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The Fall Gauntlet #1
The Fall Gauntlet: BEAR
Benji and Soren will do anything to save their family, but the Crown isn’t going to make it easy . . .
Ten years after his mother was thrown into her off-world prison, Benji finally has a chance to save her. All he has to do is win the Fall Gauntlet, a fight-to-the-death tournament on the planet of Calypso, designed to please the gods and goddesses and keep them at bay. Benji’s success will usher in a new era of science and innovation, and he’s come too far to lose now.
But the Crown is three steps ahead. They’ve orchestrated every move, pushing Benji to the victory that will serve their own agenda. Winning the deathmatch will grant his wish to save his mother, but the Crown has other plans and won’t let go of Benji so easily.
As Benji learns the truth about the Crown’s desires, he is forced to make impossible choices, especially when he learns that his final opponent—the hulking young man behind the bear mask—is his brother, Soren.
J. A. Merkel’s Bear is part of The Fall Gauntlet , a collection of short stories about Benji and Soren’s adventures on the planet of Calypso.
Ten years after his mother was thrown into her off-world prison, Benji finally has a chance to save her. All he has to do is win the Fall Gauntlet, a fight-to-the-death tournament on the planet of Calypso, designed to please the gods and goddesses and keep them at bay. Benji’s success will usher in a new era of science and innovation, and he’s come too far to lose now.
But the Crown is three steps ahead. They’ve orchestrated every move, pushing Benji to the victory that will serve their own agenda. Winning the deathmatch will grant his wish to save his mother, but the Crown has other plans and won’t let go of Benji so easily.
As Benji learns the truth about the Crown’s desires, he is forced to make impossible choices, especially when he learns that his final opponent—the hulking young man behind the bear mask—is his brother, Soren.
J. A. Merkel’s Bear is part of The Fall Gauntlet , a collection of short stories about Benji and Soren’s adventures on the planet of Calypso.
- GenresScience FictionFantasy
76 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 23, 2023
7 people are currently reading
60 people want to read
About the author
J.A. Merkel
8 books88 followersJ. A. Merkel writes speculative and science fiction filled with multiverses and second chances, and his worlds are packed with anti-heroes, love as magic, and tragic reversals.
For Merkel, writing isn’t a chore. It’s a fantastical kingdom with thousands of doors where readers can stumble into their own special adventures, laughing, shouting, and journeying to find home, wherever that may be.
J. A. Merkel burst onto the writing scene with his breakout novella, The Fall Gauntlet: BEAR in summer of 2023, the first of nine stories in his Fall Gauntlet collection. Two months later, he released Book 2, RAT, and 3 months after that, he released Book 3 in the series, CHRYSIX.
In January of 2024, Merkel released The Fall Gauntlet Omnibus, Volume 1, which compiled Books 1, 2, and 3 into one collection. Exactly one year after BEAR's release, Book 4, CONDOR, was released.
Each of Merkel's first four novellas hit the "Top New Release" on Amazon's Science Fiction Short Stories bestseller chart. Part One of The Fall Gauntlet collection will comprise of nine stories and so will Part Two. Books 5 and 6, MANTA and SHARK, respectively, are slated for a 2025 release, as well as The Fall Gauntlet Omnibus, Volume 2, which compiles Books 4, 5, and 6.
In October of 2024, Merkel will release his eagerly anticipated debut fantasy novel, The Fourth Portal, a decade long-project inspired by his adventures and travels living abroad and teaching in South Korea, where he learned something about opening his own fourth portal (if you know, you know).
Many of Merkel's readers enjoy speculating on the easter eggs dropped throughout his series, suggesting theories and possible explanations about the interconnectivity of his universes. Many believe there is always something more complex beneath the surface, and that a larger multiverse looms in the background.
Early reviews for The Fourth Portal have praised the book for it's uniqueness and surprising twists and turns. Reviewers claim it's unlike any book they've ever read, naming it a book with unmatched complexity, with a refreshingly unique premise and story.
The Fourth Portal is the first book in an epic fantasy series called Song of Saudade. Filled with elemental chakra magic, desert adventure, and a multiple POV, ensemble cast, the book imagines a world in which all forms of love are forbidden and punishable by death (love is an actual contagious virus that can kill you).
