THE MARTIAN PATRIARCH – A reluctant hero finds himself entrapped between a dystopian Earth, its rebellious Martian colony, and an enigmatic alien presence haunting his soul. There is no way out except to fulfill his incredible destiny.
This is a compelling story of interplanetary relations in the late 21st century that projects a disturbingly provocative view of humanity. Earth, ravaged by numerous political and environmental crises, attempts to maintain control over its thriving and culturally independent Martian colony. When the protagonist unwittingly becomes embroiled in the dispute, his life transforms into the critical focal point of a great historic conflict. The subplot is a deep psychological study of the main character who is torn between his own conflicting emotions and various external forces that are both known and unknown. After decades of turmoil, tragedy, and momentous achievement, he finally discovers himself in a most astonishing climax.
This novel is available in paperback and ebook (no longer available) versions, and can be purchased through the usual retail outlets.
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YESTERDAY’S CHILD – The tribulations of a future theocracy built upon a false premise.
Imagine western civilization being ruled by an autocratic theocracy legitimized by a single historical document. Imagine the social unrest that would result if new archaeological discoveries undermined that foundation. Imagine the fate of high-ranking officials should such an upheaval brought down the established order.
This is the theme of a short story sure to challenge conventional beliefs. Set in the futuristic 22nd century, it is a tale of how this scenario leads to the demise of an eminent and honorable bishop. His fall from grace is juxtaposed against another cleric who is much better able to deal with the radical changes.
http://www.pikerpress.com/article.php?aID=6530
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THE DAYDREAM GIRL – Do extraterrestrials play marital games?
Cover story blurb from the publisher (The Piker Press): “Five different stories, one constant in all of them — a mystery that begs to be solved … will the memories come clear enough for justice to be served?”
This story is the author’s tribute to Ray Bradbury, who showed us how to step outside our usual perceptions and experience the infinite wonder that is everywhere to be found.
http://www.pikerpress.com/article.php?aID=4989
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THE UNFORTUNATE RECORDER – An undercover observer must choose to either obey his alien orthodoxy, or save his very human family from annihilation.
The interstellar judgment is in for mankind’s fate on Earth, and it’s the worst one possible – immediate extermination. Unfortunately for the agent who was assigned to record the documentary evidence, protocol requires him to return home and abandon his cherished family. However, his obedience is complicated by the fact that he has developed real human emotions after taking on the physical disguise of human form.
This is a frightening and touching story that offers readers an opportunity to ponder some age-old questions about the meaning of life and existence.
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FEARS OF THE KING – A powerful royal monarch is confronted with an existential threat from above.
Are human beings truly superior? Are its political leaders really in charge? If not, can the general public be kept in the dark? This flash fiction story explores these questions and more.
https://thesecularjurist.wordpress.com/2014/11/30/fears-of-the-king/
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A BOY AND HIS GOD: WHEN SCIENCE MEETS RELIGION
In the ancient past, a catastrophic flood leads a teenage boy to struggle for survival and to question his traditional polytheistic beliefs. His ordeal results in the establishment of a new monotheistic culture, but for all the wrong reasons.
https://thesecularjurist.wordpress.com/2018/02/07/a-boy-and-his-god-when-science-meets-religion/
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