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Brightstar: Energematrice6 – The Epimyth Begins
“Only the void is content to wait in peace.” Brightstar is the beginning of an epic space adventure that introduces readers to Nate, a boy desperate to escape the prison of an ordinary life made unbearable by his autism. When he is unexpectedly transported to another universe, Nate’s perceived disability is transformed into a near superpower. In the Aurora Galaxy, where his arrival has been prophesied for thousands of years, Nate finds the weight of expectations difficult to bear. After being greeted by an ancient ally, Nate begins gathering a misfit group of “odds” from every corner of the universe. Nate’s odyssey, which starts in the most prestigious school in civilization, will end battling monsters from the darkest imaginations of an ancient, captive Earth.
Coping with greater and greater adversity, Nate finds himself confronted by enemies who all seem to be connected in suspicious ways. In the end, Nate must stand before the Lightmaker Himself, who sent Nate to the Aurora Galaxy in the first place. Brightstar is the beginning of a myth in the tradition of authors like C.S. Lewis, written to introduce young people to the most important stories and values of Western Civilization. Rich language and an epic story provide the backdrop for an exciting, yet thoughtful space fantasy.
Coping with greater and greater adversity, Nate finds himself confronted by enemies who all seem to be connected in suspicious ways. In the end, Nate must stand before the Lightmaker Himself, who sent Nate to the Aurora Galaxy in the first place. Brightstar is the beginning of a myth in the tradition of authors like C.S. Lewis, written to introduce young people to the most important stories and values of Western Civilization. Rich language and an epic story provide the backdrop for an exciting, yet thoughtful space fantasy.
214 pages, Paperback
Published April 16, 2024
About the author
Jared N. Michaud
4 books11 followersJared N. Michaud is a devoted fiction writer driven by a passion for writing that began before he reached age seven. Influenced by literary giants like C.S. Lewis and Orson Scott Card, he discovered the transformative power of storytelling, and at twelve he began crafting his first novel.
Today, Jared writes from a little house in a little town in Wyoming, where he lives with his wife and seven children. As a Christian with a deep love for the truth and appreciation for the values that underlie Western civilization, he endeavors to create myths that will inspire future generations.
Today, Jared writes from a little house in a little town in Wyoming, where he lives with his wife and seven children. As a Christian with a deep love for the truth and appreciation for the values that underlie Western civilization, he endeavors to create myths that will inspire future generations.
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
December 19, 2023
4.5/5 - Uplifting and interesting with robust worldbuilding, and extra fun if you've studied the New Testament at all.
So here's the deal: I'm not this book's target audience. Rarely do I read sci-fi. That said, I met the author at a local event, found myself really interested in his pitch, and ended up taking an ARC copy to review. And I'm glad I did. Even though I'm not very interested in Sci-Fi, I still found myself enjoying it, and I feel like that says a lot!
I loved that the main character, Nate, was autistic, and that what was previously a 'disability' became his superpower. The supporting characters were also interesting and well-rounded, which isn't easy to do (and he did it in a relatively small amount of words relative to the usual of the genre, so major kudos!!) There are many things I was still curious about at the end of the book world-wise, because it hints at a very richly-built universe and I feel like we only see the very tip of it in this book. That said, Michaud makes it very clear that there will be more books in the series, so I'm content to wait.
One of the coolest things about this book for me as a Christian was recognizing all the fun parallels to the New Testament and life of Christ. If you're NOT a Christian, no worries: it's written in such a way that it can appeal to a much wider audience. Similarly to Narnia, it's allegorical but can also just be enjoyed as a fun story. But as someone who has studied Christ's life quite a bit, it was REALLY fun for me personally to see all the proverbial easter eggs Michaud snuck into this book.
All in all, a well-written, intriguing, uplifting read. If you're a fan of C.S. Lewis, you might find it interesting. If you like sci-fi, you might find it interesting. And if you're in that wonderful part of the venn diagram where both those interests overlap, you should DEFINITELY pick this up.
So here's the deal: I'm not this book's target audience. Rarely do I read sci-fi. That said, I met the author at a local event, found myself really interested in his pitch, and ended up taking an ARC copy to review. And I'm glad I did. Even though I'm not very interested in Sci-Fi, I still found myself enjoying it, and I feel like that says a lot!
I loved that the main character, Nate, was autistic, and that what was previously a 'disability' became his superpower. The supporting characters were also interesting and well-rounded, which isn't easy to do (and he did it in a relatively small amount of words relative to the usual of the genre, so major kudos!!) There are many things I was still curious about at the end of the book world-wise, because it hints at a very richly-built universe and I feel like we only see the very tip of it in this book. That said, Michaud makes it very clear that there will be more books in the series, so I'm content to wait.
One of the coolest things about this book for me as a Christian was recognizing all the fun parallels to the New Testament and life of Christ. If you're NOT a Christian, no worries: it's written in such a way that it can appeal to a much wider audience. Similarly to Narnia, it's allegorical but can also just be enjoyed as a fun story. But as someone who has studied Christ's life quite a bit, it was REALLY fun for me personally to see all the proverbial easter eggs Michaud snuck into this book.
All in all, a well-written, intriguing, uplifting read. If you're a fan of C.S. Lewis, you might find it interesting. If you like sci-fi, you might find it interesting. And if you're in that wonderful part of the venn diagram where both those interests overlap, you should DEFINITELY pick this up.
December 3, 2024
If your a sci-fi enthusiast and like a unique story with interesting characters, check this new series starter out!
The story had a slow start to it, but the last half of the book picked it up quite a bit and I was turning the pages to see what happened. Even though the main character is a 12 year old, I think it may be geared more for an older teen. The themes would be enjoyed at middle grade age but I felt that the scientific terms and sci-fi jargon would be hard for a younger age group. I do appreciate that the author had a glossary in the back of the book.
I really liked the elements of faith in the story, it wasn't over abundant but flowed well with the story. I liked the different abilities given to the characters and I liked the representation of a child with autism who gets to go to a planet that gives him a new perspective.
*Thank you to the author for a complimentary copy of the book. All thoughts are my own.
The story had a slow start to it, but the last half of the book picked it up quite a bit and I was turning the pages to see what happened. Even though the main character is a 12 year old, I think it may be geared more for an older teen. The themes would be enjoyed at middle grade age but I felt that the scientific terms and sci-fi jargon would be hard for a younger age group. I do appreciate that the author had a glossary in the back of the book.
I really liked the elements of faith in the story, it wasn't over abundant but flowed well with the story. I liked the different abilities given to the characters and I liked the representation of a child with autism who gets to go to a planet that gives him a new perspective.
*Thank you to the author for a complimentary copy of the book. All thoughts are my own.
November 26, 2023
Sci-fi, fantasy, horror, this short entry to the Epimyth has it all. Excellent world building, interesting characters, intrigue and hints of something much more? I can't wait for future installments!
January 19, 2024
This is the beginning of an amazing story, while I am a dungeons and dragons addict I took this plunge into sci-fi not knowing what I was getting myself into.
I do not regret it.
The story building of Brightstar is hardcore focused, you can tell from just the first half of the book that the author is building a world.
They go into a lot of depth and explanations about everything.
The ending had me wondering where this adventure goes. And I look forward to the next.
Double win, the character roster and glossary in the back.
As someone who has a hard time remembering the minute details this was a huge help.
I do not regret it.
The story building of Brightstar is hardcore focused, you can tell from just the first half of the book that the author is building a world.
They go into a lot of depth and explanations about everything.
The ending had me wondering where this adventure goes. And I look forward to the next.
Double win, the character roster and glossary in the back.
As someone who has a hard time remembering the minute details this was a huge help.
November 30, 2023
I had the fortune of meeting the author at a local library event, and bought an autographed copy. That was on Saturday . . . and I finished it yesterday. Yup.
So anyways, the review. I haven't read much science fiction (okay, like none), so I don't really have anything to compare it to except the stories my brother and I come up with. But the world Jared's created here feels very real, very established (very spooky!) - it has a whole history with the Escape from Earth and the Keeper and everything, even though you don't read much about that.
The story feels a bit confused at first - and maybe that was just me, since I started reading late Monday night - but it's also sort of a reflection of how the main character Nate feels, being suddenly transported to an alternate universe. It does get clearer as things go on (for Nate as well as the reader), and the ENDING!! The part in the Behemoth wreckage with Resolute and the Changed . . . GAH, that was AWESOME.
Nate. I feel like this kid is really on his way to becoming a rising star (pun not intended) in fiction. He's autistic - he see the world differently, and it's this fact that makes him such a powerful force in the universe he's transported to. He makes a very likeable Chosen One: he doesn't step confidently into the role saying "yep I was born for this", but neither does he try to dodge the responsibility. (Because personally I find it annoying when a Chosen One spends most of their time trying to avoid their calling.) Towards the end, after the battle with the Changed, he comes to a realization that he needs the Lightmaker's help to succeed, and he's been using his power really for himself. (I think we can all relate to you there, buddy.)