The series follows a unlikely team of five misfits over the course of seven books, one book to represent each of the seven chakras. Book One, Earth (or Qha since they are technically not on Earth), will be followed by Book Two of the Song of Saudade series, The Other Tribe, slated for a late 2025 release. Fans are eagerly awaiting teasers from Book Two
so they can confirm their theories about how everything ended in Book One.
For those wanting to join the magic, you can sign up for J. A. Merkel’s newsletter on his website, jamerkel dot com, to get exclusive freebies, publishing updates, and a first peek at giveaways!
You can also find applications for ARC Team and Street Team signups in his linktree on his Instagram and TikTok at jamerkel_author.
Merkel prides himself on cultivating a tight-knit, supportive community for those who want to talk about the infinite possibilities of stories and the endlessly healing power of words.
For Merkel, writing isn’t a chore. It’s a fantastical kingdom with thousands of doors where readers can stumble into their own special adventures, laughing, shouting, and journeying to find home, wherever that may be.
J. A. Merkel burst onto the writing scene with his breakout novella, The Fall Gauntlet: BEAR in summer of 2023, the first of nine stories in his Fall Gauntlet collection. Two months later, he released Book 2, RAT, and 3 months after that, he released Book 3 in the series, CHRYSIX.
In January of 2024, Merkel released The Fall Gauntlet Omnibus, Volume 1, which compiled Books 1, 2, and 3 into one collection. Exactly one year after BEAR's release, Book 4, CONDOR, was released.
Each of Merkel's first four novellas hit the "Top New Release" on Amazon's Science Fiction Short Stories bestseller chart. Part One of The Fall Gauntlet collection will comprise of nine stories and so will Part Two. Books 5 and 6, MANTA and SHARK, respectively, are slated for a 2025 release, as well as The Fall Gauntlet Omnibus, Volume 2, which compiles Books 4, 5, and 6.
In October of 2024, Merkel will release his eagerly anticipated debut fantasy novel, The Fourth Portal, a decade long-project inspired by his adventures and travels living abroad and teaching in South Korea, where he learned something about opening his own fourth portal (if you know, you know).
Many of Merkel's readers enjoy speculating on the easter eggs dropped throughout his series, suggesting theories and possible explanations about the interconnectivity of his universes. Many believe there is always something more complex beneath the surface, and that a larger multiverse looms in the background.
Early reviews for The Fourth Portal have praised the book for it's uniqueness and surprising twists and turns. Reviewers claim it's unlike any book they've ever read, naming it a book with unmatched complexity, with a refreshingly unique premise and story.
The Fourth Portal is the first book in an epic fantasy series called Song of Saudade. Filled with elemental chakra magic, desert adventure, and a multiple POV, ensemble cast, the book imagines a world in which all forms of love are forbidden and punishable by death (love is an actual contagious virus that can kill you).
The series follows a unlikely team of five misfits over the course of seven books, one book to represent each of the seven chakras. Book One, Earth (or Qha since they are technically not on Earth), will be followed by Book Two of the Song of Saudade series, The Other Tribe, slated for a late 2025 release. Fans are eagerly awaiting teasers from Book Two
so they can confirm their theories about how everything ended in Book One.
For those wanting to join the magic, you can sign up for J. A. Merkel’s newsletter on his website, jamerkel dot com, to get exclusive freebies, publishing updates, and a first peek at giveaways!
You can also find applications for ARC Team and Street Team signups in his linktree on his Instagram and TikTok at jamerkel_author.
Merkel prides himself on cultivating a tight-knit, supportive community for those who want to talk about the infinite possibilities of stories and the endlessly healing power of words.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
September 9, 2025
Although it’s a short story, Bear is a great introduction to The Fall Gauntlet! J.A. Merkel does an amazing job of quickly and efficiently establishing the world, its characters, and the problems they’ll be facing. The mix of technology and gladiator-style fighting was really cool, so I’m excited to read more and see what happens with these two brothers next!
September 12, 2023
I’m not normally a sci-fi reader but this book might be the start of something new! It’s the perfect short novel to pick up and get lost in on a rainy afternoon. The deep connection between brothers is beautiful & makes it hard to put down.
August 5, 2023
BEAR is the first book in The Fall Gauntlet by J. A. Merkel. BEAR is a short read but packs a big punch leaving its mark on you. BEAR will have you racing to the end to see how it all turns out. The suspense will keep you hanging on page after page.
Two brothers are pitted against each other in a battle for the Crown and their lives. Neither one knows who the other one is under their mask. Well, that it is in the beginning but then one of the brothers learns that he will be fighting his brother. He must find a way to let his brother know who he is. They are fighting to save their parents. They have been working toward this goal for many years.
What will happen if he can’t find a way to let his brother know who he is? The battle is a fight to the death. Will his brother kill him? Will he have to kill his brother? Oh, the suspense, the suspense.
The world-building is just awesome. I could see it all playing out in my head I felt as if I was right there. I felt as if I was the one battling in the arena as I raced to the end.
BEAR is a great read that pulled me in from the beginning and never let go. I can’t wait to read more from this world. BEAR is a great start to a whole new series.
I highly recommend that you give BEAR a try. Grab your copy of BEAR today!
Two brothers are pitted against each other in a battle for the Crown and their lives. Neither one knows who the other one is under their mask. Well, that it is in the beginning but then one of the brothers learns that he will be fighting his brother. He must find a way to let his brother know who he is. They are fighting to save their parents. They have been working toward this goal for many years.
What will happen if he can’t find a way to let his brother know who he is? The battle is a fight to the death. Will his brother kill him? Will he have to kill his brother? Oh, the suspense, the suspense.
The world-building is just awesome. I could see it all playing out in my head I felt as if I was right there. I felt as if I was the one battling in the arena as I raced to the end.
BEAR is a great read that pulled me in from the beginning and never let go. I can’t wait to read more from this world. BEAR is a great start to a whole new series.
I highly recommend that you give BEAR a try. Grab your copy of BEAR today!
September 3, 2023
This was a quick read and I really liked being thrown into the tension right from the start. Merkel is a talented writer and does an excellent job building up to the big moments. You know what his characters are feeling, and he helps you as the reader empathize with them. He sprinkles in backstory when needed without bogging things down. I really enjoyed this and will read the next part of the story "Rat"
November 21, 2024
Action-packed storytelling, a fast pace, and great character depth. Worldbuilding that eases the reader right into a futuristic Gladiator-like place and time. This is a short story, with several stories to follow before the entire plot is told. An impressive start to the series!
August 6, 2023
If you liked Hunger Games and Ready Player One, you’ll love this story. Creative and keeps you on the edge of your seat. Can’t wait for book 2!
February 4, 2025
This was a great novella and a brilliant start to the series. It was such a good read and I enjoyed every word on the page!
The story was really well written. The world building began swiftly and was done well. I think that it worked well as it's a short novella. It has to be swift.
We only had a few characters. Benji, Soren, D and the announcer. Again we only have a limited amount of availability in the novella so it worked well. Benji is the main character with Soren coming a close second. I liked everyone. It was so well done and I loved it.
The novella is only seven chapters long. It's written in first person from Benji's POV. This was all that was needed. More than one POV would have been far too much. So it's another aspect that was done well.
I loved the idea of the use of totem animals. It is something that I find fascinating.
I literally cannot recommend this enough. It was a great start and I am looking forward to reading Rat in the near future!!!
The story was really well written. The world building began swiftly and was done well. I think that it worked well as it's a short novella. It has to be swift.
We only had a few characters. Benji, Soren, D and the announcer. Again we only have a limited amount of availability in the novella so it worked well. Benji is the main character with Soren coming a close second. I liked everyone. It was so well done and I loved it.
The novella is only seven chapters long. It's written in first person from Benji's POV. This was all that was needed. More than one POV would have been far too much. So it's another aspect that was done well.
I loved the idea of the use of totem animals. It is something that I find fascinating.
I literally cannot recommend this enough. It was a great start and I am looking forward to reading Rat in the near future!!!
June 12, 2025
“Bear,” the first novella in The Fall Gauntlet series, is a gripping debut with high stakes and a compelling lead facing a deeply emotional dilemma. It's also a quick but powerful read that you can finish in one sitting—even better!
