This is an introductory part of a book and should be perma-free. At 168 pages with other volumes already for sale, it barely introduces the politics, the main character, and just sets the stage for the next book; effectively forcing you to buy another book to see if this is your cup of tea. Would I continue the story? Sure - like I said, I enjoyed the introduction to this world. And good news, the rest of the books are longer. (Book 2 - 234 pages, Book 3 - 300 pages, etc.). I was going to rail on this, but I reread the book description and it says this is a short prequel. So, know that in advance. There isn't anything new thus far in the story: Boy becomes man, special abilities, political corruption, and secret societies. Angst, self-doubt, love-interest, challenges. Yup - a recipe for a Space Opera for sure. All this said, it flows well. The pitch: Cris is a telekinetic and heir to the throne of one of the big dynasties (corporations). He has it all, except the respect and love from his parents so he sets out to find himself and ends up being a navigator on a small cargo ship. He has an encounter where latent powers come to bear, and joins the Tararian Selective Service (TSS) to train and understand his special abilities. So far, it reads a bit like Jedi Knights, but it could possibly have a dark side. Luckily Cris has both his hands (still). Fun, quick read.
4 of 5 Stars
From the Publisher:
Cris Sietinen, heir to the most influential High Dynasty in the Taran empire, was born with rare telekinetic gifts--abilities he refuses to ignore, regardless of the governing Priesthood's decrees. Determined to be true to himself, and test the limits of his prohibited abilities, sixteen-year-old Cris escapes his stifled life of business and politics on Tararia to begin a new life exploring the stars.
When Cris unexpectedly receives an invitation to join the Tararian Selective Service (TSS), the only organization to offer a sanctioned telekinesis training program, a new future awaits. It's his dream opportunity to be among people like himself, free from the Priesthood and political objectives. Except, Cris' path was designed, and he's right where the Priesthood wants him.
Architects of Destiny is the first installment in the complete, seven-book Cadicle series, a modern-day space opera epic in the spirit of Golden Age science fiction. This fast-paced space adventure with intrigue, coming-of-age, and romance is a short prequel to the defining events in Tararia's history in the ensuing years.