(And Keevan. Can we have a shout-out for this kid? He's funny and likeable from his first page. I love his Aussie accent (I assume it's Australian?) and I kinda knew all along
Energematrice6, the power that Nate and others can access, is interesting. It's almost like magic, but at the same time not, since it can't be used (if I'm understanding correctly) to cast spells or anything like that, though it can be used for mental telepathy and similar functions. As a power, it's neutral in itself, it can be used for good or evil depending on who wields it.
Now I'll be honest, I don't usually like it in SFF when an author renames God, as if He was just another character. I can understand the reasoning behind it, but it makes me uncomfortable, and I just don't feel it's necessary. But I actually prefer a name like Lightmaker over a character-type name. Don't ask me why, I just feel better about it.
Overall a good exciting story! The ending is left unfinished, but that's because it's the first book in a series. (I'm hoping? *hint hint* Jared, can you confirm this?) I like the pronunciation guide and brief history/definitions in the back - I wish more authors did this.
One of my favorite things is the dedication: "For Christ, who will always be my hero."
Anyways, enough from me. I'll let you read the story yourself while I go hunt up the space allegory I started working on.
So anyways, the review. I haven't read much science fiction (okay, like none), so I don't really have anything to compare it to except the stories my brother and I come up with. But the world Jared's created here feels very real, very established (very spooky!) - it has a whole history with the Escape from Earth and the Keeper and everything, even though you don't read much about that.
The story feels a bit confused at first - and maybe that was just me, since I started reading late Monday night - but it's also sort of a reflection of how the main character Nate feels, being suddenly transported to an alternate universe. It does get clearer as things go on (for Nate as well as the reader), and the ENDING!! The part in the Behemoth wreckage with Resolute and the Changed . . . GAH, that was AWESOME.
Nate. I feel like this kid is really on his way to becoming a rising star (pun not intended) in fiction. He's autistic - he see the world differently, and it's this fact that makes him such a powerful force in the universe he's transported to. He makes a very likeable Chosen One: he doesn't step confidently into the role saying "yep I was born for this", but neither does he try to dodge the responsibility. (Because personally I find it annoying when a Chosen One spends most of their time trying to avoid their calling.) Towards the end, after the battle with the Changed, he comes to a realization that he needs the Lightmaker's help to succeed, and he's been using his power really for himself. (I think we can all relate to you there, buddy.)
(And Keevan. Can we have a shout-out for this kid? He's funny and likeable from his first page. I love his Aussie accent (I assume it's Australian?) and I kinda knew all along
Energematrice6, the power that Nate and others can access, is interesting. It's almost like magic, but at the same time not, since it can't be used (if I'm understanding correctly) to cast spells or anything like that, though it can be used for mental telepathy and similar functions. As a power, it's neutral in itself, it can be used for good or evil depending on who wields it.
Now I'll be honest, I don't usually like it in SFF when an author renames God, as if He was just another character. I can understand the reasoning behind it, but it makes me uncomfortable, and I just don't feel it's necessary. But I actually prefer a name like Lightmaker over a character-type name. Don't ask me why, I just feel better about it.
Overall a good exciting story! The ending is left unfinished, but that's because it's the first book in a series. (I'm hoping? *hint hint* Jared, can you confirm this?) I like the pronunciation guide and brief history/definitions in the back - I wish more authors did this.
One of my favorite things is the dedication: "For Christ, who will always be my hero."
Anyways, enough from me. I'll let you read the story yourself while I go hunt up the space allegory I started working on.
October 17, 2024
Amazing world building. Nate finds himself in another universe. Will his autism cause him complications in the new world, or does it give him an advantage. This science fiction/fantasy story will take you on a journey of good vs evil.
June 29, 2024
Fun book. I found it neat that you could find reflections of the bible.
December 5, 2023
Review of Brightstar: Energematrice6, The Epimyth Begins
I have had the pleasure of reading the above-named novel by Jared N. Michaud. This is his first novel, but I predict that it will not be his last. I am a big fan of imaginative storytelling, and this book is a generous serving of that with a mix of science fiction, supernatural abilities, and dare I say magic? It pictures a future of the human race that is no longer tethered to an Earth-bound existence. Humans have finally broken the restrictions that we presently have upon our ability to search the stars for new worlds through advanced space travel. However, that is just the background for the main story which concerns Nate, an autistic boy who is also blessed with supernatural abilities of which he is only just becoming aware. The world in which Nate finds himself is infused with an energy known as Energematrice6-hence the middle part of the title of the book. Energematrice6 [pronounced En-er-gem-uh-tris Six according to the helpful glossary in the back of the book], is according to its definition provided is the power that was used to create the universe to which Nate has been transported via that same power. E-6 (which is my shorthand for the actual name), is an energy that humans can use to manipulate both matter and space through its six fields which are also explained in the glossary. Also included is a character roster which can be found before the glossary at the end of the book.
I am endeavoring to give a good framework for this wonderful book without providing too much detail that might spoil the story for others who find they have an interest in reading it. Nate, after being transported to this universe, finds that he is missing much of his memory of his life before his arrival although throughout the book, he regains memories bit by bit, he learns about E-6 and his role in using it to fulfill a prophecy that was made eons before his arrival. Nate is joined by several companions, all of whom have some measure of E-6 that they can use in what becomes a time-honored battle of evil vs good. While that battle is an honored foundation from which many tales, many imaginations, many stories have been launched, it is still a foundation that puts both writer and reader in a solid place from which to let their minds roam.
The writing in this book is concise, interesting, though provoking, and I found it to be refreshing and easily read. I breezed through the entire book, with a few interruptions for things like eating and sleeping and playing with my grandsons, in just two days. I hesitate to put any limits on its appeal and so will say that I think this book would appeal to a broad age range from pre-teen to those like me who are more seasoned readers. Anyone who has an interest in science fiction and/or fantasy will find this book to be one that they like, in my humble opinion. So, if you are looking for an engaging way of stepping out of our world for a bit, I encourage you to buy this book and give it a try. Since the title posits that this is just the beginning of this story, I am excited to see what future books hold for anyone, who like me, becomes a fan.
I have had the pleasure of reading the above-named novel by Jared N. Michaud. This is his first novel, but I predict that it will not be his last. I am a big fan of imaginative storytelling, and this book is a generous serving of that with a mix of science fiction, supernatural abilities, and dare I say magic? It pictures a future of the human race that is no longer tethered to an Earth-bound existence. Humans have finally broken the restrictions that we presently have upon our ability to search the stars for new worlds through advanced space travel. However, that is just the background for the main story which concerns Nate, an autistic boy who is also blessed with supernatural abilities of which he is only just becoming aware. The world in which Nate finds himself is infused with an energy known as Energematrice6-hence the middle part of the title of the book. Energematrice6 [pronounced En-er-gem-uh-tris Six according to the helpful glossary in the back of the book], is according to its definition provided is the power that was used to create the universe to which Nate has been transported via that same power. E-6 (which is my shorthand for the actual name), is an energy that humans can use to manipulate both matter and space through its six fields which are also explained in the glossary. Also included is a character roster which can be found before the glossary at the end of the book.
I am endeavoring to give a good framework for this wonderful book without providing too much detail that might spoil the story for others who find they have an interest in reading it. Nate, after being transported to this universe, finds that he is missing much of his memory of his life before his arrival although throughout the book, he regains memories bit by bit, he learns about E-6 and his role in using it to fulfill a prophecy that was made eons before his arrival. Nate is joined by several companions, all of whom have some measure of E-6 that they can use in what becomes a time-honored battle of evil vs good. While that battle is an honored foundation from which many tales, many imaginations, many stories have been launched, it is still a foundation that puts both writer and reader in a solid place from which to let their minds roam.
The writing in this book is concise, interesting, though provoking, and I found it to be refreshing and easily read. I breezed through the entire book, with a few interruptions for things like eating and sleeping and playing with my grandsons, in just two days. I hesitate to put any limits on its appeal and so will say that I think this book would appeal to a broad age range from pre-teen to those like me who are more seasoned readers. Anyone who has an interest in science fiction and/or fantasy will find this book to be one that they like, in my humble opinion. So, if you are looking for an engaging way of stepping out of our world for a bit, I encourage you to buy this book and give it a try. Since the title posits that this is just the beginning of this story, I am excited to see what future books hold for anyone, who like me, becomes a fan.
November 27, 2024
Updating with full review.
2.5/5 rounded up
This science-fiction book is maybe a "not the right time" book for me on this read.
Characters: 3/5 - I didn't get to really get to know the characters as much as I'd like to. Just as we were starting to learn about them, the focus shifted.