After his mother was arrested for treason against the Crown (the society’s nameless, faceless ruler), 17-year-old Benji’s only goal is to win the Fall Gauntlet, a tournament to revive the land, whose victor is rewarded one wish from the Crown. For Benji, who wears the mask of a lynx and its powers, his goal is simple—in this final, championship round, he must slay his competitor, the fearsome Bear champion, to receive his wish and use it to free his mother.
But everything goes south when it’s revealed that Benji’s opponent is none other than his little brother Soren, who he hasn’t seen since Crown agents took the rest of his family away seven years ago. Only one can survive the Fall Gauntlet, so Benji must now decide—fulfill his mission to save his mother at the cost of his brother’s life, or die by Soren’s hand and let his years of sacrifice and training be for nothing.
Benji’s arc in this novella is very well done. In the span of 76 pages—a mere week in Benji’s stressful life—he undergoes a shift that sees him turn from an apathetic prisoner to an empowered rebel. His dynamic with Soren is gripping and heartbreaking—one that will catch all of us with siblings right in our sibling feels.
The characters introduced are dynamic and engaging, and the worldbuilding is top-notch. The animal masks and their lore are such an intriguing fusion of magic and science—once a mask chooses a champion, they fight in the Fall Gauntlet until a victor surfaces, and that victor’s animal totem determines the direction of the kingdom for the next several years. (Lynx means advancement in science, for instance, while bear is security and defense against threats.) I’m excited to read more about the masks and to watch Benji’s story continue!
After his mother was arrested for treason against the Crown (the society’s nameless, faceless ruler), 17-year-old Benji’s only goal is to win the Fall Gauntlet, a tournament to revive the land, whose victor is rewarded one wish from the Crown. For Benji, who wears the mask of a lynx and its powers, his goal is simple—in this final, championship round, he must slay his competitor, the fearsome Bear champion, to receive his wish and use it to free his mother.
But everything goes south when it’s revealed that Benji’s opponent is none other than his little brother Soren, who he hasn’t seen since Crown agents took the rest of his family away seven years ago. Only one can survive the Fall Gauntlet, so Benji must now decide—fulfill his mission to save his mother at the cost of his brother’s life, or die by Soren’s hand and let his years of sacrifice and training be for nothing.
Benji’s arc in this novella is very well done. In the span of 76 pages—a mere week in Benji’s stressful life—he undergoes a shift that sees him turn from an apathetic prisoner to an empowered rebel. His dynamic with Soren is gripping and heartbreaking—one that will catch all of us with siblings right in our sibling feels.
The characters introduced are dynamic and engaging, and the worldbuilding is top-notch. The animal masks and their lore are such an intriguing fusion of magic and science—once a mask chooses a champion, they fight in the Fall Gauntlet until a victor surfaces, and that victor’s animal totem determines the direction of the kingdom for the next several years. (Lynx means advancement in science, for instance, while bear is security and defense against threats.) I’m excited to read more about the masks and to watch Benji’s story continue!
October 28, 2025
This is a great first book in the series of The Fall Gauntlet. I loved the story line and the characters. This book is amazing for anyone who loves adventure and who liked The Hunger Games series. I highly recommend this book series.
December 19, 2025
This book was so much fun and I flew right through it. It’s really short so it’s easy to get into and the world building is super interesting and seamless. I liked the brother dynamic because it reminded me of me and my brother. Prose was probably my favorite part because it allowed for so much depth in a very short book. Overall it was great and I would recommend it to most people because it’s so low commitment there’s no reason not to try it out.
September 7, 2025
AMAZING
October 5, 2025
This was a fantastic introduction into the sci-fi world that author J.A. Merkel has built. He weaves together a believable and easily understood setting that is rich in detail and full of life. And even though the book is short, I can tell it’s designed to set the stage for all that is to come with the rest of the series.
I immediately fell in love with our main characters Benji and Soren. Two brothers who will do anything to save their family. But when they are unknowingly pitted against each other in The Fall Gauntlet, the realization dawns on them that there can only be one victor.
Two brothers face off in a death match. Only one can walk away and be granted their wish. Or is there another way to win? Even if that means defying the Crown in order to accomplish both of their goals?
