Return

by Ian Houston

It is the year 2312, and the City covers most of the planet. Street kid David North is a “Super,” but his power – moving strings, wires, and similar things with his mind – isn’t entirely under his control. During a violent altercation with one of the City’s notorious gangs, he is saved from near death by a couple of Super teenagers who are students of an underground scientific research and training facility called Project Arete. David immediately feels a curious connection with one of his saviors—Sarah, a young woman with glowing green bionic eyes. During his recovery at Project Arete’s hospital, David is given the opportunity to join PA and, warily, he takes it. Perhaps there, finally off the City’s streets, he could learn more about his power and how to control it . . . and more about Sarah.
But there is someone who doesn’t want David to get too close to her. And even though he is making lasting friendships, as David spends more time at PA, he discovers things are not exactly what they seem. An ancient mystery is slowly unfurling, and when David finds himself caught up in a 3000-year-old betrayal, he must confront impossible choices to protect the ones he loves. But will his choices doom them all to repeat the mistakes of the ancient past?
The first book in the action-packed Keystone Trilogy, Return takes you deep inside a world where no choice is easy, no answer is the right one, and every step you take comes with great responsibility.

434 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 9, 2024

Reviews

[comrade mum · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don’t read a lot of fiction, so the fiction I do read has high standards to live up to. This book exceeded all expectations.

The world building is executed brilliantly and the story unfolds organically, with a natural cadence that seamlessly weaves our timeline with that of the characters.

Could not put this down. 5 stars, highly recommended.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sci-fi is a genre I don't read very often, but I really enjoyed this book. The author created an interesting world with an unconventional and unexpected mix of superpowers, aliens and Greek mythology. Looking forward to see how this saga continues 😊

[Shwetadutta · Rating 5 out of 5]

Can I give this book more than 5 stars?! It was by far one of the most gripping and emotional I’ve ever read. I recommend this book if you’re getting into sci fi or fantasy genre. It’s a quick and easy read with a bit of everything and packed with action.

[Simo Simic · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great first book in the series and by this author. Good world building and character development. A really creative mix of Greek mythology with sci-fi and fantasy themes. Can't wait for the next one in the series. Highly recommended.

[Ian Houston · Rating 5 out of 5]

But I might be biased. 😁

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read! Really unique take on super powers and mythology. I’m looking forward to the next one.

[Kirsten Simic · Rating 5 out of 5]

Return is such a heartfelt and beautifully told story. It explores the idea of finding your way back to people, to places, and to yourself. it takes elements of Greek mythology and reimagines them in a futuristic world that still feels deeply human. Fantastic read and highly recommend.