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Humanity's Leap #1
Species Seventeen: Book 1 of Humanity's Leap
Book One of
Humanity’s Leap
.
An alien artifact is discovered by an artificial intelligence owned by a small, autonomous mining corporation operating in the asteroid belt. After extensive reverse engineering, Galactic Planetary Resources develops technology that propels humanity to expand rapidly beyond Earth over the next sixty years. These advancements ultimately lead to another astonishing a transit gate hidden in Earth’s solar system for thousands of years—and now, it can be used.
A cast of engaging, well-developed characters aboard the corporate starship Audacious discover more than they ever dreamed possible, including the revelation that this isn’t the first time humanity has ventured into the stars.
A team of United Earth Hegemony Marines, led by Staff Sergeant Dixon, is requisitioned to assist Captain Rohit Mishra, scientist Irina Orlova, and others as they push the boundaries of what humanity can achieve—while trying to convince Earth’s government to let them do it.
Narrated in first person by CAIPARR, the sentient artificial intelligence owned by GPR, the novel explores the ethics of artificial intelligence, humanity’s existential beliefs, and the age-old should we do something, simply because we can?
An alien artifact is discovered by an artificial intelligence owned by a small, autonomous mining corporation operating in the asteroid belt. After extensive reverse engineering, Galactic Planetary Resources develops technology that propels humanity to expand rapidly beyond Earth over the next sixty years. These advancements ultimately lead to another astonishing a transit gate hidden in Earth’s solar system for thousands of years—and now, it can be used.
A cast of engaging, well-developed characters aboard the corporate starship Audacious discover more than they ever dreamed possible, including the revelation that this isn’t the first time humanity has ventured into the stars.
A team of United Earth Hegemony Marines, led by Staff Sergeant Dixon, is requisitioned to assist Captain Rohit Mishra, scientist Irina Orlova, and others as they push the boundaries of what humanity can achieve—while trying to convince Earth’s government to let them do it.
Narrated in first person by CAIPARR, the sentient artificial intelligence owned by GPR, the novel explores the ethics of artificial intelligence, humanity’s existential beliefs, and the age-old should we do something, simply because we can?
- GenresScience FictionFiction
382 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 14, 2024
930 people are currently reading
259 people want to read
About the author
C.S. Garrand
5 books31 followersI write science fiction. Yes, this "biography" will be more an "autobiography", since I'm not about to write of myself in the third person.
I was born and grew up in northern New Jersey, in the early 1970's. A generation X'er, I grew up running around outside with bare feet, addicted to 70s and 80s sitcoms. I've always been a big fan of science fiction. I can remember standing in the massive line that wound about the mall parking lot just to see the premiere of Star Wars. Later, I would read or watch anything I could get my hands on. The original Dune series, Star Trek and all of its iterations and spinoffs.
Early authors - some of whom I still cherish today - include Dan Simmons (Hyperion/Endymion), Asimov, Bradbury, Wells and many others. When I write my prose, echoes of their ideas and influences come out, though I would never claim to be on any level close to them. Nowadays, Andy Weir, Adrian Tchaikovsky, the works of the two James S.A. Corey writers fill my time and space, with a little Jason Anspach for good military sci-fi action!
I prefer contex in writing. I don't like cutting to the chase. For me, it is important to show the reader the world in which the story takes place. Why are the characters doing what they do? What is the context in which they live or do things by? I can't stand watching a movie or reading a book and going "Oh, come on. Why would they do that?"
My first series, "Humanity's Leap" is told from the point of view of an artificial intelligence - full of detail and analysis. I am a CFO by trade, having worked for a private equity portfolio company, and enjoy the precision of finance. I've been all over the world, and have worked in countries in Eastern Europe and the Carribean/Latin America.
Though I'm still working, my hope is to build a brand with my books that will one day allow me to continue to write after I retire. I guess, even if they don't, I'll still write - even if it's only for myself.
Thanks for giving me a chance to entertain you!
-CS
I was born and grew up in northern New Jersey, in the early 1970's. A generation X'er, I grew up running around outside with bare feet, addicted to 70s and 80s sitcoms. I've always been a big fan of science fiction. I can remember standing in the massive line that wound about the mall parking lot just to see the premiere of Star Wars. Later, I would read or watch anything I could get my hands on. The original Dune series, Star Trek and all of its iterations and spinoffs.
