the fresh take on the myth. I like that it respects the legend. I also like the fact that the sun god Ra resides in space, on what looks very much like an alien spaceship. The gods are much taller than humans, and liquid gold flow in their veins. Cool
Don't wait for the DVD. This super-production, reminiscent of the great movies of the fifties with high pagentry and lots of extras, must be seen on the big screen, preferably in 3D. Today, of course, we use digital images and blue screens, and the result is amazing. Morphing gods larger than life and alien ships in orbit are possible, and incredible creatures come alive. We understand why the Egyptians revered their gods when they exhibited such powers.
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| Hathor, goddess of love and Zaya, beauty of the Nile, a simple mortal in love. |
I am a new fan of Nicolaj Coster-Waldau playing Horus. Gerard Butler makes a formidable evil brother Set, and the goddess of love, Hathor is played by the beautiful Elodie Yung. As for the mortal couple, Brenton Thwaites and Courtney Eaton as Kek and Zaya, they have the right amount of innocence, chemistry, faith, courage, and determination.
I like the fact that this movie doesn't focus on the better known story of the dismemberment of Osiris by his brother Set. Instead it features Osiris's son and rightful king, the god Horus. Portrayed as a happy go lucky rich boy who loves parties, Horus has a rocky start when on his coronation day, Set kills his father, beats up Horus and steals his all-seeing eyes, his woman... as well as his kingdom... which Set quickly exploits and enslaves for his own aggrandizement. Blind and dispossessed, Horus falls into depression and despair. It will take the example and encouragement of two of his fiercest worshipers to give him the strength and courage to fight back and free his people.
How relevant to our times is this story? More than you think. Greed and power hunger are still a strong motivation among the elite. Love can still move mountains. A few courageous souls can defy their betters and win great battles against impossible odds. Besides, we still honor the old myths. We only have to look at our dollar bill to see the eye of Horus, the all-seeing eye, atop the Egyptian pyramid. Where do you think this came from?
I strongly encourage you to see this movie. You won't regret it. In the meantime, you can read more about gods and aliens with incredible powers in my CHRONICLES OF KASSOUK series. WHITE TIGER is still free at ARe, and Snow Cheetah just received a 5-star review from Fallen Angel Reviews. "On
top of being an incredible Sci-fi story, this book had many unique
aspects. The biggest of which was one lovable and fun-loving snow
Cheetah called Pangura, a pet, and the soon-to-be Queen Natalia...
This story ensnared me from the
very beginning with the many plot twists, fascinating characters, many
Science fiction themes, and a love story that was truly inspiring. This
was a wonderful addition to the Chronicles of Kassouk series." Fallen
Angel Reviews - 5 stars
Blasters, Swords, Romance with a Kick
http://www.vijayaschartz.com
Amazon - Barnes & Noble - All Romance eBooks - Smashwords - iBooks - Kobo
Monday, February 15, 2016
WHITE TIGER IS FREE AT ARE! YAY!
Start reading the award-winning CHRONICLES OF KASSOUK sci-fi romance series ABSOLUTELY FREE!
WHITE TIGER, Book One, is permafree at ARE in all ebook formats, for all devices. Get it HERE
CHRONICLES OF KASSOUK:
OVERVIEW OF THE SERIES
Noah's Ark, a transport full of human settlers equipped to seed a new planet with life, crashes on the wrong world, a cold orb beyond the confines of the known universe. Seeking refuge in the abandoned alien fortress of Kassouk, the settlers and their motley crew fight for survival, against hostile natives, and advanced galactic races who consider them cheap labor and research material for their genetic experiments.
Stranded with no hope of rescue, deprived of their technology by the ruling aliens, the humans of Kassouk reverse to a medieval farming society with slight differences. Besides horses and swords, they keep large felines as pets and train them for battle. They also proudly adopt big cat names as warrior names, and women often strive as military leaders.
As they fight their alien rulers to keep their freedom and their pride, as well as the right to freely choose their mates… other, more insidious dangers lurk. Generation after generation, as the people of Kassouk evolve and secretly learn from the alien races oppressing them, a few start developing extraordinary abilities…
WHITE TIGER - Book One
On the frozen plains of Kassouk, where a few aliens rule a medieval Human world, Tora, Human warrior trained by tigers, seeks her father’s murderer. But what she finds at the point of her sword confuses her. How dare Dragomir, the handsome Mutant, question her bloodline and her loyalties? And could a new enemy control the savage hordes of the fringe?
Dragomir offers to help, but Humans and Mutants are forbidden to fraternize under penalty of death... Should Tora trust her mind, her instincts, or her heart?
In the vortex of war, treason and intrigue, among blizzards, avalanches and ambushes, Tora sets out to solve the mystery of her father’s death. When she unveils the secret of her birth, she realizes Dragomir is the key, and together, they must save their planet from the invaders and fulfill their destiny... if they can survive dire persecutions from those they mean to protect.
"...an exceptional tale that belongs in a place of honor on keeper shelves everywhere." Johnna Flores - Coffee Time Romance - 5-cups
"...this is one futuristic that you do not want to miss!" Naomi - Fallen Angels Reviews - 5 angels - Recommended Read
"...kept me enthralled from the first page...a thrilling science fiction romance" Marlene Breakfield, Paranormal Romance Reviews
"...unique and extremely well constructed" 4 1/2 stars Tami Brady at Book Ideas.com
"I'm adding this to my 'keeper' shelf and on the 'to be re-read' list." Niniri Theriault for The Road to Romance
"...fast-paced story that draws the reader in and keeps him/her reading... The characters' personalities are believable and well rounded." Gottawrite Network
HERE IS THE REST OF THE SERIES: Available in all formats everywhere, including paperback.
Vijaya Schartz
Blasters, Swords, Romance with a Kick
http://www.vijayaschartz.com
Amazon - Barnes & Noble - All Romance eBooks - Smashwords - iBooks - Kobo
Monday, April 13, 2015
Interview with Vijaya Schartz (part 2)
How old were you when you finished your first novel? Is that novel published today?
I started a nonfiction book in my twenties but never finished it. Only after I settled down from my travels to write seriously for publication did I start and finish my first novel. Crusader was a labor of love. It took me two years to write it and two more years to polish it to publishable standards. Meanwhile, I was writing the second book, Checkmate. I was in my forties, and yes, that first novel was published eventually, after I wrote three more books and published the fourth book I wrote.
WHITE TIGER, my first novel published with Desert Breeze, Initially stood alone. When DBP offered to republish it after its first publisher closed down their doors and I had the rights back, I rewrote it. It became the first novel of a new series, the CHRONICLES OF KASSOUK.
Are you a full-out plotter? Are you a "let's see what happens" pantser? Or do you think you fall somewhere in between? Describe your process in coming up with and executing a story idea.
Like every fiction writer, I started as a pantser, following the whim of the characters, not knowing where the story would lead me. It's a very enjoyable process and a valid technique for literary fiction... but only if you have all the time in the world to go back and delete half the book then rewrite it, every time you realize you went in a wrong direction or wrote your characters into a corner. If I only have four to six months to write a novel, I cannot afford to go back and rewrite it fifteen times, like I did on my first book. I brainstorm to learn who my characters are, the main plot and the main twists, as well as how it will end. I also brainstorm about the setting, what is likely to happen in that environment, what the dangers are, what the political intrigues, the surrounding conflicts and the action might be. Then I write an outline of about fifteen pages, where each scene has a paragraph. During the writing process, my mind still explores other possibilities, and often I get better ideas and interesting details for the plot and the characters, so I modify my outline accordingly as I write. My main plot line, however, usually remains the same, although nothing is definite until the final draft goes to the editor.
Where do you draw your inspiration from? Is it dreams? Things you see on television or in movies. Books? People you meet?
The sources of my inspiration are many. Sometimes it's a dream, a fleeting idea crossing my mind as I talk with friends, watch a show or read a book. Sometimes a publisher will ask me to write a story in a multi-author series, like in the DBP novellas set on the Borealis space station (BLACK DRAGON - AKIRA'S CHOICE). I work well with specific constraints. Give me a world, a backdrop, and I'll come up with a story and characters that will fit it perfectly. Other times, it starts with a concept, a legend, or a "what if?"
The Chronicles of Kassouk series started with "What if a group of humans crashed on an unknown cold planet, lost their technology, then evolved again from scratch in their new environment. What would their society look like after a few hundred years?" Of course, this is super-simplified. If you read NOAH'S ARK, you'll realize the human ship in question was on a mission to seed a new planet with life, that its motley crew concealed many dangerous secrets on this one-way no-questions-ask voyage, and that their accidental crash was anything but an accident. Each book in the series is also a complete romantic story.
Monday, September 30, 2013
Waiting for the sci-fi Fall movies - by Vijaya Schartz
This summer we had Oblivion and Elysium. Loved them both, but preferred Elysium. Will Smith and Jaden Smith did a good job in After Earth. Star Trek, of course lived up to its fabulous fame. Iron Man 3 was better than the previous two. The Man of Steel didn't shake the earth.
I didn't bother to go see Pacific Rim. Big machines can be fun, but I'm more interested in deep characters and an intriguing believable plot. Never cared for RIDDICK, darkness, and more darkness, so I passed on that one. Also passed on GI Joe Retaliation. Will wait until it comes on TV. Don't care for zombies, so didn't bother with WORLD WAR Z. Maybe I'll catch it on cable.
Out this fall is GRAVITY.
A medical engineer and an astronaut work together to survive after an accident leaves them adrift in space. (90 mins.)
Director: Alfonso Cuarón
Stars: Sandra Bullock, George Clooney, Ed Harris, Eric Michels
I'm really looking forward to this one. I love Clooney and Bullock. The trailer looks fantastic. I might even go see it in 3D.
Much is expected from:ENDER'S GAME
70 years after a horrific alien war, an
unusually gifted child is sent to an advanced military school in space
to prepare for a future invasion.
Director: Gavin Hood
THE HUNGER GAMES: CATCHING FIRE
Katniss Everdeen and Peeta Mellark become
targets of the Capitol after their victory in the 74th Hunger Games
sparks a rebellion in the Districts of Panem.
Director: Francis Lawrence
THOR, THE DARK WORLD
Gorgeous hero of Viking mythology. Yep, I'll be watching for it.
Faced with an enemy that even Odin and
Asgard cannot withstand, Thor must embark on his most perilous and
personal journey yet, one that will reunite him with Jane Foster and
force him to sacrifice everything to save us all.
Director: Alan Taylor
More science fiction movies are expected in 2014. And further out, a new Star Trek in 2015 and a new AVATAR in 2016.
And if movies are not enough, you can always read sci-fi novels. Who knows, one day they may end up as movies as well. Find mine on the links below.
Vijaya Schartz
Blasters, Swords, Romance
with a Kick
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