Starfire: The Mending Book 1
By Stuart Vaughn Stockton
Marcher Lord Press (April 1, 2009)
WHAT CHRISTIAN SCIENCE FICTION SHOULD BE
Is it an allegory? Is it an adventure? Is it weird with a message?
It’s all the above. Stuart Stockton’s debut novel deserves every
bit of acclamation it has received to date. On a planet far, far
away, entrenched in an unforgiving caste system, Rathe, a low-
born Saurian warrior, desires to be a Saurian of distinction. Like
most warriors, Rathe becomes enmeshed in military matters not
of his making. These incidents force him to make decisions that
impact his world, not just himself.
After years of training, Rathe looks forward to his first military
assignment. And on what should be a routine mission, he
stumbles unto an ancient artificial intelligence called Karey Or.
Karey Or believes Rathe is her proector. Rathe and his team
run a race against time as they battle the Herians and the
dreaded jerkranaks.
Through well woven subplots we also feel Rathe’s internal
struggle against his past, a prophecy that spells his doom, and
an introduction to a religion that seems ill-suited for the path he
has chosen. As he struggles to do what’s right within his own
knowledge and understanding, he struggles with the teachings
of The Way, its tenants far more puzzling than any challenge he
had yet to face.
Though the book contains a host of new terminology, Stockton’
s world is so cleverly crafted it is hardly a stumbling block to
the reader. For those who need it, the book does contain a
glossary. However, Stockton’s clever placement of the terms
make them understandable in context. Stockton handles his
complicated world with expertise. While not a human in the
bunch, Stockton has given us a host of characters who will long
be remembered. As well written as the impeccable plot design,
Stockton has shown his gifts both as a literary genius and a
master story teller.
While providing the reader with a clear Christian message, the
tone is far from preachy. Stockton demonstrates the power of
God’s salvation through a well crafted story that holds the
reader’s attention from beginning to end. Can’t wait for the
sequel.
For reprint permission
contact
Linda Rondeau
By Stuart Vaughn Stockton
Marcher Lord Press (April 1, 2009)
WHAT CHRISTIAN SCIENCE FICTION SHOULD BE
Is it an allegory? Is it an adventure? Is it weird with a message?
It’s all the above. Stuart Stockton’s debut novel deserves every
bit of acclamation it has received to date. On a planet far, far
away, entrenched in an unforgiving caste system, Rathe, a low-
born Saurian warrior, desires to be a Saurian of distinction. Like
most warriors, Rathe becomes enmeshed in military matters not
of his making. These incidents force him to make decisions that
impact his world, not just himself.
After years of training, Rathe looks forward to his first military
assignment. And on what should be a routine mission, he
stumbles unto an ancient artificial intelligence called Karey Or.
Karey Or believes Rathe is her proector. Rathe and his team
run a race against time as they battle the Herians and the
dreaded jerkranaks.
Through well woven subplots we also feel Rathe’s internal
struggle against his past, a prophecy that spells his doom, and
an introduction to a religion that seems ill-suited for the path he
has chosen. As he struggles to do what’s right within his own
knowledge and understanding, he struggles with the teachings
of The Way, its tenants far more puzzling than any challenge he
had yet to face.
Though the book contains a host of new terminology, Stockton’
s world is so cleverly crafted it is hardly a stumbling block to
the reader. For those who need it, the book does contain a
glossary. However, Stockton’s clever placement of the terms
make them understandable in context. Stockton handles his
complicated world with expertise. While not a human in the
bunch, Stockton has given us a host of characters who will long
be remembered. As well written as the impeccable plot design,
Stockton has shown his gifts both as a literary genius and a
master story teller.
While providing the reader with a clear Christian message, the
tone is far from preachy. Stockton demonstrates the power of
God’s salvation through a well crafted story that holds the
reader’s attention from beginning to end. Can’t wait for the
sequel.
For reprint permission
contact
Linda Rondeau
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| STARFIRE A Review by LINDA RONDEAU |