Early authors - some of whom I still cherish today - include Dan Simmons (Hyperion/Endymion), Asimov, Bradbury, Wells and many others. When I write my prose, echoes of their ideas and influences come out, though I would never claim to be on any level close to them. Nowadays, Andy Weir, Adrian Tchaikovsky, the works of the two James S.A. Corey writers fill my time and space, with a little Jason Anspach for good military sci-fi action!
I prefer contex in writing. I don't like cutting to the chase. For me, it is important to show the reader the world in which the story takes place. Why are the characters doing what they do? What is the context in which they live or do things by? I can't stand watching a movie or reading a book and going "Oh, come on. Why would they do that?"
My first series, "Humanity's Leap" is told from the point of view of an artificial intelligence - full of detail and analysis. I am a CFO by trade, having worked for a private equity portfolio company, and enjoy the precision of finance. I've been all over the world, and have worked in countries in Eastern Europe and the Carribean/Latin America.
Though I'm still working, my hope is to build a brand with my books that will one day allow me to continue to write after I retire. I guess, even if they don't, I'll still write - even if it's only for myself.
Thanks for giving me a chance to entertain you!
-CS
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
October 17, 2025
Page Turner.
Lots of twists and turns. Very well written in an easy to follow way. Good character development as well as relatable. I had trouble putting this one down. Highly recommend.
Lots of twists and turns. Very well written in an easy to follow way. Good character development as well as relatable. I had trouble putting this one down. Highly recommend.
February 16, 2025
**Book Review: Species Seventeen Book 1 of Humanity’s Leap by C.S. Garrand**
C.S. Garrand's "Species Seventeen," the inaugural book in the "Humanity’s Leap" series, delivers an enthralling blend of science fiction and corporate intrigue. The novel begins with an age-old human ambition: to reach the stars. However, the tale quickly evolves into something far more complex as the discovery on the asteroid Vesta reveals that humanity's leap into space is not the first.
**Plot and Setting:**
Garrand masterfully constructs a universe where Galactic Planetary Resources (GPR) dominates the race for cosmic profits. The company’s Audacious mission begins as a corporate venture, driven by earnings-per-share and ROI. However, everything changes with the unearthing of an ancient artifact on Vesta, setting off a series of events that transcend mere financial gain. The reverse-engineered technologies provide not just wealth, but a deeper understanding of humanity's place in the cosmos.
**Character Development:**
The characters aboard the Audacious are vividly crafted, each grappling with the tension between corporate objectives and a newfound sense of purpose. Their journey is not just about space exploration but about ethical dilemmas, the pursuit of knowledge, and the struggle to prioritize humanity over profits. The narrative offers a compelling look at how individuals adapt to groundbreaking discoveries and the resistance they face from governing bodies and a menacing AI.
**Narration:**
Patricia Santomasso's narration adds another layer of depth to this already gripping story. Her ability to bring characters to life and convey the urgency of their mission enhances the overall experience, making it hard to pause the audiobook.
**World-Building:**
The world-building in "Species Seventeen" is remarkable. Garrand creates a futuristic yet plausible universe, where technological advancements and human ambition intertwine. The detailed descriptions of space travel, extraterrestrial findings, and the corporate machinations of GPR are immersive and well-researched, keeping readers on the edge of their seats.
**Overall Impression:**
"Species Seventeen" is a thrilling start to the "Humanity’s Leap" series. It's a tale of adventure, corporate intrigue, and ethical contemplation that leaves readers eager for the next installment. Highly recommended for fans of science fiction looking for a story that goes beyond typical space exploration narratives.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5 out of 5 stars)
Embark on this fascinating journey and see how far humanity can leap. I'm sure "The Architect" will be just as engaging! 🚀📚
C.S. Garrand's "Species Seventeen," the inaugural book in the "Humanity’s Leap" series, delivers an enthralling blend of science fiction and corporate intrigue. The novel begins with an age-old human ambition: to reach the stars. However, the tale quickly evolves into something far more complex as the discovery on the asteroid Vesta reveals that humanity's leap into space is not the first.
**Plot and Setting:**
Garrand masterfully constructs a universe where Galactic Planetary Resources (GPR) dominates the race for cosmic profits. The company’s Audacious mission begins as a corporate venture, driven by earnings-per-share and ROI. However, everything changes with the unearthing of an ancient artifact on Vesta, setting off a series of events that transcend mere financial gain. The reverse-engineered technologies provide not just wealth, but a deeper understanding of humanity's place in the cosmos.
