Beyond Tomorrow's Sun: A Novel of the Future

Beyond #1

by Ronald McGuire

A young boy flees a desperate situation and finds a new home, a new family and epic interplanetary adventure.



"...a fully original sci-fi mythology...vividly rendered and suspenseful...tonally similar to the Hunger Games and Divergent series...enjoyably akin to works like the Ender's Game novels and Valerian comic series..." - Launchpad Prose Competition



Set in a post-war 24th century America, 13-year-old Charlie runs away from his abusive uncle, following an old road he hopes will lead him to the ocean. Along the way he's joined by a lost dog, Katie, and fights for survival in the wastelands. When Charlie reaches the end of the road, he discovers the thriving and technologically advanced city of Arcadia, where he saves the life of head-strong Becca Kiel, after her illicit journey through a wormhole lands her in the middle of a busy street. Charlie settles into a new life, and his friendship with Becca grows, until their destinies become intertwined as they dream of finding a new home for humanity, somewhere among the stars. But a Colonial Rebellion and violent space pirates conspire against them, leading them to risk everything for long-shot mission to find a new home for humanity.



"Beyond Tomorrow's Sun" explores the meaning of home and family, and a young boy's search for both, on Earth, and beyond.

285 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 1, 2024

About the author

Ronald McGuire writes smart, high-stakes science fiction with heart, mystery, and adventure - stories that explore what it means to face the unknown and find your place in it.

Reviews

[Mana · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Beyond Tomorrow's Sun" by Ronald McGuire transports readers to a vivid, imaginative 24th-century America, set in the aftermath of a devastating war.

The story follows the journey of 13-year-old Charlie, who flees his abusive home life, fueled by dreams of reaching the ocean. Along the way, he faces numerous perils but finds solace in an unexpected friendship with Katie, a lost dog who becomes his steadfast companion. Together, they brave the harsh realities of a barren world, embodying resilience and grit.

The story's atmosphere is beautifully rendered, contrasting Charlie's bleak beginnings with the vibrant city of Arcadia he eventually stumbles upon. Arcadia symbolizes hope and technological progress, teeming with possibilities that starkly juxtapose the wastelands Charlie traverses. This backdrop not only provides a stage for adventure but also represents the potential for renewal and growth.

One of McGuire's greatest strengths lies in character development. Charlie is portrayed with depth; his vulnerability and bravery resonate with readers, forging a strong emotional connection. His bond with Katie adds weight to his journey, highlighting themes of loyalty and survival. Becca Kiel, who joins the narrative later, is equally captivating. Her tenacity and sense of adventure make her the perfect foil to Charlie’s character, creating a dynamic duo that propels the story forward.

The writing style is easy to digest and engaging, enabling readers to easily connect with Charlie's experiences. McGuire masterfully blends action with introspection, allowing moments of tension to breathe while delving into the characters' emotions.

Themes of family, belonging, and the pursuit of a brighter future are subtly woven into the narrative, encouraging readers to ponder their own definitions of home.

While "Beyond Tomorrow's Sun" offers a thrilling ride filled with excitement and heart, certain aspects could use further refinement. The pacing sometimes feels hurried, particularly during Charlie's transition from his escape to life in Arcadia. More thorough world-building would deepen readers' understanding of this future society and its intricacies.

Despite these minor drawbacks, McGuire delivers a heartfelt tale that harmonizes adventure with poignant themes.

Readers will find themselves wholeheartedly invested in Charlie and Becca's fates, making this book a valuable addition to any young reader's bookshelf.

[Gillian Casso Speicher · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is an imaginative and vivid look at an America devastated by war. Told through the eyes of Charlie who escapes an abusive home life and takes to the road in search of a new life. He not only finds Katie, a dog that saves him in more ways than one, but a family (The Bimmey’s) and a new home. The Bimmey’s raise him to be a kind, strong and emotionally intelligent young man and at a young age realizes that he wants to join Space Force. The lessons in Space Force teaches him how to lead effectively and to take calculated risks when necessary. When the opportunity arises to provide a better future for humanity, he risks everything to follow his heart.

Navigating the complexities of life and his surroundings, Charlie is an astute young man who tackles problems head on. He is an engaging and likable character, and brings an unexpected depth to the story. I truly enjoyed his interactions with the other characters. I also loved the pacing of the story. It flowed really well and I liked how it moved swiftly through the different time periods of Charlie’s life. I want more set in this world.

Thanks to Ronald McGuire for a copy of this book.

[Meerab · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Joining Space Force was my dream, but I knew nothing about war.
During the worst of it, all I thought about, every day, was ‘I hope my family is safe.’ It saddens me to think about the families who won’t get to welcome
their loved ones home again. I wish we could have found our way to peace sooner.”

I had never read sci-fi before this and I didn’t know what to expect. But I had a lot of fun reading this book. The campaigns against space pirates and interactions on board were very fun to read. Charles Bimmy is a likeable character with empathy and yeah I just liked how he pursued peace instead of outright destroying enemies. The side characters were nice too. I really liked the planet discovery and exploration at the end. However, I wish it was a little longer. The book was great overall, bur some things felt a bit rushed. The starships were cool and all that physics talk made me feel so smart:)

[Ainslie · Rating 5 out of 5]

✨ Beyond Tomorrows Sun ✨ 


Rating: 10/10


I loved this short novel by Ronald McGuire. 

In this novel you will follow the journey of 13 year old  Charlie who has decided to run away from his abusive uncle after living with him for several years as his parents died. Charlie spends most of his time finding old scrap that he can sell to make money for his journey for a better life. On the road to a new life he meets Katie, a small dog, who joins him in fighting for survival. Later on through the journey we meet a girl named Becca who is saved by Charlie. Together they work as a team to find a new home for Humanity as Space pirates work against them!! 



This is a great wee read and definitely for sci-fi and adventure lovers!! This book gives you ups and downs, friendship, survival and hope!! I didn't find myself being bored and found the pace quite nice and steady! ☺️

[Criminal Venture Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

Balancing studies and leisure is tough, but this book was worth every minute. Charlie’s resilience and determination are inspiring, and the sci-fi elements provided a much-needed escape from daily stress. Highly recommend for anyone needing a break from reality.

[Ivan · Rating 4 out of 5]

First of all, I would like to thank the author for sending me the e-book and giving me the opportunity to do my first ever requested review. It feels awesome and, in some way, feels like an honor.

I usually prefer reading with a book in my hand, but this actually gave me the chance to use my Kindle for once, which also I actually enjoyed.

Now on to the book:

The story is set in a world where earth is slowly deteriorating with a limited population, and where people have started to colonize other planets, taking what resources can be found and in a way trying to find a way to live as life was on earth not too long ago, focused on survival.

Our main character Charlie Bimmy runs away from his terrible living conditions at the age of 13, use to a harsh life and an abusive uncle. He meets a dog along the way Katie, whom he immediately builds a strong bond with the pup which carries throughout his whole life.

Aiming for the ocean he sets foot in a city called Arcadia where after a few incidents he is adopted and starts on following his dreams joining the Space Force. As he ages he becomes very close to Becca Kriel who develops to be his one and only love.

They are separated as she is off to study and Charlie's dreams come true, he is accepted into the Space Force where his intellect, instinct and ability to read every situation helps him climb the steps within the Force.

The book focuses on a variety of themes, from escaping an abusive childhood, to focusing on your dreams. The author did an amazing job in creating the scenes, in putting you in the crafts and battles alongside Charlie, in feeling the emotions that came along with him.

My only comment to add (I'm a sucker for an origin story) is that if we had just a bit more of Charlie's childhood I would have seen a bit more development, but hey we try to escape our past to grow.

My favorite quote used in the book was based on the space wars that took place: "A true soldier fights not because he hates what's infront of him but because he loves what is behind him"

Space based novel's aren't really my thing or where my interests lie at all, I usually get confused and lost but in all honesty I really enjoyed this one. And it's a book I would fully recommend.

[Roy Harper · Rating 5 out of 5]

McGuire's depiction of future space exploration is both imaginative and grounded in plausible science. The challenges faced by Charlie and his companions mirror the complexities humanity might encounter as we venture beyond our home planet. An insightful read

[Julie Porter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Spoilers: Ronald McGuire’s Beyond Tomorrow's Sun is not by any means a long book, but through the exhaustive journey of its protagonist, it covers in only a few short years what seems like a lifetime.

Charles begins his story in a post-Apocalyptic world when unexpected circumstances force him to go on the run far from his negligent uncle, his only remaining blood relative. He survives in the wilderness with his newly found dog, Katie. Charles’ travels take him to a nearby city where he reunites Katie with her former owner’s parents, Henry and Rose Bimmey. When they hear about Charles’ history and especially about the lack of care from his uncle, Henry and Rose decide to adopt Charles. The young boy matures and falls in love with Becca, a scientist's daughter. He then enlists in the Space Force and takes to the stars where he has to face war, hostile colonists, ruthless space pirates, unstable fellow soldiers, the potential destruction of Earth, and relocation to another world.

Like I said a lot happens to this young man. So much so that the book shifts through various genres and subgenres to tell different aspects of Charles’ story. The first half is an Apocalyptic survivalist novel which puts him against natural elements and the harsh wilderness. While there, he learns many of the things that become useful later on in his Space Force career.

Earlier, he was appalled watching an acquaintance get killed in front of him. While on the run, he ends up killing someone in defense of himself and Katie. He realizes that sometimes people have to do tough things to protect those around them. Survival sometimes requires the breaking of previous codes. Whether it's right or wrong, in a dangerous situation, one doesn't always have the luxury of thinking before acting.

That's not to say that Charles becomes a thoughtless machine who only acts on impulse. In fact, he retains a great deal of thought and understanding when he enters the city. This turns the book from one person's struggle and survival into a coming of age story about him finding a family, romance, a path in life, and a sense of belonging.

He protects and cares for Katie on his own so she is able to lead him to her family. Charles gives The Bimmeys crucial information that he remembered through observation and navigation about their missing son. He also shares their grief, compassion, and tenderness so well that he is instantly accepted as one of the family.

He also finds love with Becca and a higher sense of purpose. Originally, Charles was someone who did not fully understand science or sociopolitical structure. He was interested in joining the Space Force, basically to get off the planet. But after listening to and understanding Becca's family’s interest in wormholes, he begins to study the sciences connected to them. He also recognizes both his and Becca's family's connections to political and military leaders and the way they think and operate. These studies become crucial to his experience in attending the Space Force.

After his journey through Space Force, the book becomes a high tech Science Fiction Military Thriller and contains some of the more thrilling sections in it. His studies, survival instincts, and understanding of how other people think, feel, and react help him get promoted at young ages. They especially come into play when he has to weigh whether he should understand the point that rebellious colonists make against the Earth government or treat them like an enemy that must be destroyed before they destroy him and his crew.

Charles also gains a firm grasp and understanding in the minds of his adversary’s minds in dealing with pirate Gemma Chang. She is an alluring elegant beguiling figure with an analytical understanding of others’ actions and plans so Charles has to outfight and outthink her to take the advantage. On a personal note, I found Gemma Chang a fascinating and intriguing character and would love to learn more about her. Perhaps, McGuire could create a spin-off or a short work about her exploits and journey to space piracy.

The Space Force chapters lead into the final act, where the book becomes an Interstellar Travel which involves saving humanity from self destruction. This is where Charles’ survival skills, intellect, Space Force training, empathy, amd understanding-everything that he has learned has to come into play because he not only has to find a new world but survive in it. It's a parallel to his first journey in which he had to travel into the wilderness with a trusted companion. Here he has to do the same but on another planet where the landscape is completely unknown. It seems as though everything in Charles’ life led to this path and destination.

The various pieces of the book fit to create a mosaic of Charles' ascension into adulthood, leadership, and founder of a new world.

[Coffee Book Couch by Ava · Rating 5 out of 5]

Let me just start by saying: this book blew me away. I knew I was in for something special when I read the synopsis, but I didn’t expect to be so moved, so drawn in, and so emotionally invested from beginning to end. Ronald McGuire’s Beyond Tomorrow’s Sun is a gem—a rare mix of heartfelt emotion, thought-provoking sci-fi, and deeply human storytelling.

We meet Charlie, a 13-year-old boy living in a fractured version of 24th-century America. The world has clearly been through its share of trauma, and so has Charlie. From the very first chapter, McGuire builds a vivid sense of desperation and quiet strength. Charlie’s decision to escape his abusive uncle isn’t just the start of his physical journey—it’s also the beginning of something spiritual. There’s a rawness to him that feels very real, and watching him walk through barren landscapes with only a loyal stray dog for company is both heartbreaking and deeply touching.

Enter Becca Kiel—quite literally from another world. Her appearance via wormhole changes the tone of the story in the best possible way. She’s bold, sharp, and full of fire. Her energy contrasts Charlie’s solemn resolve beautifully. Their relationship is what grounds the book—it never slips into melodrama or forced dynamics. It’s friendship with teeth. Trust built under pressure. Two kids from wildly different backgrounds trying to hold onto something good.

Arcadia, the technologically advanced city they eventually reach, is fascinating without being overwhelming. McGuire knows how to write science fiction that enhances the story without drowning it in jargon. The tech is imaginative and plausible, but it never becomes the focus—because this isn’t a book about machines. It’s about people.

That said, the world-building is excellent. Post-war Earth feels desolate but not hopeless. You can feel the silence of abandoned towns, the dust of forgotten roads, the strange calm of a broken planet. Then there’s the larger galactic context—space colonies, rebellion, pirates—that adds a sense of scale without losing intimacy. Everything is big, but never distant.

What really impressed me is the emotional maturity of this story. It's not afraid to sit with sadness. It doesn’t rush to solve every problem or sugarcoat what the characters have gone through. And yet, despite all the darkness, the book is full of light. Charlie and Becca aren’t just survivors—they’re visionaries. The dream of a better future, of a life beyond war and pain, is what keeps this book moving forward.

The writing itself is clean, lyrical at times, and always purposeful. There are no wasted scenes. Every moment deepens character, expands the world, or tightens the emotional thread.

By the time I reached the final chapters, I was completely hooked. The tension, the emotion, the sense that something huge was on the line—it all builds beautifully. And when it ended, I didn’t want to leave.

Final thoughts:
This is the kind of book that makes you pause. Makes you think. Reminds you why science fiction matters—not just for its big ideas, but for the very small, fragile, beautiful ways it reflects the human spirit.

Beyond Tomorrow’s Sun deserves a place on your shelf.

[Celeste Wilson · Rating 5 out of 5]

A space exploration by a man who face childhood trauma but who evolved into Earth’s fighting chance.
A coming-of-age story
The book is set in post-war 24th century America. Earth is in bad shape and most people left on the planet think that earth is dying. War is still a very real threat between earth and trading colonies on nearby planets.

If you love Science Fiction steeped in science real or imagined, then this is the perfect series for you. The story moved, twisted and turned. Characters developed at a comfortable pace and relationships were relatable. There is a lot of heart in this book which is not something I expected from a story about earth and its rivals.

As a young boy of 13, Charlie had already witnessed more suffering than most adults do in a lifetime. When his friend is murdered trying to protect him, he decides to run away. He isn’t leaving much behind. Only an abusive uncle who is his last living relative. Charlie had no idea where life would take him. Along the way, he is forced to defend himself and kills a man in search of food. Charlie is traumatized and tries to get as far away from the incident as possible.

His luck changes when he finds Katy, a stray dog, who follows him. The dog leads him to an accident scene. Once again Charlie is faced with death. Katy becomes his constant companion and becomes Charlie’s emotional confidant. We learn that the dog belongs to the young boy killed in the accident and when Charlie reaches the nearest town, he helps the parents, the Bimmeys, find their child.

This is where Charlie finally finds a home. The Bimmeys take Charlie in and raise him as their own. While Charlie learns about love and acceptance, he also grows into an intelligent young man with a strong moral compass. He is devoted to his new family and long-time girlfriend Becca. When he enrolls in Space Force, no one questions it.

He becomes a strong leader within Space Force and climbs the ranks quickly. He builds a reputation as an officer who takes calculated risks until he finally takes it too far. But, Charlie wants peace and he is prepared to risk it all to find it for himself, Katy and Becca.

[Paige · Rating 3 out of 5]

In a future America after a big war, 13-year-old Charlie runs away from his abusive uncle, hoping to find the ocean by following an old road. Along the way, he meets a lost dog named Katie, and they struggle to survive in a ruined world. When Charlie reaches the end of the road, he discovers the futuristic city of Arcadia and saves a brave girl named Becca Kiel after she accidentally ends up there through a wormhole. Charlie starts a new life in Arcadia, and his friendship with Becca grows. Together, they dream of finding a new home for humanity in space. However, a rebellion and space pirates threaten their plans, forcing them to take a dangerous chance to secure a future for humankind.

Review: Beyond Tomorrow’s Sun by Ronald McGuire
Rating: ★★★ (3.4)

This book offers an engaging mix of survival, friendship, and space exploration, though it has some ups and downs. The pacing is steady but can feel uneven at times, especially when shifting to future years. The plot is solid, with a compelling journey of hope for humanity’s future, but the conflict with space pirates feels underdeveloped. The characters, Charlie and Becca, are interesting but lack depth, making them less memorable despite their strong bond. However, the writing is excellent, with vivid descriptions and an immersive world that keeps readers engaged. Unfortunately, the cover doesn’t capture the story’s essence. Overall, it’s a promising read for fans of post-apocalyptic and space adventures.

[Carola Schmidt · Rating 5 out of 5]

This one surprised me. On the surface, it’s a futuristic adventure with the usual sci-fi ingredients—wormholes, space colonies, rebellion—but there’s something quieter and more human underneath all that. At the center of it is Charlie, a 13-year-old kid escaping abuse and trying to find some version of peace in a broken world. The pacing is steady, never rushed, and there’s a strong emotional pull, especially in the relationship between Charlie and Becca.

What worked for me was how grounded the story stayed, even with the interstellar stakes. Charlie’s bond with Katie (the dog) was simple but real, and Becca’s presence brought energy without becoming a cliché. Their connection isn’t romanticized; it’s two young people figuring out how to survive and maybe hope again.

The quieter moments—wandering through empty towns, small conversations under strange skies—hit harder than the space battles, which I didn’t expect going in.

It’s not flashy sci-fi. It’s more thoughtful than that. If you’re looking for something that combines quiet resilience and just enough wonder to keep you thinking past the last page, this is worth picking up.

[Carl R · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book hit me in all my happy sci-fi places. I loved the development of the MC, Charlie, and his fight for survival with a ride-or-die dog by his side. It's like mad max for the first third, if Max were 13 and riding on an e-bike. It's essentially a coming of age novel, until it isn't - then it becomes a sort of space opera/romance hybrid (without the spice), then there's the interplanetary war, and ultimately...well, no spoilers! I'll just say I love the idea abandoned places, and leave it at that. The characters are so well drawn, they almost leap off the page at you, especially Charlie and...okay, I have to stop or I'll give it all away. I would not have picked this one up, I'm so glad my brother gave it to me for Christmas. What a fun read - I can't wait for the next one.

[Amanda · Rating 3 out of 5]

I went into this book thinking it was a dystopian and then all the sci fi was thrown it. I didn’t hate it.

The characters and plot were pretty interesting. I do wish that some things were fleshed out more. The dystopian Earth seemed so interesting and I wish we had more of that than the sci fi.

The book was moved really fast. You’d read a chapter and the next was a few years later but without a header saying so.

This book might be appropriate for younger adults if parents talk to them about parts since it does have a lot of violence.

[Dynisha Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

If the beginning of this story doesn't hook you, I Don't know WHAT to tell you! This was such a fun and compelling story, following Charles from where we find him into adulthood. As a character there is an integrity and depth that I admire. I would definitely recommend this one!

[CHenry Roi · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a canine enthusiast, I was deeply moved by the bond between Charlie and Katie. Their relationship adds a heartfelt dimension to the story, reminding us of the unwavering loyalty and love our four-legged friends offer. A touching narrative that resonates deeply.

[Tyler Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Omg this book was sooo awsome! Charlee is such a cool dude and his dog Katy is adorbs. The space stuff was a bit confuzing but still rly cool. Def recomend!