Bear ends on a cliffhanger, so be prepared to grab the next book in the series. I’ve personally become invested in the story, world, and characters, and can’t wait to see where things go from here!
I immediately fell in love with our main characters Benji and Soren. Two brothers who will do anything to save their family. But when they are unknowingly pitted against each other in The Fall Gauntlet, the realization dawns on them that there can only be one victor.
Two brothers face off in a death match. Only one can walk away and be granted their wish. Or is there another way to win? Even if that means defying the Crown in order to accomplish both of their goals?
Bear ends on a cliffhanger, so be prepared to grab the next book in the series. I’ve personally become invested in the story, world, and characters, and can’t wait to see where things go from here!
February 19, 2025
Just wow. The way J.A. Merkel was able to concisely present an engaging YA Sci-Fi dystopian world with complicated conflict, deep themes, amazing visuals and action sequences, all in under 50 pages? AMAZING. This is a masterclass in short stories.
The story revolves around the Fall Gauntlet, an event held every 4 years in which candidates (each represented by a totem animal) fight to the death until one perseveres. The Crown, who overrules New Phasia, then awards the victor a wish. What their totem animal represents will be the Crown's focus for governing the next four years, until the next Gauntlet. In this story we pit two brothers separated when young who are now destined to fight each other representing two different totems.
An excellent quick read. I am already moving onto Book 2!
The story revolves around the Fall Gauntlet, an event held every 4 years in which candidates (each represented by a totem animal) fight to the death until one perseveres. The Crown, who overrules New Phasia, then awards the victor a wish. What their totem animal represents will be the Crown's focus for governing the next four years, until the next Gauntlet. In this story we pit two brothers separated when young who are now destined to fight each other representing two different totems.
An excellent quick read. I am already moving onto Book 2!
April 3, 2024
A quick, imaginative romp
I used to work with Mr. Merkel. When we had to part ways, I promised him I would read his books.
Now I’m glad I made good on that promise. This is only the 1st one, of course, but it’s pretty good! I look forward to reading the rest.
It’s easy to see the influence of The Hunger Games and other stories in this one, but it’s not even close to the same thing. I’ve read many sci fi stories and the universe Mr. Merkel is crafting here is imaginative and quite unlike any other I’ve visited.
I used to work with Mr. Merkel. When we had to part ways, I promised him I would read his books.
Now I’m glad I made good on that promise. This is only the 1st one, of course, but it’s pretty good! I look forward to reading the rest.
It’s easy to see the influence of The Hunger Games and other stories in this one, but it’s not even close to the same thing. I’ve read many sci fi stories and the universe Mr. Merkel is crafting here is imaginative and quite unlike any other I’ve visited.
July 13, 2024
The book was a little to confusing throughout. But that's what keptnit exciting till the end. The confusion increased into the curiousness and reading this realised how much of a computer geek I am.
Benji is such a brain , I can't wait to see how he turns the table. I don't know why but it feels like I can't really trust either of his parents. Of what they will bring in the next books. All in all this book was a great book. My first one in this genre and I would say this was a great start.
Benji is such a brain , I can't wait to see how he turns the table. I don't know why but it feels like I can't really trust either of his parents. Of what they will bring in the next books. All in all this book was a great book. My first one in this genre and I would say this was a great start.
July 31, 2024
BEAR
J.A. Merkel
July 27th - Same Day Finished
Page Count: 46
Genre: Sci-Fi Dystopian
Rating: 5 🌟
Review:
I love how this short, fast paced, action packed sci-fi Dystopian grabbed my attention. Two estranged brother pitted against each other in the Fall Gauntlet. One trying to save their mother while the other is trying to save their father. Benji and Soren must take a stand against the Crown. Giving Hunger Games Vibes! Really enjoyed this book, on to the next book.
J.A. Merkel
July 27th - Same Day Finished
Page Count: 46
Genre: Sci-Fi Dystopian
Rating: 5 🌟
Review:
I love how this short, fast paced, action packed sci-fi Dystopian grabbed my attention. Two estranged brother pitted against each other in the Fall Gauntlet. One trying to save their mother while the other is trying to save their father. Benji and Soren must take a stand against the Crown. Giving Hunger Games Vibes! Really enjoyed this book, on to the next book.
January 10, 2024
I have absolutely loved Bear. I'm looking forward to seeing what happens to Benji and Soren next. The world-building and the characters are fantastic, and I read the whole story in one session.
If the next book in the series 'RAT' is as good, I read it in one go too. If you love short story Sci-Fi I recommend this series.
If the next book in the series 'RAT' is as good, I read it in one go too. If you love short story Sci-Fi I recommend this series.
April 29, 2025
I am always amazed when an author can write an intriguing and complex story in less than 100 pages! We got all the things we look for, characters with a past and a need, a government system they want to bring down, familial connections, and action. This reminded me of the plot in Chain Gang AllStars which I loved. I’m definitely intrigued on where the brothers journey takes them.
October 24, 2025
This premise is really cool and in just 50 short pages it pulls you in. I wish it was a 300 page book where the author goes more in depth on everything. I know it's just the first in a series but this has such cool potential as a full length feature book in my opinion. That being said I enjoyed it and was interested how much story was fit into so little pages without feeling forced.
October 7, 2023
Fast-paced, breath-taking, powerful, and it will leave you on the edge of your seat!
Anchored to the love of family, I’m looking forward to the journey that Benji and Soren will go through to save their loved ones and how the bonds of brotherhood defeats the Crown!
Anchored to the love of family, I’m looking forward to the journey that Benji and Soren will go through to save their loved ones and how the bonds of brotherhood defeats the Crown!
April 28, 2024
Gladiator meets Science Fiction!
What a great, quick read! Chapter one pulled me in instantly. The story was a mix of Gladiator and The Hunger Game vibes, with a great unique sci-fi spin.
Great characters, great plot. Looking forward to reading book two.
What a great, quick read! Chapter one pulled me in instantly. The story was a mix of Gladiator and The Hunger Game vibes, with a great unique sci-fi spin.
Great characters, great plot. Looking forward to reading book two.
May 13, 2024
This book was incredibly well written. Some of the sentence structure took my breath away and I found it hard to put down. I loved the imagery and overall story of two brothers loving each other unconditionally despite being pitted against the other. Bravo!!
August 4, 2023
What a daring and expansive world this new author created! Book one is action packed from the start and had me hanging on to each descriptive word. Excited for what’s to come.
July 21, 2025
Great start to the series! Tons of story packed into such a short book- can’t wait to read the next one!
February 23, 2024
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Reedsy Discovery. I voluntarily chose to read and post an honest review.
Ten years ago, the Crown imprisoned Soren and Benji’s mother for treason. Seven years ago, the Crown jailed their father and separated the two brothers. Now, the Crown is forcing Soren and Benji to fight in the Fall Gauntlet tournament, where only one will win, or so that was the Crown’s plan.
Thanks to D, a guard, Benji was notified his opponent was none other than his brother, Soren the Bear. Benji could never take his brother’s life and had to devise a way to unveil his identity to Soren. Representing the lynx, Benji was a genius when it came to technology. Through his apprenticeship with Master Gherus, he furthered his understanding of the principles of physics and helped develop weaponry and tech for the Crown. He used his knowledge to find a way to break the technologically advanced mask he wore in battle and turn the tables on the Crown.
For sci-fi or tech fans, you’ll love the author’s attention to detail when they describe what the arena sees when looking at the opponents: “two masked humans representing both a bear and a lynx, human-shaped with the ability to walk upright, but phospho-imaged to imitate those beasts, our masks morphing and sprouting hair, and our gauntlets growing retractable claws and fur.” The platform is impressive, as intimidating as the opponent standing before you: one hundred feet off the ground with spikes jutting into the air like giant shark teeth as deadly as a Megalodon’s. Fans of this genre will also love the fighter’s two prime weapons. Lynx carried a 6-foot-long gem staff while the Bear wielded a massive spiked club that could slaughter a whale.
The Fall Gauntlet: BEAR is a non-stop thrill ride featuring exhilarating fight scenes and futuristic tech. It’s a novella I know gamers will want to see made into a game so they can play it for hours and hours. Brother versus brother. It’s a story that would captivate teens and adults on the big screen!
With the humorous final line of dialogue and cliffhanger ending, you’ll be ready to tackle the next book in the series (The Fall Gauntlet: Rat).
J. A. Merkel is a master of imagery and a terrific storyteller. I recommend giving this new series a chance!
(Find more reviews/ratings at www.superkambrook.com)
December 29, 2024
⭐⭐⭐⭐
This novella is the start of what is right now a four novella series about brothers in a dystopian society trying to reconnect after years apart while attempting to change the world they live in. So much worldbuilding happens in such a short period of time in this book, but none of it is overwhelming. If anything, I want to know more about the start of the Crown, how the masks and fall gauntlet originally came to be, and how long it’s all been going on. Are there adults that remember a time before it? I have so many questions because it's a fascinating world.
Everything in this novella is through Benji, the older brother’s eyes. The world, and how the government influences it, haven't gone over his head, but he knows there are only so many possible outcomes. His work on technology has made him what I imagine is one of the few to come to that realization. I hope that, in future novels, we continue to see that. Maybe we even see others recognize it in him through their POVS, like his brother Soren.
A Must Read If You Like
🟩 Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins
🟩 The Technology in The Dividing Sky by Jill Tew
🟩 Strange Masks of All Kinds
This novella is the start of what is right now a four novella series about brothers in a dystopian society trying to reconnect after years apart while attempting to change the world they live in. So much worldbuilding happens in such a short period of time in this book, but none of it is overwhelming. If anything, I want to know more about the start of the Crown, how the masks and fall gauntlet originally came to be, and how long it’s all been going on. Are there adults that remember a time before it? I have so many questions because it's a fascinating world.
Everything in this novella is through Benji, the older brother’s eyes. The world, and how the government influences it, haven't gone over his head, but he knows there are only so many possible outcomes. His work on technology has made him what I imagine is one of the few to come to that realization. I hope that, in future novels, we continue to see that. Maybe we even see others recognize it in him through their POVS, like his brother Soren.
A Must Read If You Like
🟩 Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins
🟩 The Technology in The Dividing Sky by Jill Tew
🟩 Strange Masks of All Kinds
December 3, 2023
I love reading fiction/sci-fi and this checked all the boxes for me! This book was high intensity, well-paced, with family history, political revolutions, and all the *drama*. I found myself being transported to a far off place- that somehow didn't seem so far off with all its logic and world-building. The characters were relatable & I found the story emotionally invigorating. The author does a great job introducing the players with distinct voices, and despite the challenges facing them at full steam, senses of humor as well. I found my next Book Club book (perfect length for more frequently meeting book clubs!) Can't wait for the next release in the series!
September 30, 2025
Bear is a bite-sized, accessible and exciting introduction to The Fall Gauntlet - an action sci-fi series designed to be low risk, high reward for any reader willing to invest in this world.
J.A wastes no time putting us in the shoes (and mask) of our protagonist, and buckle up, as you can be sure the series is only going to get bigger and broader from here!
For fans of present tense, action sci-fi with heart - and supporting indie authors who are in equal parts prolific writers and wonderful people!
J.A wastes no time putting us in the shoes (and mask) of our protagonist, and buckle up, as you can be sure the series is only going to get bigger and broader from here!
For fans of present tense, action sci-fi with heart - and supporting indie authors who are in equal parts prolific writers and wonderful people!
June 28, 2024
All I needed to hear was Super Smash Bros and I was sold.
But really.
A quick read, Bear wastes no time tossing you right into the intrigue and the action. I adored exploring the mask phospho-tech, and getting to know Benji. But what really caught me was the subtle layers of worldbuilding. I barely knew it was happening, but knew exactly the stakes at hand and the threats present. It was brilliant and masterfully done.
But really.
A quick read, Bear wastes no time tossing you right into the intrigue and the action. I adored exploring the mask phospho-tech, and getting to know Benji. But what really caught me was the subtle layers of worldbuilding. I barely knew it was happening, but knew exactly the stakes at hand and the threats present. It was brilliant and masterfully done.
August 2, 2023
What a thrilling first chapter in the Fall Gauntlet saga! Benji and Soren leap off the page with a brotherly bond worth rooting for, and the world of Calpyso is so vivid and imaginative and I want to learn more of what it has to offer. BEAR was a great read and I'm already hungry for Merkel's next short story in this collection!
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