**Character Development:**
The characters aboard the Audacious are vividly crafted, each grappling with the tension between corporate objectives and a newfound sense of purpose. Their journey is not just about space exploration but about ethical dilemmas, the pursuit of knowledge, and the struggle to prioritize humanity over profits. The narrative offers a compelling look at how individuals adapt to groundbreaking discoveries and the resistance they face from governing bodies and a menacing AI.
**Narration:**
Patricia Santomasso's narration adds another layer of depth to this already gripping story. Her ability to bring characters to life and convey the urgency of their mission enhances the overall experience, making it hard to pause the audiobook.
**World-Building:**
The world-building in "Species Seventeen" is remarkable. Garrand creates a futuristic yet plausible universe, where technological advancements and human ambition intertwine. The detailed descriptions of space travel, extraterrestrial findings, and the corporate machinations of GPR are immersive and well-researched, keeping readers on the edge of their seats.
**Overall Impression:**
"Species Seventeen" is a thrilling start to the "Humanity’s Leap" series. It's a tale of adventure, corporate intrigue, and ethical contemplation that leaves readers eager for the next installment. Highly recommended for fans of science fiction looking for a story that goes beyond typical space exploration narratives.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5 out of 5 stars)
Embark on this fascinating journey and see how far humanity can leap. I'm sure "The Architect" will be just as engaging! 🚀📚
May 15, 2025
Refreshingly new perspective-and a great read!
I really enjoyed this first book. The situations presented for good and bad AI were really thought provoking. I have complained about modern stories tying all the evil in the world to evil corporations. This book shows how evil people can easily rival those.
The best part, for me, was the discussion about constraints on AI that could become laws protecting us from our own creations. I think he did better than Asimov’s 3 laws.
I can’t wait to start the next book.
I really enjoyed this first book. The situations presented for good and bad AI were really thought provoking. I have complained about modern stories tying all the evil in the world to evil corporations. This book shows how evil people can easily rival those.
The best part, for me, was the discussion about constraints on AI that could become laws protecting us from our own creations. I think he did better than Asimov’s 3 laws.
I can’t wait to start the next book.
September 5, 2025
“Edge of your seat” science fiction
I thoroughly enjoyed this novel. This was my first experience reading from the AI’s perspective and I found it to be unique and refreshing for the first contact sub-genre.
After a long slump of boring tropes and sub-par writing, what was also refreshing was the author’s writing style. There was a happy medium between the unbelievable ideas and the hard science fiction. This allowed the pacing of the novel to flow very well. C.S. Garrand has a vast vocabulary, a good understanding of grammar, and is able to tastefully inject explicit language into the dialogue.
When the action began, I found myself holding my breath, completely enveloped in the story.
His world building and large cast of characters makes for some wonderful web-weaving. Reaching the end of the novel, Garrand sets up the over arching theme for the rest of the series; but I trust reaching the final conclusion won’t be so simple.
I thoroughly enjoyed this novel. This was my first experience reading from the AI’s perspective and I found it to be unique and refreshing for the first contact sub-genre.
After a long slump of boring tropes and sub-par writing, what was also refreshing was the author’s writing style. There was a happy medium between the unbelievable ideas and the hard science fiction. This allowed the pacing of the novel to flow very well. C.S. Garrand has a vast vocabulary, a good understanding of grammar, and is able to tastefully inject explicit language into the dialogue.
When the action began, I found myself holding my breath, completely enveloped in the story.
His world building and large cast of characters makes for some wonderful web-weaving. Reaching the end of the novel, Garrand sets up the over arching theme for the rest of the series; but I trust reaching the final conclusion won’t be so simple.
October 6, 2025
great read
Great read keeping me on the edge looking forward to reading book 2 as soon as I can get it
Great read keeping me on the edge looking forward to reading book 2 as soon as I can get it
February 7, 2025
Warning: cannot be read as a standalone. If I'd known that I would never have started the book in the first place. Will definitely not be reading more of the series; I found neither the characters nor the story engaging enough to care what happens next.
The author should do a lot more research on several things, notably the asteroid belt. And he seriously needs a professional editor.
The author should do a lot more research on several things, notably the asteroid belt. And he seriously needs a professional editor.
September 17, 2025
I hope book 4 is out soon!
