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Afua is a promising acolyte of the Shanta Order, on the densely forested planet of Nuafri.
She volunteers to educate orphans – her lively ophanti – every ninth day. When one of her wards goes missing in a dangerous area full of sinkholes and deadly fauna, Afua knows the authorities won’t do anything about a single lost child.
Luckily for the orphan, Afua will.
She is armed only with her knowledge of wildlife, and implanted augmentations that can sometimes deter attacks. But she is not alone. The sentient, insect-like Dooga she has bonded with, named Akalie, will follow her anywhere, despite being heavily pregnant.
An unforgettable Amazofuturist adventure about compassion, courage, and finding your way in life.
Lost Tales of Solace are short side-stories set in the Lost Solace universe.
Note: this work is 100% human-created, crafted with love by the authors. No generative AI has been used in the writing or editing.
She volunteers to educate orphans – her lively ophanti – every ninth day. When one of her wards goes missing in a dangerous area full of sinkholes and deadly fauna, Afua knows the authorities won’t do anything about a single lost child.
Luckily for the orphan, Afua will.
She is armed only with her knowledge of wildlife, and implanted augmentations that can sometimes deter attacks. But she is not alone. The sentient, insect-like Dooga she has bonded with, named Akalie, will follow her anywhere, despite being heavily pregnant.
An unforgettable Amazofuturist adventure about compassion, courage, and finding your way in life.
Lost Tales of Solace are short side-stories set in the Lost Solace universe.
Note: this work is 100% human-created, crafted with love by the authors. No generative AI has been used in the writing or editing.
- GenresScience Fiction
99 pages, ebook
Published August 1, 2024
About the author
Karl Drinkwater
28 books127 followersKarl Drinkwater is an author with a silly name and a thousand-mile stare. He writes dystopian space opera, dark suspense and diverse social fiction. If you want compelling stories and characters worth caring about, then you’re in the right place. Welcome!
Karl lives in Scotland and owns two kilts. He has degrees in librarianship, literature and classics, but also studied astronomy and philosophy. Dolly the cat helps him finish books by sleeping on his lap so he can’t leave the desk. When he isn’t writing he loves music, nature, games and vegan cake.
Go to karldrinkwater.uk to view all his books grouped by genre.
As well as crafting his own fictional worlds, Karl has supported other writers for years with his creative writing workshops, editorial services, articles on writing and publishing, and mentoring of new authors. He’s also judged writing competitions such as the international Bram Stoker Awards, which act as a snapshot of quality contemporary fiction.
DON’T MISS OUT!
Enter your email at karldrinkwater.substack.com to be notified about his new books. Fans mean a lot to him, and replies to the newsletter go straight to his inbox, where every email is read. There is also an option for paid subscribers to support his work: in exchange you receive additional posts and complimentary books.
PRAISE FOR KARL’S WORK
“Drinkwater creates fantastically believable characters.” —On The Shelf Reviews
“Each book remains in my mind for a long time after. Anything he writes is a must-read.” —Pink Quill Books
“Karl Drinkwater has the skill of making it near impossible to stop reading. Expect late nights. Simply outstanding.” —Jera’s Jamboree
“An intelligent and empathetic writer who has a clear understanding of the world around him and the truly horrific experiences life can bring. A literary gem.” —Cooking The Books
“Drinkwater is a dab hand at creating an air of dread.” —Altered Instinct
“A gifted writer. Each book brings its own uniqueness to the table, and a table Drinkwater sets is one I will visit every time." —Scintilla
Karl lives in Scotland and owns two kilts. He has degrees in librarianship, literature and classics, but also studied astronomy and philosophy. Dolly the cat helps him finish books by sleeping on his lap so he can’t leave the desk. When he isn’t writing he loves music, nature, games and vegan cake.
Go to karldrinkwater.uk to view all his books grouped by genre.
As well as crafting his own fictional worlds, Karl has supported other writers for years with his creative writing workshops, editorial services, articles on writing and publishing, and mentoring of new authors. He’s also judged writing competitions such as the international Bram Stoker Awards, which act as a snapshot of quality contemporary fiction.
DON’T MISS OUT!
Enter your email at karldrinkwater.substack.com to be notified about his new books. Fans mean a lot to him, and replies to the newsletter go straight to his inbox, where every email is read. There is also an option for paid subscribers to support his work: in exchange you receive additional posts and complimentary books.
PRAISE FOR KARL’S WORK
“Drinkwater creates fantastically believable characters.” —On The Shelf Reviews
“Each book remains in my mind for a long time after. Anything he writes is a must-read.” —Pink Quill Books
“Karl Drinkwater has the skill of making it near impossible to stop reading. Expect late nights. Simply outstanding.” —Jera’s Jamboree
“An intelligent and empathetic writer who has a clear understanding of the world around him and the truly horrific experiences life can bring. A literary gem.” —Cooking The Books
“Drinkwater is a dab hand at creating an air of dread.” —Altered Instinct
“A gifted writer. Each book brings its own uniqueness to the table, and a table Drinkwater sets is one I will visit every time." —Scintilla
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Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews
October 3, 2024
A short story about a lost ship! Very good!
November 17, 2024
A novella that is connected to the Lost Solace series. Co-authored by one author whose work I am very familiar with and one unknown. Their styles of writing complement each other and make this a novella that was gripping.
The world building was brilliant! It is just as it is in the Solace series. I felt connected to Afua, and her determination shone right through. This is one strong character, and I fully enjoyed my time with her in this vividly detailed setting.
I was so immersed that I read it way too quickly! Yet another fantastic book from the mind of Karl Drinkwater with the addition of Christoffer Peterson. Together, they have created such a great novella.
Thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and both authors for my gifted ebook to write my review
The world building was brilliant! It is just as it is in the Solace series. I felt connected to Afua, and her determination shone right through. This is one strong character, and I fully enjoyed my time with her in this vividly detailed setting.
I was so immersed that I read it way too quickly! Yet another fantastic book from the mind of Karl Drinkwater with the addition of Christoffer Peterson. Together, they have created such a great novella.
Thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and both authors for my gifted ebook to write my review
November 14, 2024
Afua is a fabulous sci fi tale set in the Lost Solace universe. The reader is treated to a strange new world in dazzling glory, and to a strong-willed and determined main character in Afua.
While a novella length story, this is deeply engrossing and I was disappointed to reach the end. It certainly made me want to know more about the Lost Solace universe (I've read the first book). Much is hinted at, and some things are made very clear to the reader. It really does feel as though I've stepped into a fully-formed and functioning location. It is enthralling, and not a little 'weird.'
I thoroughly enjoyed Afua and look forward to reading more of the Lost Solace books.
While a novella length story, this is deeply engrossing and I was disappointed to reach the end. It certainly made me want to know more about the Lost Solace universe (I've read the first book). Much is hinted at, and some things are made very clear to the reader. It really does feel as though I've stepped into a fully-formed and functioning location. It is enthralling, and not a little 'weird.'
I thoroughly enjoyed Afua and look forward to reading more of the Lost Solace books.
November 30, 2024
Having read several books set in the Solace universe, I have really enjoyed the way in which Karl Drinkwater has expanded the overarching storyline. He has co-written Afua with Christoffer Petersen and although it feels less of a space themed book than the previous novellas in the series, it still bears all the hallmarks which keep me returning for more. As each of the Lost Tales novellas are standalones, it isn't necessary to have read the earlier books or the full-length Solace titles. I have a few to catch up with and so Afua was a fabulous reminder of what I've been missing out on!
The world-building here is exceptional; it's worth reiterating that this is a novella but despite its brevity, the vivid descriptions of Nuafri are a delight throughout, particularly regarding the richly imagined (and often very dangerous!) flora and fauna. Readers are also given a solid understanding of the political and social structure of the planet, which is no mean feat considering the drama which also quickly unfolds.
The immersive scene setting at the start is intriguing; as well as giving readers an insight into what life is like on this forested planet, we also begin to understand Afua's augmented abilities and perhaps more importantly, the type of person that she is. Afua is clearly a kind, thoughtful and resolute individual who has been prepared to push back against authority and the expectations placed upon her, and is determined to continue guiding and supporting the orphans – ophanti – in her care. She also has a strong bond with Akalie, a heavily pregnant flying insect-like Dooga. The joyful interactions between the ophanti and Dooga makes what follows even more affecting.
After Afua realises one of her ophanti is missing, she sets off to find him, even after a clash with an elder in the Shanta Order. However, as brutal as this scene is, she is soon in an even worse situation as she becomes the target for one of Nuafri's most dangerous predators.
Karl Drinkwater often excels at creating a tense, claustrophobic atmosphere in this series and that is certainly the case here. As Afua tries to avoid her lethal pursuer, she makes some extraordinary discoveries but at what risk to herself? Alongside the twisty, dramatic plot, there are some occasional chapters written from an outsider's perspective which gives us a fascinating window into how Nuafri is regarded by others; the parallels between how much people in our own world views those who live differently from ourselves is striking here.
With its nailbiting action scenes and some deeply poignant moments, this is a gripping, thought-provoking read, perhaps especially towards the end when Afua has to make a life-changing decision. My only regret was leaving the story here, despite the satisfying epilogue and I would love Karl Drinkwater and Kristoffer Petersen to return to Nuafri in the future as there is definitely scope for further stories to come from such a compelling environment. I enjoyed Afua very much and highly recommend it.
The world-building here is exceptional; it's worth reiterating that this is a novella but despite its brevity, the vivid descriptions of Nuafri are a delight throughout, particularly regarding the richly imagined (and often very dangerous!) flora and fauna. Readers are also given a solid understanding of the political and social structure of the planet, which is no mean feat considering the drama which also quickly unfolds.
The immersive scene setting at the start is intriguing; as well as giving readers an insight into what life is like on this forested planet, we also begin to understand Afua's augmented abilities and perhaps more importantly, the type of person that she is. Afua is clearly a kind, thoughtful and resolute individual who has been prepared to push back against authority and the expectations placed upon her, and is determined to continue guiding and supporting the orphans – ophanti – in her care. She also has a strong bond with Akalie, a heavily pregnant flying insect-like Dooga. The joyful interactions between the ophanti and Dooga makes what follows even more affecting.
After Afua realises one of her ophanti is missing, she sets off to find him, even after a clash with an elder in the Shanta Order. However, as brutal as this scene is, she is soon in an even worse situation as she becomes the target for one of Nuafri's most dangerous predators.
Karl Drinkwater often excels at creating a tense, claustrophobic atmosphere in this series and that is certainly the case here. As Afua tries to avoid her lethal pursuer, she makes some extraordinary discoveries but at what risk to herself? Alongside the twisty, dramatic plot, there are some occasional chapters written from an outsider's perspective which gives us a fascinating window into how Nuafri is regarded by others; the parallels between how much people in our own world views those who live differently from ourselves is striking here.
With its nailbiting action scenes and some deeply poignant moments, this is a gripping, thought-provoking read, perhaps especially towards the end when Afua has to make a life-changing decision. My only regret was leaving the story here, despite the satisfying epilogue and I would love Karl Drinkwater and Kristoffer Petersen to return to Nuafri in the future as there is definitely scope for further stories to come from such a compelling environment. I enjoyed Afua very much and highly recommend it.
November 20, 2024
I read this book as part of a book tour with Rachel's Resources.
I went into this story blind as I had never read anything in the Lost Solace series. I found that this a novella manages to create a rich and vibrant world that you don't need to have the backstory to understand. You become emotionally invested in the story and characters and want more adventures of Afua.
Afua is a promising acolyte of the Shanta Order, on the densely forested planet of Nuafri.
She volunteers to educate orphans – her lively ophanti – every ninth day. When one of her wards goes missing in a dangerous area full of sinkholes and deadly fauna, Afua knows the authorities won’t do anything about a single lost child.
Luckily for the orphan, Afua will.
She is armed only with her knowledge of wildlife, and implanted augmentations that can sometimes deter attacks. But she is not alone. The sentient, insect-like Dooga she has bonded with, named Akalie, will follow her anywhere, despite being heavily pregnant.
An unforgettable Amazofuturist adventure about compassion, courage, and finding your way in life.
Purchase Links
https://books2read.com/b/Afua
https://www.thegreatbritishbookshop.c...
About Karl Drinkwater
Karl Drinkwater writes dystopian space opera, dark suspense and diverse social fiction. If you want compelling stories and characters worth caring about, then you’re in the right place.
Karl lives in Scotland and owns two kilts. He has degrees in librarianship, literature and classics, but also studied astronomy and philosophy. Dolly the cat helps him finish books by sleeping on his lap so he can’t leave the desk. When he isn’t writing he loves music, nature, games and vegan cake.
Website / Newsletter
About Christoffer Petersen
Christoffer Petersen lives in a small forest in Jutland, in southern Denmark. He hasn’t always been Danish; in fact, he borrowed his pseudonym surname from his Danish wife, Jane. Chris writes all kinds of stories in different genres, but is best known for his crime books and thrillers set in Greenland.
While living in Greenland, Chris studied for a Master of Arts in Professional Writing from Falmouth University. Chris graduated with a distinction in 2015. He has been writing full-time since January 2018.
Website / Newsletter
Social Media Links –
Karl is on Bluesky https://bsky.app/profile/karldrinkwat...
I went into this story blind as I had never read anything in the Lost Solace series. I found that this a novella manages to create a rich and vibrant world that you don't need to have the backstory to understand. You become emotionally invested in the story and characters and want more adventures of Afua.
Afua is a promising acolyte of the Shanta Order, on the densely forested planet of Nuafri.
She volunteers to educate orphans – her lively ophanti – every ninth day. When one of her wards goes missing in a dangerous area full of sinkholes and deadly fauna, Afua knows the authorities won’t do anything about a single lost child.
Luckily for the orphan, Afua will.
She is armed only with her knowledge of wildlife, and implanted augmentations that can sometimes deter attacks. But she is not alone. The sentient, insect-like Dooga she has bonded with, named Akalie, will follow her anywhere, despite being heavily pregnant.
An unforgettable Amazofuturist adventure about compassion, courage, and finding your way in life.
Purchase Links
https://books2read.com/b/Afua
https://www.thegreatbritishbookshop.c...
About Karl Drinkwater
Karl Drinkwater writes dystopian space opera, dark suspense and diverse social fiction. If you want compelling stories and characters worth caring about, then you’re in the right place.
Karl lives in Scotland and owns two kilts. He has degrees in librarianship, literature and classics, but also studied astronomy and philosophy. Dolly the cat helps him finish books by sleeping on his lap so he can’t leave the desk. When he isn’t writing he loves music, nature, games and vegan cake.
Website / Newsletter
About Christoffer Petersen
Christoffer Petersen lives in a small forest in Jutland, in southern Denmark. He hasn’t always been Danish; in fact, he borrowed his pseudonym surname from his Danish wife, Jane. Chris writes all kinds of stories in different genres, but is best known for his crime books and thrillers set in Greenland.
While living in Greenland, Chris studied for a Master of Arts in Professional Writing from Falmouth University. Chris graduated with a distinction in 2015. He has been writing full-time since January 2018.
Website / Newsletter
Social Media Links –
Karl is on Bluesky https://bsky.app/profile/karldrinkwat...
November 20, 2024
A highly original and sometimes moving short novella, set on a unique, jungle planet. Afua is a compassionate and courageous young acolyte who really cares for the orphans she teaches every ninth day. She does not hesitate to go in search of one of them when he goes missing. Her little companion, Dooga, s not only extremely loyal but just as courageous, if not even more so. as Afua herself.
Some of the scientific inventions in this fascinating futuristic adventure story are not only amazing but seem quite feasible; the informed, logical way they are described enabling one to accept them without question. I thoroughly enjoyed this short read, which has some very poignant moments, and would recommend it to anyone who enjoys an unusual science fiction adventure with memorable characters.
Thanks to Rachael's Random Resources and the authors for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Some of the scientific inventions in this fascinating futuristic adventure story are not only amazing but seem quite feasible; the informed, logical way they are described enabling one to accept them without question. I thoroughly enjoyed this short read, which has some very poignant moments, and would recommend it to anyone who enjoys an unusual science fiction adventure with memorable characters.
Thanks to Rachael's Random Resources and the authors for the opportunity to read and review this book.
November 15, 2024
I'm reviewing this as part of a tour with Rachel's Random Resources.
This sci-fi novella is part of the Lost Tales of Solace series. I haven't read any of the series before, but I enjoyed reading Afua’s narrative, and I liked how she brought her surroundings to life. I felt that as a reader, I was exploring, and trying to make sense of this unique world, which seemed both dangerous and exciting.
If you are a sci-fi reader, or a fan of this series, this is a page turner and easy to read in one sitting.
Thank you to Rachel's Random Resources, and to the author and publisher, for the opportunity to read and review this.
This sci-fi novella is part of the Lost Tales of Solace series. I haven't read any of the series before, but I enjoyed reading Afua’s narrative, and I liked how she brought her surroundings to life. I felt that as a reader, I was exploring, and trying to make sense of this unique world, which seemed both dangerous and exciting.
If you are a sci-fi reader, or a fan of this series, this is a page turner and easy to read in one sitting.
Thank you to Rachel's Random Resources, and to the author and publisher, for the opportunity to read and review this.
August 17, 2024
What a fantastic addition to the Lost Solace series! I loved the culture and world building, such a fundamental part of the books, with each one so different yet tying together. Even though it's co-written, the unique style of the Solace universe shines through; the authors have done a wonderful collaboration that won't disappoint fans of the series. Highly recommend.
Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews