Ink and Riffs-August

Ink and Riffs is a regular review series written by me, Citywide Co-Host Max Bowen, to talk about what I’m reading and listening to and why I think it’s awesome. Feel free to send suggestions to citywidemax@yahoo.com.

INK

“Rook: Exodus” (comic)
Published through Image Comics, “Rook: Exodus” takes place hundreds of years from now. The man known as Rook was once a simple farmer who fled the crumbling Earth for a new life on the planet Exodus; a terraformed planet where all of nature, including its imported animal population, was completely controlled by humans called Wardens.

But when Exodus’s world engine failed, the Wardens’ power fell into the wrong hands, creating chaos and mass evacuation…for those who could afford it. The rest, like Rook, must scavenge for an escape vessel as the war for control of what’s left of Exodus begins.

It was the cover that got me into this, but the story is what kept me there. Geoff Johns has written a story that is gripping, intense and very well thought out. It was great to learn more of Rook’s backstory and the technology of the Wardens’ helmets.

Artist Jason Fabok and colorist Brad Anderson have brilliantly crafted a borderline apocalyptic, yet at the same time, absolutely beautiful world. In all, this book was a real thrill to read.

Head to https://ghostmachinepro.com/series/rook-exodus/ for more.

Artifact (audiobook)
I just finished the audiobook version of “Artifact” by Jeremy Robinson and voiced by R. C. Bray. Set in an isolated Alaskan town, the book follows Sheriff Colton as he investigates a secret laboratory where a generative AI capable of “bioprinting” living organisms unleashes grotesque monstrosities.

The book is extremely well written and has a great formula, tension and intriguing characters. Jeremy has created a very creepy, tense story, similar to the master of these tales, Michael Crichton. I just kept listening to each chapter waiting for the next disaster. The description of the different bioprinted creatures was unique in its unsettling nature and I just loved it.

The voicework by R.C. Bray is really amazing and captures the sense of each part perfectly. He really nails each character and gives them a distinct sound that makes it easy to tell them apart. He also projects their moods, whether that’s excitement, fear, or downright terror. A real master at work.

If you need a new listen and want a great story with monsters, creepy labs, all set in the middle of nowhere, check this one out.

Find “Artifact” on Audible through this link.


RIFFS
“More” (music)
“More” by Toronto-based singer-songwriter Bree Taylor is a real powerhouse of a song, with a strong guitar opening that stays there throughout. It’s the kind of song that would have hands raised during the chorus and eyes locked on the stage. An artist to watch to be sure!

Check out https://breetaylor.com for the rest of her music!

“Jack the Lad” (music)
“Jack the Lad” by Robin Shaw is a wonderfully addictive song. I loved the jazzy, big band flow and style, which paired perfectly with Robin’s strong voice. I’m really looking forward to what else the Norfolk-based singer-songwriter has in store.

Check out the rest of Robin’s music on Spotify.

“Broadway” (music)
“Broadway” by J. Henry is a beautifully composed song that blends an array of styles, including theatrical and gospel, to create a story of chasing a dream, no matter the obstacles. It’s a wonderful, heartfelt song that instantly connects with the listener.

Find more at www.theejhenry.com.

“How She’s Got It” (music)
I really loved the building opening and blend of electronic and rock sounds in “How She’s Got It,” by the Italy-based, alternative-industrial rock band Noir Addiction. The song “moves through fragments of memory and shifting emotional states, reflecting on connection, distance, and the subtle erosion of belief,” according to the release, and is part of their new album, “Pretty Things Don’t Last,” out now.

Check out the release of the band’s sound at https://www.noiraddiction.com/.

Five by Five—New tech novel looks at the possible future of AI

By Max Bowen

In his new book, “Quinto’s Challenge,” debut sci-fi author Peter McChesney looks at a world where artificial general intelligence has has remade the world into something complete new.

The book opens with the US President challenging scientists to develop new technology to make resurrection possible. Soon after, a quantum physicist makes the discovery that changes everything—unlocking the power not just to restore life, but to reshape the world. But in the wrong hands, that power could become a superweapon of surveillance and control, changing the world as we know it forever.

In this Five by Five, Peter’s talks about his time in the tech world and its influence on his writing, his take on AI, and resolving the ethical dilemmas of evolving technology.

Tell me about your time in the tech world and the perspective it gave you on artificial intelligence.
I’ve been tech-curious since childhood in Australia, drawn to new gadgets and emerging technologies. That curiosity shaped my career, which spanned roles in cybersecurity, HR tech and autonomous driving.

In the HR space, I helped companies adopt AI-powered hiring tools that supported, rather than replaced, human decisions. Later, I led an organization working on AI-based autonomous driving, helping those systems better interpret the world.

These experiences gave me a front-row seat to AI’s power and limitations. I saw how effective it can be when curated by humans, but also how easily it can be over-trusted or misused.

That perspective shaped “Quinto’s Challenge,” which imagines a future where artificial general intelligence (AGI) has made much of the workforce obsolete, sparking backlash, and where even AGI has been surpassed by “Manufactured Sentience”: androids that think, feel, and act.

What do you see as the ethical dilemmas and how can we resolve these?
Several ethical dilemmas have emerged from the AI revolution. One is the use of personal data and copyrighted material to train AI without consent, something I believe should only happen with explicit permission. Another is the rise of deceptive generative content. In “Quinto’s Challenge,” AI-generated media is regulated, but public trust remains shaken.

The book also explores the societal cost of overreliance on AI, especially how it can diminish creativity, purpose, and genuine growth.

Finally, large language models reflect the biases of those who train them. These tools don’tthink, but rather generate outputs from human-fed data. The more society relies on them, the more power is concentrated in the hands of their creators.

While there are no simple answers, I believe ethical training, smart regulation, and stronger media literacy will all be part of the solution.

What led you to writing a book on the topic and did it further your knowledge?
While AI features prominently in “Quinto’s Challenge,” the story was sparked by something else: the question of whether science could one day achieve the religious promise of resurrection. That intersection of faith and science became the heart of the novel, framed as a presidential moonshot to conquer death itself.

I wanted to explore not just how resurrection might work, but what it would mean for society, politics, and identity. Could it inspire a kind of secular belief in an afterlife?

AI helped me imagine how such a future might unfold, from fully automated construction to universal basic income and sentient androids. While the book is character-driven, it’s also grounded in plausible worldbuilding.

Writing it expanded my understanding of AI’s potential and limits, as well as the ethical and psychological questions we’ll face as the lines between humanity and technology continue to blur.

Tell me about the real life science behind your book.
“Quinto’s Challenge” draws on three major scientific threads. First is quantum mechanics, specifically the principle that information in the universe is never truly lost. The novel explores that principle, specifically by how the memories and personalities of every person who ever lived may still be encoded in spacetime, and how such data might one day be retrieved.

Second is advanced genetics. Today we have the basics of cloning. In the novel, cloning is used to remake the bodies of the deceased once their full genome is obtained.

The third thread is AI. AGI helps reconstruct data from spacetime, but even that falls short. Enter Manufactured Sentience: conscious androids capable of furthering the work (although a neurodivergent physicist ultimately provides the missing breakthrough.).

Other extrapolations include SecondSight, a mixed-reality lens that replaces all smart devices and serves as a platform for both exposition and plot.

Do you see this book as any sort of cautionary tale when it comes to cutting-edge tech?
Absolutely. Technology is power, and power is neutral. How we use it determines whether it uplifts or endangers humanity.

In “Quinto’s Challenge,” the scientific discovery that makes resurrection possible is awe-inspiring. But like the Manhattan Project, it carries dangerous alternate uses, so potent that no government could resist.

That captures the book’s cautionary thread. Whether it’s nuclear energy, political power, or cutting-edge tech, each demands strong ethical safeguards and public accountability.

Quinto’s Challenge asks not only can we do something, but should we? It doesn’t offer easy answers, but it does offer hope: that even in a world reshaped by staggering technological forces, human unity, brilliance, and belief can still work wonders, even the resurrection of the dead.

Ink and Riffs: Daydreams and doomsday scenarios

Ink and Riffs is a regular review series written by me, Citywide Co-Host Max Bowen, to talk about what I’m reading and listening to and why I think it’s awesome. Feel free to send suggestions to citywidemax@yahoo.com. 

Jadelyn, “Daydream Diaries” (music)
I first heard Los Angeles-based Jadelyn’s music when she released “Throw it Back,” and was immediately hooked. When I came across her recent LP, “Daydream Diaries,” I immediately gave it a listen.

The five tracks cover a lot of ground, from “Throw it Back,” a tribute to the best times of yesterday and “Halfway Out the Door,” which touches on love lost that is made all the more painful for all the memories made.

The album title really encompasses the different tales—a musical journal remembering what came before, the things from the past we sometimes think about when something from the present reminds us.

The sound of the album is a slick pop style that shifts around from song to song. The core sound remains in the same lane, but weaves around with a mellow sound to one song and into a real foot-tapper in the next.

I really enjoyed Jadelyn’s vocals—a skillful, melodic voice that’s easy to enjoy. Looking at her discography, she’s been very active since releasing “Hard” in 2020, and her vocals have an essence of experience and passion for the music.

The Sacrificers (comic)
Imagine a world where the sun, moon, water, and more are all kept going by a pantheon of god-like beings. But these are not meant to be immortal dietitians. No, they’re meant to bond, have children, and die, leaving the next generation to take over.

Now imagine how these beings could throw off the shackles of mortality, and what—or who—it would take to make this happen, and what transpires when one supposed sacrifice says “No.”

That’s the world of “The Sacrificers,” an ongoing series from Image Comics, by New York Times-bestselling writer Rick Remender (LOW, DEADLY CLASS, Uncanny X-Force) and artist Max Fiumara (Amazing Spider-Man, FOUR EYES, Lucifer).

I was immediately drawn into this comic by Fiumara’s engaging artwork. The world he creates is powerfully emotional and diverse in its design. From the different forms of the pantheon that we’re introduced to, to the many races of the world, each page has something new and interesting to offer.

But let’s not forget the imaginative story that Remender has given us. The protagonist Pigeon is broken by the world, but still determined to keep moving to protect those most precious to him. The twists and turns are organic and keep the story moving at a strong pace.

Give this one a read—you won’t be disappointed.

Burn to Shine (audiobook)
The latest chapter in the Joe Ledger series by Jonathan Maberry continues in his unique nail-biter of a writing style. I’ve been a fan since the beginning and was eagerly awaiting the new release. Here’s a look at the story that awaits:

A covert group is infiltrating the world’s most secure bio-weapons research sites. All across the country, people are acting as human ‘disease bombs’ by infecting themselves and walking into public places. And heavily-armed groups of illegal private soldiers are massing for some unknown strike.

Joe Ledger and the members of Rogue Team International, still reeling from the devastation and heartbreaking losses of their last mission, are forced into relentless action to try and save the country, if not the entire world.

Old enemies are rising and joining forces to hit Joe and his team with one devastating blow after another. What is the end game for all of this madness and terror? Outnumbered, outmaneuvered, and outgunned, Joe Ledger has to find a way back from the fires of grief in order to make a stand between these enemies and millions of potential innocent lives. But Joe has allies, too. His team, the vicious fighters of Arklight, and friends who may or may not be entirely human.

I opted for the audiobook, though the physical book was also purchased, because Ray Porter is an absolute legend in the world of voice acting. He captures the complex emotions of the story, from the more lighthearted moments to when all seems lost and the darkness is closing in.

One things I’ve loved about Porter’s work is how he does the different voices, which range in tone, race, and gender. He does it all well and it’s clear he spends a lot of time crafting the real-life sound of each character. Check out the entire series, it’s an amazing listen.

Ink and Riffs: Dark dreams and chainsaw music

Ink and Riffs is a regular review series written by me, Citywide Co-Host Max Bowen, to talk about what I’m reading and listening to and why I think it’s awesome. Feel free to send suggestions to citywidemax@yahoo.com.

“Seeing Evil” (book)
This thriller by Jason Parent is centered on Michael Turcotte, a teenager who gains the ability to see the dark futures of others following a violent assault. The visions continue and eventually come to include Fall River Detective Samantha Reilly, who rescued Michael as a child following the deaths of his parents.

Eventually, Michael’s visions get him tangled up in the investigation of a suspected serial killer—one with a chilling connection to Michael and Sam.

This book was just amazing to read and at times I cursed having to go to work. Jason has a unique ability to not only craft a detailed scene, but take us into the minds of his characters.

Through the chapters, we really come to know Michael, Sam, and even the more minor characters and see what makes them tick. It serves to keep the reader hooked as they become more invested in their fates.

Another strong element of the book is the grisly, graphic details that Jason includes. Nothing is left out and this makes for powerfully impactful scenes that leave fans of the thriller and horror genres hungry for more.

“Angels” (music)
I’ve been a fan of the band RinRin since I heard their single “Shadows,” and this album is everything that makes this band my musical addiction.

The music is a great array of rock and metal, with some cool additional sounds layered on. “Angels” is a great opener, a solid musical punch to the face that’s followed up by “ChainsawGirl,” a really intense tune for a lot of reasons. The six-track EP has a lot more to offer, though, with all kinds of different sounds and stories.

“Angels” is a solid offering from a band that’s really hit their stride, and I’ll definitely be checking out the other releases that I’ve missed.

“Deep State” (comic)
Written by Justin Jordan with art by Ariela Kristantina and published by BOOM! Studios, “Deep State”follows John Harrow and his partner Agent Branch, as they investigate weird science, unexplained phenomena and all sorts of X-Files-esque oddities. Just the sort of comic I like to read.

I grew up watching “The X-Files” and “Men in Black,” so this story really got me. I finished the entire collection in a few days, and though it ends on a cliffhanger, I didn’t feel like a lot is left unexplained. I really liked all the different cases Harrow and Branch went on, from a Russian Cosmonaut infected with an alien tech virus to a gun that can fire bullets through time. Really cool stuff.

The overarching storyline of The Control, which runs the agency Harrow and Branch work for, was a cool element that smoothly develops alongside the shorter case files and really comes to a head in the later issues.

The art is really good, with sharp colors and a wide array of designs for the weird science and alien beings. You can tell Kristantina really dove into this and had some fun creating the world of “Deep State.” This comic has been a blast to read and I’m hoping we’ll see a return someday.

Five by Five—“Lifers” explores a world where age really is just a number

By Max Bowen

Let’s face it—getting older can suck.

But what if you could change all that?

In Keith G. McWalter’s new book “Lifers,” we’re introduced to a new technology that can a prolong a person’s lifespan. This creates a new world where the young find themselves in the shadow of their elders and the older are resented for not shuffling off their mortal coil.

In this Five by Five interview, McWalter talks about the world created through this new technology and the societal impacts. He shares the real-life science behind his fictional (for now) tech and whether he’d take advantage of it.

I know I would.


What are some of the consequences of a prolonged lifespan that you explore in your book?
When the aged all over the world stop dying, there’s a brief period of confused euphoria. But then society’s attitudes quickly change. 

First comes resentment, when it becomes clear that the wealth controlled by the aged is not going to be inherited by their children and grandchildren anytime soon – perhaps never – and that younger generations will continue to live in the older generations’ shadow. 

Then comes fear, as it becomes clear that the “young” (called “doublers” in the book, for double-digits, or those under 100) face untold decades more life in a world where youth itself has lost its distinction – that is, its relative immunity to death.

Then, finally, anger, as the failure of the aged to die in the accustomed timeframe puts enormous strains on housing, social services, and national economies, and new political movements arise in an effort to impose “normative lifespans” and “common-good mortality.”

“Lifers” follows a group of age activists as they navigate violent ageism, the politics of scarcity, love rivalries, and dreams of a centenarian utopia in a trans-generational struggle to redefine what it means to be mortal.

How is this prolonged lifespan achieved in your story?
By manipulating the human genome with an artificial virus-like molecule that improves cellular mitochondrial function, rebuilds shortened telomeres, increase sirtuin production, and crafts abnormally high volumes of Daf-2 and Nrf-2 proteins, tricking the cell into behaving as though it’s in a food-scarce environment and slamming on the metabolic brakes.

Just how realistic is this technology? Do you think it’s something we could see in the near future?
All of the background of the longevity breakthrough described in the book is based on actual science, and refers to real people, such as the maverick gerontologist Aubrey de Grey, who was an early trailblazer in conceptualizing aging as a disease that can and should be cured. So it's only science fiction in the sense that the science hasn't quite gotten there yet, but it's coming fast.

While a lot of researchers have recently become more modest in their expectations of when a longevity breakthrough will occur, the futurist entrepreneur Ray Kurzweil, who is 76, believes that if he can live another 10 years, longevity science will extend lifespans for at least a year for every year he lives, thus allowing him and others to achieve longevity “escape velocity.”

Does the book touch on any current issues?
I very much hope that “Lifers” is seen as an anti-ageist screed and a satire on the absurdities of our age-stratified society. I think all of us in western culture are so steeped in ageism, like fish in water, that we’re not even aware of it, though when you grow older, as we all must and I have, you can’t avoid feeling its effects – which are, to be specific, ostracism, condescension, progressive invisibility, forced irrelevance and isolation, to name a few.

The “sequestration camps” that in the book are set up to house the increasing masses of the old are only a short step from the retirement homes and extended care facilities we accept as normal today. The systematic curtailment of the constitutional rights of the aged depicted in the book are not far different from the curtailment of rights that some political figures would like to enact on all of us today, and that are informally but forcibly imposed on the very old. The overt antagonism exhibited by the “doublers” in the book toward the “triplers” is foreshadowed in the dismissal of the old as useless and irrelevant that our current society routinely visits on its elders.

The book also touches on climate change and our current political divisiveness.

Is this kind of technology something you’d want to take advantage of?
Yes, I’m glad to be able to say that I’d want to be a “Lifer.” I’ve had a wonderfully fortunate life and don’t think I’d ever give it up willingly, no matter how long I lived. I also hope I’d be so outraged by some of the backlash against the super-aged that’s depicted in the book that I’d be a Lifer in political terms, too—that I’d ally myself with Marion’s “Lifer Liberation Front” and agitate for change. If they’d have me.

Citywide Bytes: LJ Cohen’s new book seeks to heal a broken world

Our first Citywide Bytes of the new year features friend of the show LJ Cohen for her soon-to-be-released book, “Litany for a Broken World” (Feb. 10). 

In it, three strangers are drawn together in a conflict that threatens not only themselves, but all reality.

In this episode, LJ talks about her characters and the reality-spanning conflict they must face. We go into the development of the protagonists and how they face this challenge. 

“Litany for a Broken World” is the first in a new series and we get a peek at what is next. We also look at the cover art, which is just amazing!

Kicking off the 2025 season with Jonathan Maberry

We’re getting 2025 off to a stellar start with one of the greats of the writing world! Author Jonathan Maberry is a NYT bestseller and 5-time Bram Stoker Award winner. He’s the creator of the Pine Deep Trilogy, V-Wars, Rot and Ruin and of course, the Joe Ledger series among many others.

In our first episode of the new year, Jonathan talks about “Burn to Shine,” the 14thbook in the Joe Ledger series. In this book, a covert group is infiltrating the world’s most secure bio-weapons research sites. All across the country, people are acting as human ‘disease bombs’ by infecting themselves and walking into public places. And heavily-armed groups of illegal private soldiers are massing for some unknown strike.

Old enemies are rising and joining forces to hit Joe and his team with one devastating blow after another. What is the end game for all of this madness and terror? Outnumbered, outmaneuvered, and outgunned, Joe Ledger has to find a way back from the fires of grief in order to make a stand between these enemies and millions of potential innocent lives. But Joe has allies, too. His team, the vicious fighters of Arklight, and friends who may or may not be entirely human.

Sounds pretty cool, doesn’t it? Jonathan, Curtis and Max talk all about the new book, the fights awaiting RTI and some callbacks to characters in past books.

Jonathan also talks about Joe Ledger, what defines this character, and how his trauma over the years has shaped him. We learn what keeps in the fight and why after all these years, he has no plans to back down.

We also talk about the big news that the Joe Ledger series has been optioned by Chad Stahelski, director of the John Wick movies to be optioned for TV development. Jonathan talks about how he and Chad met and the process of working together. We dive into potential actors to play Joe and where we are at in the production process. “Rot and Ruin,” his young adult zombie series, is in advanced development by Alcon Entertainment and we go into how that has come along.

After all these years, working in novels, comics, and much more, one would think that Jonathan Maberry has done it all, and we ask about his “Mount Everest” accomplishments and what else he wants to do in his career.

It’s an unlikely love story with Maria Guglielmo’s new book

Author Maria Guglielmo was last on the show some years back for her debut book, “Summoned,” and since then, she’s been up to quite a bit, including debuting her new “Riftworld” series with “Witch City Rift” and “Rifted Hearts,” which drops on March 19.

Curtis and I talk with Maria about this new series and what went into building the world behind it. We do a deep dive into her main character, Remi Gatti, a con man who seems to find himself in over his head in both stories. 

We look at his power to manipulate sexual desire and the role this plays in the story, as well as the mystical realm that extends into Boston and Salem.

There’s a mysterious figure called The Matchmaker in both books and we talk about just who this person is and how they’re influencing the tale.

Fantasy, children’s lit and more at the Rhode Island Author Expo

The weekend of Dec. 2 saw the return of the annual Rhode Island Author Expo. Citywide host Max Bowen was there to not only emcee the event, but interview some of the great writers who were there.

Kicking off this episode is Nishita Roy-Pope to talk about her new book, “Courage Kids: The Magic Soccer Ball.” It’s her debut book and we talk about how her background in business and as a diversity leader helped prepare her for this new role. Nishita talks about the different characters, how her kids helped with the ideas and what she hopes people take away from the story.

Up next, Ann Watt channels her 30 years as a critical care nurse into a memoir, “When Being a Nurse was Fun.” She shares a few stories from her time as a nurse and what inspired the book. We go into what nursing was like pre-COVID and how the pandemic changed everything.

Keith Carreiro is no stranger to the show, having been on before to talk about his nine-book series, “The Immortality Wars.” This blend of science fiction and fantasy centers on Pall Warren, a 16th-century warrior who wakes up to find himself in the far future. He’s now four books into the series with the release of “The Pilgrim” and we look at how the story has advanced.

Kelly Swan Taylor brings a little mystery to the show with her series “The Wright Detective,” now three books long. Tessa Wright is a seventh-grade student who solve mysteries with her friends. We talk about the main character’s creation, along with how her friends and father—also a detective—factor into the books. Kelly has a new book, “Frozen in Time,” and we talk about the intense plot that awaits.

Maggie Kozel brings things to a close with her book, “My Legs are Crying.” Like Ann, this book is centered on real-life experience in the medical world. Maggie’s book is based on her work with emotional-based illnesses, and we go into what they are and how her work impacted medicine.

David Behling kicks off his comedic sci-fi universe

David Behling

By Max Bowen

You can’t say that David Behling isn’t ambitious.

In early October, he will release “Josh & Sen Save the Multiverse: The Path of One,” part one of a 15-book series. Yep, you read that right.

In this interview, David talks about what kicked off this book, how his own background factored into the worldbuilding, and who Josh and Sen are.

The book will be released on Oct. 3 through Cadence Group. You can learn more at https://joshandsen.com/.

I read that this book is the first of a 15-part series. Was it always your plan to make such a lengthy series?
What a great question! Actually no, I didn’t intend to have 15 projected books when I first sat down to write. Now, I had always intended to write a series. I believe that multiple installments is the only way to adequately develop a universe, and the characters in that universe, without boring the readers to death at any one time. At least I hope I’m not boring them to death!

I planned maybe three or four books. I was originally going to write about a mortal who had gotten serendipitously enlightened to Immortality through accidental exposure to Immortal Ka. He would then go on Immortal Masters' missions to protect mortals from extinction at the hands of diabolical Immortals feeding off of mortal sapients like herd animals ignorant to advance their own cultivations. It still seems cool to me, and, who knows . . . I may still write it someday. But when I started putting words on the screen for this idea, I thought that it was much more interesting to bring an Immortal down to mortality and have them go through the levels of mortal cultivation to Transcendence and beyond . . . And then I decided that these cultivators would need to also save the multiverse . . . As formidable as Josh and Sen are . . . to accomplish these lofty goals, it will take quite some doing. I have them slated for 12-13 books to get through mortal cultivation and two to three books in Immortal Transcendence to get the Multiverse out of trouble.


What can we expect in future books?
Hehe, I am just about finished with the copy edit on the second book: “Karma and Bigger Fish.” Which I plan to release March 2024. When that is done, I will start the developmental edit on the third: “The Lover’s Trove.” Which has been all out of my head and in electrons since mid-July. I am about to start writing the fourth: “Star Child / Void Child.” So, I have pretty good ideas what to expect in these.

In general, Josh and Sen realize that they are just small actors on a much larger cosmic stage. But for some reason, Karma, Balance and Reality have taken notice of Josh and Sophie’s separation, and are actively working to empower Josh enough to reunite them. We will learn that Sophie has a major role in this show as well. We will also see that, as powerful and ‘all knowing’ as Immortals are, they may be subject to the same failings and foibles that we all are. Josh and Sen will advance in general advance in cultivation one step per book. They make new friends, and some new enemies. Josh and Sen will need to clean up some of the trash in their part of the galaxy before it cleans them up. They also learn that they are multiversal persons of interest and will need to continue their growth before some very old and powerful cultivatory monsters decide it is better to be rid of them then to allow Karma and Balance to wreak havoc with the ongoing multiversal plans.

Do you have a plan for how often or when they’ll be released?
Assuming people like reading about Josh & Sen as much as I like writing about them, I plan on releasing a new installment every five to six months.

Let’s talk about Josh and Sen. Where did they come from?
On really good days, sometimes it feels like I’m just recording a story that has already occurred. I know a good deal of Josh and Sen comes from this blessing of the Muses. On top of this, it is true that you write what you know. I know a little about the law, medicine, Chicago, Florida, divorce, science, history, martial arts, being separated from your kids, feeling powerless but not being able to give up, unattainable family expectations . . . a bit about science fiction, fantasy, pop culture and mythology. . . So I would have to say that Josh and Sen came from little parts of this knowledge rolling around inside of my brain and how I apply them in my own life. Much of this is absolutely magnified out of proportion in the books to their actual representation in my life, but definitely from there.

Lastly, at a certain point, the people you are writing about take on a life of their own. If you keep writing about them, their reactions are shaped by how they reacted in their past.

How do the two get along through the course of the book?
Without any spoilers . . . there are some definite rough patches for Josh & Sen. But at their core, each is a good sort and they work through them. By the end of the Path of One, their relationship is moving to what it will become in the remainder of the series . . . brotherhood. They come to depend on each other for more than their skills, powers, and abilities . . . but find in one another a guy they trust and can count on when the chips are down and the light at the end of the tunnel is indeed a train with its brakes out and hauling several boxcars of loose nitroglycerine.

This is your first book. What led you to pursue writing?
The pandemic had a tremendous effect on the entire world. This was particularly true in third-world countries that relied on tourism for their incomes.

In 2021, we were visiting family in Bali, and saw how desperate the people were for help and hope. My wife and I have a tremendous love for the Balinese people so we invested in our local community with time and funds. But, somehow my word-fevered mind wondered what it would be like to have a couple of guys, who in our time of need, would go to the mattresses for us all. It triggered in me the idea of Josh and Sen Saving the Multiverse. So, incredibly, at least to me, I started working on a goal I’d had since I was a kid in high school but had long forgotten. I began writing.

I like how the book is comedic. What’s your preferred kind of humor and how did you weave it into the book?
Thank you! In a group setting, I always find it easiest to laugh at myself. So I aim the humor at embarrassing moments for Josh & Sen in the books. They make pretty easy targets in their own individual ways

Did any aspects of your own life help in the writing process?
According to a study published about 20 years ago, the one quality all medical students share is not intelligence, a desire to help others, or to study science. It is the ability to delay gratification. I suspect that this helps me with writing. When writing, there are no rewards until you have invested a significant amount of time, energy, blood, sweat and tears. In my case, I’ve been writing every day for over a year . . . and I’m still waiting to see if people will like what I offer.

I read in your bio that you’re a “born sci-fi, fantasy, and video game admirer.” Any books or games that inspired you in any way?
Many and many more!

As I’m sure they have for many authors, J.R.R Tolkien’s books, “The Hobbit” and “Lord of the Rings” have inspired me greatly. His way of creating ultimate good vs evil has always made me to want to create my own world also reflecting these qualities.

In the genre of game literature, The 12-book Cradle Series. Will Wight’s broadly sweeping creativity, world building and taking his hero from less than nothing to the heights of absolute, world-shattering power has inspired me to see if I can do the same for my heroes.

But perhaps as much as any of these, Advanced Dungeon and Dragons. I was a kid, in a group of kids that would sit around a table on Saturday afternoons, exploring our imaginations through a world created by one of us. Taking our chances, rolling our dice and seeing how the fates of our characters unfolded. I’m so old that several of our group are now gone. But I can still see our faces over a shared pizza. Excited when we won. Laughing when we lost. Very good times!

Lastly, I have played WoW since its release almost 20 years ago (11/2004). I have been inspired by the depth and richness of the world Azeroth. The intricacy of its quest/story lines. The need to rely on groups to get to the universe's darkest corners and not least of all its humor, some subtle, some not so much.

But read the books and see where else. I’m not very subtle when I steal from any of the hundreds of the movies I have loved watching over the last 50 years!

“The Science Fictionary” defines the undefinable

Author Robert Bly is a longtime fan of—and writer of—the world of horror, fantasy, and science fiction. But what is a black hole? And how does warp speed work? And how many kinds of demons are there?

Robert set on the most epic of quests in “The Science Fictionary,” now available through Crystal Lake Publishing helping reader to understand the unique language of these genres. In this interview, we talk about what inspired this book and how he went about learning the precise definitions for all sorts of words. We look at those that really stumped him and the process of defining words that have been anything but.

We also look at Robert’s lengthy writing career and how this all helped in his research and writing. The book also includes over 50 illustration and we talk about how these came to be.  

It’s a five-part journey into space with “Faraway and Forever”

Science fiction and faith—two topics that, as it turns out, work pretty well together, and my next guest— author, musician, and artist Nancy Joie Wilkie—shows this with her soon-to-be released book, “Faraway and Forever,” a collection of five novelettes. The book is set to be released on July 18 through She Writes Press and is now available for pre-order.

Nancy and I take a walk through the different stories, which range from contact with another world to a planet where wishes are grown. Quite a lot happens in these tales, and Nancy shares with us where the ideas came from and the editor who helped hone them into the final form.

This is her second book with “Seven Sides of Self” published in 2019 and she and I look at how the two books meld together. She also gives a few hints as to what we can expect with “The River Keeper and other Tales,” which is set for a 2024 release.

The stories blend sci-fi, a bit of fantasy and some faith, and Nancy shows how the different elements are woven together. She even shares her favorite story!

Michael Bland’s second book pushes his character to new limits

In Michael Bland’s debut novel, “The Price of Safety,” we’re introduced to Dray Quintero and his mission to save his daughter from a crime she didn’t commit. As intense as that was, things get taken to a whole new level in “The Price of Rebellion.” Here’s a look at the synopsis.

It’s 2047. Secrets have been revealed. And Washington wants revenge. Dray Quintero learned an ugly truth: the leaders in D.C. are fake. Using his technology, they’ve stolen the identities of those duly elected to Congress and are determined to stay in power. After revealing the dangers of their government-mandated implants to his fellow citizens, Dray joins the already-underway rebellion. Before he can strike, The Agency attacks with devastating consequences. Dray and the other survivors are forced to run as Agents hunt them.

Michael and I talk about how Dray has grown as a character from the first book and the challenges that await in the second. We look at how Dray learning his tech has led to the takeover of D.C. affects him and how he manages as a part of the rebellion.

In the future, everyone has a microcomputer in their brains and computer-screen lenses in their eyes. Kind of like what we have now. Michael tells me how current technology and politics influenced that of “The Price of Safety” and what awaits us in the next book.

Rich Woodall talks the state of indie comics and epic horror tales

It was last November at the Rhode Island Comic-Con that I met comic writer and artist Rich Woodall. After a little schedule tag, we got the chance to talk all things comics. Rich's resume in the field is lengthy, and includes working on major titles such as Savage Dragon and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles as well as his many indie creations.

In this episode, Rich and I talk about his work as co-publisher of Black Caravan. An imprint of Scout Comics, Black Caravan publishes horror and sci-fi comics, and we look at the various titles they have out and what is planned for the near future. Rich shares his origins in the comics industry, how he met the folks that gave him his start and the many amazing people he's worked with over the years.

Christopher Sebela shares character designs and worldbuilding for “.Self” comic

BONUS TRACK-Sal Abbinanti releases his cult classic Atomika: God is Red” in omnibus format

It's a dual-comic episode! First up is four-time Eisner-nominated writer, designer, and publisher Christopher Sebela to talk about his newest series, “.Self,” which you can only find on comiXology Originals.

In .Self, Natalie Winters seems to have a perfect life. But when her Postscript account is hacked, Natalie’s backup files are torrented online and people begin making bootleg copies of her. We talk about Natalie's role, the perception of a perfect life and why she's so determined to get it back. Chris also talks about the character-building process and the different personalities he's created in the many titles he's worked on.

Chris also has a Kickstarter for a new title, “Foulbrood” which has him working once again with artist Claire Roe and we talk about the real-life news story that served as inspiration for a series that explores bees, crime and the intersection of bees and crime.

 After that, I welcome back Artist Sal Abbinanti to talk about the upcoming release of the omnibus edition of his classic title “Atomika: God is Red.” He also has a Kickstarter going that runs until Dec. 2. It's already well past its $25,000 goal and we talk about that and the vast list of artists that are contributing to this new edition.

Sal dives into the history of the title and all the challenges he faced when trying to get it published. We talk about the story and the research that went into building it.

Rhode Island Author Expo interviews, Episode 1

Peter O'Donnell

This year marks the big return of an in-person Rhode Island Author Expo. And so, I've been doing interviews with some of the great authors who will be part of the event.

First, Lisa Jacob and I talk about her recently-released book “Carnival Farm,” as well as a series of short stories based on Tarot Cards. We also look at her podcast, Dark Mystic Quill.

Next up is Peter O'Donnell, who was on the show two years ago. He's been busy in that time, putting out the first two books of his “In The Giant's Shadow” series, a blend of thriller and science-fiction elements, and we go deep into the story and future of the series.

Our final interview in this episode is with Christine Lajewski, who has some of the most terrifying horror stories I've ever read. We talk about what makes a good horror story and the short tale she has included in the Wicked Women anthology.

How sweet is to be back at Rhode Island Comic-Con!

Well, the title says it all! On Nov. 5 and 6 I had the chance to reunite with the convention community at one of my favorite events—Rhode Island Comic-Con. I checked out the amazing cosplays, met cool creatives and bought some great merch over the weekend. And of course, many interviews were done.

To start, I met up with Author Coral Isabella Aurora to learn about her new book and the messages about bullying and treating others fairly.

Next, the writers from the comic Starside catch me up on a series I got into two years ago and give a few hints about the story's future.

Cosplayer Stevie Oaks shares his dead-on impersonation of Peter Griffin and what it's been like being at a convention for the first time as one of the guests.

On the convention's second day, I chatted with Wayward Raven founder Mark Frankel about the diverse stories they publish, a special request for submissions, and why in their comics, dead is dead.

Bringing this episode to a close is Khepera Cosplay, who shares how it feels to be back after two years and the various villains she's cosplayed as.

Chris Paniccia talks fantasy books and publishing in a pandemic

BONUS—Zola speaks on courage in the face of bullying in new single


I've known Rhode Island author Christopher Paniccia for years, so it's a welcome sight to have him back on the show. A few years ago he launched a new fantasy series and we talk about the newest novel, “The Dark Kingdom.” Chris walks us through the story, which centers on a young man who learns of his family secret, one that changes his life forever.

This book was recently released, and for artists, the last year has been a hard one in which to put out their work. Chris and I look at his strategy when going to expos and book signings isn't an option.

After this interview, I've got a new single from John Powhida International Airport, “Michael 3 O'Clock.”

Following this interview, Boston's Zola and I take a deep dive into her new single, “Not Like Other Girls.” The song looks at standing up in the face of a bullying friend, and Zola shares what led this to be the theme. We also dive into her style, which blends rock, piano, and synth.

After this interview, kick back and enjoy the new song. I really dug the style and the message is a powerful one.

Joe Aubrey and Eric Peterson introduce us to the Space Bastards

Think the future's always going to be a great place? Prepare to have those expectation shattered with the new comic series “Space Bastards.” Writers Joe Aubrey and Eric Peterson join me to explore the universe that they have created, one in which the Intergalactic Postal Service is staffed by a pack of insane, blood-crazed mercenaries.

We meet Manny Corns and Davey Proton, the two main characters of the series and dive into their origins and some of the potential directions they're going into in future issues (but no spoilers!). We also talk about the artwork by The Boys artist and co-creator Darick Robertson and the process of bringing the story to life.

This is Joe and Eric's first title and we look at the buildup to the release of the first issue earlier this month and their reactions to the many positive reviews.

Stone Star's second season brings the comic to new heights in art and story

It was a year and a half ago when I talked with writer Jim Zub about the ComiXology Originals series Stone Star. A month ago, the second season began and Jim and artist Max Dunbar join me to talk about what we can expect from the story and the many characters.

Jim provides insight into some of the major plot points of Season 1 and how they'll factor into the new season. He also talks about what it means to have a creator-owned series and the directions the team has been able to go with it.

Max and I talk about the unique art of Stone Star, which features some amazing creature designs and landscapes. Max dives into the process behind his work, and some of the more fun aliens he got to make.

Of course, comic-cons have been among the many casualties of 2020, and Max, Jim, and I share some stories from past cons and offer some tips for up and coming artists who want to take advantage of the networking opportunity that these events provide.

Big thanks goes out to Superfan Promotions for arranging the interview. And if you're not already doing so, subscribe to ComiXology Originals for $5.99 a month to get access to thousands of digital comics from companies such as Marvel, DC, Image, Boom Studios, and much, much more.