I really enjoyed this book, and the next two, now I want books 4 through…?! Please?! Very interesting take on a common theme, you will definitely enjoy it. I would never have guessed it was from a new, self-published author. It was written and edited very professionally, better than a lot of the big names these days.
I really enjoyed this book, and the next two, now I want books 4 through…?! Please?! Very interesting take on a common theme, you will definitely enjoy it. I would never have guessed it was from a new, self-published author. It was written and edited very professionally, better than a lot of the big names these days.
January 9, 2026
pretty Good - Fun
Pretty good, slow start. Will read the next book, fun read, lots of details. Will read the next book in the series
Pretty good, slow start. Will read the next book, fun read, lots of details. Will read the next book in the series
April 23, 2026
A corporate AI is the almost omniscient narrator of this sprawling first-contact story. Garrand needs to work on establishing a unique voice and creating a plot that isn’t just one dang thing after another.
May 1, 2026
Excellent sci-fi series. Well thought out, nice science, believable characters, sense of wonder, space battles, what more do you want? On the same level with the best. Read it.
July 25, 2025
I really liked the story! But it was way too short. It felt more like a "part 1" within a larger novel than "book 1" of a series.
April 19, 2026
Inciteful
Enjoyable book to read. Shows a lot about the workings of the world; corporate and political, and how they work together for their own goals.
Enjoyable book to read. Shows a lot about the workings of the world; corporate and political, and how they work together for their own goals.
September 9, 2025
C.S. Garrand - Species Seventeen
Book 1 Review
An excellent first book with a compelling plot and strong character development. The unique perspective of the storyteller is engaging. I strongly recommend this read.
Book 1 Review
An excellent first book with a compelling plot and strong character development. The unique perspective of the storyteller is engaging. I strongly recommend this read.
April 16, 2026
I wasn’t expecting this level of details and quality. The world building is exquisite. The world is credible. Underrated Author. This is one of the books I’ve read in 35 years on this planet. I’m overall very impressed and currently reading the second book. My best find of 2026 so far.
December 20, 2025
Fun, exciting!
I liked the Marines and the pilots. I especially enjoyed the bad government taking over the world and the evil AI.. So good.
I liked the Marines and the pilots. I especially enjoyed the bad government taking over the world and the evil AI.. So good.
December 22, 2025
Good read
Good story. Well thought out out. Exciting and hard to out down at times. I look forward to reading the rest out the series!
Good story. Well thought out out. Exciting and hard to out down at times. I look forward to reading the rest out the series!
April 7, 2026
Exciting Adventures in the Void
Garrand gets the story going and keeps it moving at a great pace. It's a very believable world, with realistic characters and situations. I love that his adventurers aren't stupid or sloppy. They take reasonable precautions when dealing with the unknown. This volume sets up lots of opportunities for interesting sequels. I intend to read more!
The short reflections on how religious people deal with the knowledge that there are other intelligent creatures all over the galaxy were interesting to me, as a Believer and follower of Jesus Christ. That news, proven true, would undermine the Bible. That's why I have come to the conclusion that there are no other intelligent creatures, beyond earth. I predict no extraterrestrial life will ever be discovered. That won't stop me from reading interesting fiction, though.😀
Garrand gets the story going and keeps it moving at a great pace. It's a very believable world, with realistic characters and situations. I love that his adventurers aren't stupid or sloppy. They take reasonable precautions when dealing with the unknown. This volume sets up lots of opportunities for interesting sequels. I intend to read more!
The short reflections on how religious people deal with the knowledge that there are other intelligent creatures all over the galaxy were interesting to me, as a Believer and follower of Jesus Christ. That news, proven true, would undermine the Bible. That's why I have come to the conclusion that there are no other intelligent creatures, beyond earth. I predict no extraterrestrial life will ever be discovered. That won't stop me from reading interesting fiction, though.😀
November 15, 2025
*****
Great world building, enjoyable storyline and interesting version of first contact. Definitely recommend this book!
Now going to find book two of the series!
Great world building, enjoyable storyline and interesting version of first contact. Definitely recommend this book!
Now going to find book two of the series!
April 11, 2026
Aliens, adveture, action,good plot
Liked it a lot. A lot of characters to keep track of, but the plot was good, and kept me interested. The characters also felt real, not real deep but believable. Good ending also, and left me definitely wanting to read the next book.
Liked it a lot. A lot of characters to keep track of, but the plot was good, and kept me interested. The characters also felt real, not real deep but believable. Good ending also, and left me definitely wanting to read the next book.
May 17, 2025
Good read
I really enjoyed the way you put the AI as the protagonist. It is a unique look at the world.
I really enjoyed the way you put the AI as the protagonist. It is a unique look at the world.
April 4, 2026
well written
Quite interesting and entertaining novel. Decent pace. Enjoyed this sci-fy novel more than most in last several years. Enough plot turns and surprises to keep you focused.
Quite interesting and entertaining novel. Decent pace. Enjoyed this sci-fy novel more than most in last several years. Enough plot turns and surprises to keep you focused.
March 31, 2026
written by a teenager?
“I’ve watched science fiction holo movies”, said no one who watched science fiction holo movies ever. “I watch science fiction blu-ray movies” said I, never. “I watch scifi” would make sense. Or even “I’ve watched Star Trek” since this was about cloaking technology. Except this was a space fighter pilot, a pilot who was so surprised that an enemy ship “vanished” that his AI had to take over for a second. Tell me you’ve never talked to any actual fighter pilots, or indeed done any research about modern fighter planes, without telling me.
“I’ve watched science fiction holo movies”, said no one who watched science fiction holo movies ever. “I watch science fiction blu-ray movies” said I, never. “I watch scifi” would make sense. Or even “I’ve watched Star Trek” since this was about cloaking technology. Except this was a space fighter pilot, a pilot who was so surprised that an enemy ship “vanished” that his AI had to take over for a second. Tell me you’ve never talked to any actual fighter pilots, or indeed done any research about modern fighter planes, without telling me.
April 22, 2026
It’s hard sci fi but also integrates contemporary themes with its heavy involvement of AI (I wish the world we live in would take lessons from that book actually). It’s also creatively written and involves a decent amount of international and cultural references that most sci fi books lack. Reminds me a bit of the Robot series from Asimov, updated, modernized, and a lot more fast-paced.
Really well done.
Really well done.
March 28, 2026
Book one was a great intro…continuing further.
A large saga is unfolding here, tension between a totalitarian government and the self reliant visionaries that they feed upon is becoming more defined. A familiar dynamic, but transposed forward into humanity’s galactic reawakening. Good story!
A large saga is unfolding here, tension between a totalitarian government and the self reliant visionaries that they feed upon is becoming more defined. A familiar dynamic, but transposed forward into humanity’s galactic reawakening. Good story!
March 27, 2026
Thanks for some fun!
Very believable. Very human. I am will definitely finish the series. I am really dying to find out how AVA got the way she is.
Very believable. Very human. I am will definitely finish the series. I am really dying to find out how AVA got the way she is.
March 24, 2026
intriguing sci-fi storyline
So far this first book had me up reading as it was hard to put down. Loved the charecters and how they were portrayed in the story.
Can’t wait to read the next book in series
So far this first book had me up reading as it was hard to put down. Loved the charecters and how they were portrayed in the story.
Can’t wait to read the next book in series
March 20, 2026
I would give it 5 starts if there were an actual ending. There were so many good stoping points yet the book kept rolling and stopped in the middle of a story. Felt like a Netflix show ending on a cliff hanger for the next season.
If that doesn’t bother you, you will enjoy the book if you like hard sci-fi, good character development, intriguing, mysterious story line and the first contact.
If that doesn’t bother you, you will enjoy the book if you like hard sci-fi, good character development, intriguing, mysterious story line and the first contact.
March 13, 2026
Excellently written, fast paced sci-fi!
The author does a wonderful job integrating contemporary science and musings about AI into the sci-fi masterpiece. If you are looking for a space exploration adventure that keeps you up late reading, this is it!
The author does a wonderful job integrating contemporary science and musings about AI into the sci-fi masterpiece. If you are looking for a space exploration adventure that keeps you up late reading, this is it!
December 2, 2024
Refreshingly intelligent. I am still reading and the story has not disappointed me once.
On a side note, the author was rather clever in having the corporate A.I. act as the narrator of the story. That has been a very nice touch!
On a side note, the author was rather clever in having the corporate A.I. act as the narrator of the story. That has been a very nice touch!
February 11, 2026
immediately wanted more story
Another true modern space opera. More is wanted. This may be a new Classic in the genre. No nonsense. Easily published as a major work prior to let’s say year 2000.
Another true modern space opera. More is wanted. This may be a new Classic in the genre. No nonsense. Easily published as a major work prior to let’s say year 2000.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews