A neutron star is on a collision course with Earth. The tremendous gravitational pull of this dense, intergalactic object will rip the planet apart. Fortunately, world leaders have come up with a plan to ensure continuation of humanity, and they have fifty years to do it—time that will be used to fast-track antimatter propulsion technology and send a hundred thousand survivors into outer space in search of a new home.
Garrett Long and his team of astrophysicists have been tasked with this near insurmountable feat. As Exodus begins, Garrett has only five years to perfect his late father’s system, even though the effects of the neutron star have already begun to make themselves known across the planet. Earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, tsunamis, and radiation bursts are just a few of the catastrophic events that delay their progress. But they push on. They have to—because survival of the human race depends on them and them alone.
I am the published author of 12 books, all in the romance genre; everything from time travel, to historical, to contemporary. My newest release, "Checkmate" is the start of my break from the romance genre. It's still classified as a romantic thriller, but truthfully it's more thriller than romance. I'm not saying I won't ever write another romance, especially time travel. I'd have too many upset readers if I didn't. But, for now, I just needed try something new. In fact, my current manuscript, titled "We The People" takes me completely out of the romance genre. But more about that later.
As far as personal info goes, I'm married to my best friend and biggest supporter, Ron. I'm the proud mother of 3, the stepmother of 2, and the grandmother of 10. Next to writing, my passion is community theatre. In fact, I founded our local community theatre back in 1992 and still direct 2-3 shows a year. My other interests include camping, bowling and sitting in a restaurant with a good friend until the wee hours of the morning and talking about anything and everything.
As a Star Trek fan, I found this book entertaining and learned a few things about space travel. They even mention the TV show and its two main characters throughout the book. Even though I am a fan of Science Fiction films and television, I have often found the books difficult to read, as many authors use a lot of technical jargon, and I don't like getting bogged down with the vocabulary. I looked up some of the terminology I found interesting and learned about hydroponics and our solar system. The quick research didn't hinder my enjoyment of the narrative. I am much more interested in a captivating story containing believable characters with depth. This book had both.
The main characters were relatable, and I found myself rooting for them and admiring their strength and intelligence. The protagonist was both intelligent and kind. When he felt horrified by one of the many tragedies, I felt it with him. Moreover, when things went well, and he felt accomplished and happy, so did I. Gratefully, two characters were used for some comedic relief, as the story is quite deep and sometimes disturbing. There wasn't a lot of swearing, but the few times a character did use profanity, it was significant because it demonstrated the emotions this character was trying to convey.
The book is titled [Exodus], which made me think of the bible. There are quite a few biblical symbolic references in the book. The book has an armageddon theme, and its title and symbolism seem apt. The author provided so much detail that it seemed a credible possibility for mankind's future. I thought many passages were foreshadowing but later realized that wasn't the case at all. The story was a hopeful one that gave me faith in humanity. Predictability is boring. I wondered how this adventure would end to the very last page, and I liked that.
This sci-fi read was my first of the kind, and I must say it kept me interested the ENTIRE time. I was hesitant about it since I’m more of a crime novelist but I can’t wait to find another one like Exodus. It was exciting like I was watching a movie/show and I could feel as if I was there. I give this book 5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 10 if it was an option. Definitely recommend!
The author(s) used lopsided scientific knowledge to cover-up the complet lack of deeper thought into how an actual gravitational anomalous force would effect the planet has far has I can see there research notes most of just involved disaster movies.
"Exodus" by Jean Hackensmith and Joseph McDowell is a gripping, well-researched science fiction narrative skillfully weaving scientific accuracy with pressing human feeling. A neutron star racing toward Earth gives the urgency to a story full of complex moral dilemmas, technological innovation, and inspiring leadership. Character arcs, most especially that of President Rebecca McCann, round out the plot to make this work both intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant. A must-read for any science fiction fan!