Atmosphere/Setting: 2.5/5 - I wanted so much more here. It felt like we were just touching the tip of the surface here - literally. Needed so much more in both atmosphere (it didn't really feel different as we shifted ships/planets/locations) and setting.
Writing Style: 2.5/5 - This book took a lot of focus from me to get through. Not necessarily because it was bad, but because I was sick at the time and didn't have a lot of focus in general. I wonder if I would respond differently had I not been sick with COVID.
Plot: 3/5 - Maybe it was a me thing, but I felt like I had to work hard to find the plot here. There was a plot, it just wasn't as clear (until the end) as I prefer. My personal preference is to have the plot be somewhat clear about half way through the book, I didn't get that here.
Intrigue: 4/5 - Because a lot of things weren't very clear, and our MC was learning as we were (or so it seemed)... I was very intrigued on our characters, where we were going with this. I had a lot of curious questions, which for the most part were answered by the end.
Logic/Relationships: 2/5 - This was the hardest one for me. Not a lot of explicitely explained, so I was hard for me to make logical sense (or maybe that was my sick brain?). Relationships were very much surface level type of relationships. We didn't really go deep into any one relationship.
Enjoyment: 3/5 - Overall, I enjoyed the experience of reading this book. I do wonder if I'd enjoyed it more if I weren't sick and was able to read it with a different brain in a sense.
Total: 20/7 = 2.8/5 stars.
I was provided a copy of this book from the author in exchange for consideration of an honest review.
2.5/5 rounded up
This science-fiction book is maybe a "not the right time" book for me on this read.
Characters: 3/5 - I didn't get to really get to know the characters as much as I'd like to. Just as we were starting to learn about them, the focus shifted.
Atmosphere/Setting: 2.5/5 - I wanted so much more here. It felt like we were just touching the tip of the surface here - literally. Needed so much more in both atmosphere (it didn't really feel different as we shifted ships/planets/locations) and setting.
Writing Style: 2.5/5 - This book took a lot of focus from me to get through. Not necessarily because it was bad, but because I was sick at the time and didn't have a lot of focus in general. I wonder if I would respond differently had I not been sick with COVID.
Plot: 3/5 - Maybe it was a me thing, but I felt like I had to work hard to find the plot here. There was a plot, it just wasn't as clear (until the end) as I prefer. My personal preference is to have the plot be somewhat clear about half way through the book, I didn't get that here.
Intrigue: 4/5 - Because a lot of things weren't very clear, and our MC was learning as we were (or so it seemed)... I was very intrigued on our characters, where we were going with this. I had a lot of curious questions, which for the most part were answered by the end.
Logic/Relationships: 2/5 - This was the hardest one for me. Not a lot of explicitely explained, so I was hard for me to make logical sense (or maybe that was my sick brain?). Relationships were very much surface level type of relationships. We didn't really go deep into any one relationship.
Enjoyment: 3/5 - Overall, I enjoyed the experience of reading this book. I do wonder if I'd enjoyed it more if I weren't sick and was able to read it with a different brain in a sense.
Total: 20/7 = 2.8/5 stars.
I was provided a copy of this book from the author in exchange for consideration of an honest review.
November 13, 2024
This is a great read with a lot of attention to detail, I believe it can captivate the interest and attention of many age groups, the author has done a great job in setting the scene and creating a stage in the readers mind, if your into space and sci-fi you’ll have your thirst quencher for sure, facing one’s past to move forward is biblical and does a great job in honoring God through this read!! Get yourself a copy today!! You won’t be disappointed!! Thank you brother Jared for your obedience to God and willingness to serve in this way!! May God bless your future writings and family abundantly!!
December 1, 2024
What a great space fantasy story with a lot of action. A boy named Nate was having a bad day. What happened next threw him into a world of chaos and confusion. Until he finds out his true purpose, he’s learning along the way. The people he meets are part of his journey and together they are fighting for the greater good. I really enjoyed this book and how the author’s descriptions really help you picture the story in your mind. I’m looking forward to reading book 2. I highly recommend reading this book.
November 28, 2024
Retarded kid gives himself a concussion on purpose, goes into a coma and has a nice dream.
July 7, 2025
It was super slow at first, and I struggled. But then it got CRAZY and I couldn't stop! Definitely looking forward to the other books in the series.
December 3, 2025
Like it a lot!
Love the story, but is so fast paced at times that I got kinda lost like five times. All in all five out of five!
Love the story, but is so fast paced at times that I got kinda lost like five times. All in all five out of five!
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews