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The Dream Guild Chronicles #1
Irradiance
The Community is your first responsibility as a Citizen. So says the First Edict of post-Reformation Sindra. Maribel is a new mother of twins in this bioengineered, telepathically networked society of comfort and safety, where the only relationship that matters is the one between a Citizen and her Community. But Maribel is also a scientist, and scientists follow facts - wherever they lead. Her search for the truth awakens emotions in her she never knew existed, uncovers ancient powers long hidden in Sindra's history, and has the potential to destroy her Community.
A dying planet ... A desperate parent ... A daring plan ... IRRADIANCE is the story of Maribel's choice.
A dying planet ... A desperate parent ... A daring plan ... IRRADIANCE is the story of Maribel's choice.
- GenresScience FictionDystopia
280 pages, Paperback
First published March 3, 2014
9 people are currently reading
344 people want to read
About the author
David Bruns
68 books258 followersDavid Bruns (www.davidbruns.com) has served as an officer on a US Navy nuclear-powered submarine and traveled the world as a high-tech corporate itinerant. Today, he writes futuristic speculative fiction, contemporary thrillers, and everything in between.
He is the creator of the sci-fi/fantasy series, The Dream Guild Chronicles, the military sci-fi thriller Invincible, and co-author of The SynCorp Saga corporate sci-fi series. A graduate of the prestigious Clarion West Writer’s Workshop, his short fiction has appeared in more than two dozen spec fic venues, such as Compelling SciFi and Future Chronicles.
In his spare time, he co-writes national security thrillers with retired naval intelligence officer, JR Olson. Their next book, Rules of Engagement, will be released by St. Martin’s Press in June 2019.
He is the creator of the sci-fi/fantasy series, The Dream Guild Chronicles, the military sci-fi thriller Invincible, and co-author of The SynCorp Saga corporate sci-fi series. A graduate of the prestigious Clarion West Writer’s Workshop, his short fiction has appeared in more than two dozen spec fic venues, such as Compelling SciFi and Future Chronicles.
In his spare time, he co-writes national security thrillers with retired naval intelligence officer, JR Olson. Their next book, Rules of Engagement, will be released by St. Martin’s Press in June 2019.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
May 19, 2014
I read David Bruns first book last year, The Dream Guild and thought it was a reasonable story. I did feel it was a YA Fantasy, even though the author states he didn't intend it to be that way. When I heard that Irradiance was out and was going to be a trilogy based on events leading to what we know about the Dream Guild I was somewhat apprehensive about committing the time to read it. So many books, so little time etc
Well, I have now read it and am happy to report that I throughly enjoyed it! What a HUGE difference in the maturity of writing in this book compared to the first. This is definitely NOT a YA read and really has set the scene for a solid trilogy.
We meet our main characters on a world in the future where speech is no longer accepted as the main form of communication. We have developed mind speech and 'the community' all are expected to use that. Touching and any physical contact is also frowned upon and so touching some ones arm and saying "hey there" is just so shocking people would almost go into shock. All children are born in the farm tank and you are allowed to raise kids if you win a lottery. Of course there is your usual tyrant running all of this, but in book one, he doesn't have much bearing on the story until the end.
The story does a good job of touching on the 'sheep' aspect of the people as they go through their daily lives and just how much the community clouds their 'decisions'. I was expecting to begin to learn more about the Dream Guild or more like, how the dream side of the story works, but in book one, it really does only build the world and characters and sets the scene for the next two. It does a good job of that, I found Bruns' writing style very easy to read and felt that his character builds were much much stronger in this. There are two children in the story, who will go on to become major characters, but so far we no little about them, but given enough to keep you interested.
There was a few moments where the story allowed things to happen a little too easy, in a big brother state, where we are all networked, I was expecting some of the underground movement plans to be a little harder to pull off, but I did also believe that the authorities were so blinded to the fact of total control, that they didn't expect anyone to try some thing illegal. Still, a little drama to upset the best laid plans for the good guys always goes down well to increase the tension.
The pace of the book was excellent, I really enjoyed being able to read the last 20% all in one go, because the build up to the ending was well written and I really looked forward to see how it all came together.
All in all, a enjoyable read and I would recommend this and I am looking forward to book 2.
Well, I have now read it and am happy to report that I throughly enjoyed it! What a HUGE difference in the maturity of writing in this book compared to the first. This is definitely NOT a YA read and really has set the scene for a solid trilogy.
We meet our main characters on a world in the future where speech is no longer accepted as the main form of communication. We have developed mind speech and 'the community' all are expected to use that. Touching and any physical contact is also frowned upon and so touching some ones arm and saying "hey there" is just so shocking people would almost go into shock. All children are born in the farm tank and you are allowed to raise kids if you win a lottery. Of course there is your usual tyrant running all of this, but in book one, he doesn't have much bearing on the story until the end.
The story does a good job of touching on the 'sheep' aspect of the people as they go through their daily lives and just how much the community clouds their 'decisions'. I was expecting to begin to learn more about the Dream Guild or more like, how the dream side of the story works, but in book one, it really does only build the world and characters and sets the scene for the next two. It does a good job of that, I found Bruns' writing style very easy to read and felt that his character builds were much much stronger in this. There are two children in the story, who will go on to become major characters, but so far we no little about them, but given enough to keep you interested.
There was a few moments where the story allowed things to happen a little too easy, in a big brother state, where we are all networked, I was expecting some of the underground movement plans to be a little harder to pull off, but I did also believe that the authorities were so blinded to the fact of total control, that they didn't expect anyone to try some thing illegal. Still, a little drama to upset the best laid plans for the good guys always goes down well to increase the tension.
The pace of the book was excellent, I really enjoyed being able to read the last 20% all in one go, because the build up to the ending was well written and I really looked forward to see how it all came together.
All in all, a enjoyable read and I would recommend this and I am looking forward to book 2.
August 26, 2016
Since this is my own work, I'm not about to review it; however, I wanted to offer some background about how this book came into being.
My first book, The Dream Guild, was published in JUL 2013. The book was written on a break between jobs when I need something to occupy my mind. There was never a thought to a follow-on or series. I only decided to publish it after receiving positive feedback from a number of people.
Hitting the publish button was a rush. If you ever think you have a book in your future, I highly recommend sitting down and working a story all the way through drafts, edits, formatting, cover *pause for breath* and publishing. It is a very satisfying journey.
The most common critique of The Dream Guild was that it was too short. Why? Well, quite simply, that was the story I was capable of handling at that point in my writing career. Still, when I decided to write another book "for real" this time, I knew I needed to take it to the next level. The result was Irradiance, a prequel to The Dream Guild and the first in a series I am calling THE DREAM GUILD CHRONICLES.
If I do it right, I should be able to fold my original book somewhere in the future Dream Guild Chronicles series.
I hope you enjoy reading Irradiance as much as I enjoyed writing it!.
My first book, The Dream Guild, was published in JUL 2013. The book was written on a break between jobs when I need something to occupy my mind. There was never a thought to a follow-on or series. I only decided to publish it after receiving positive feedback from a number of people.
Hitting the publish button was a rush. If you ever think you have a book in your future, I highly recommend sitting down and working a story all the way through drafts, edits, formatting, cover *pause for breath* and publishing. It is a very satisfying journey.
The most common critique of The Dream Guild was that it was too short. Why? Well, quite simply, that was the story I was capable of handling at that point in my writing career. Still, when I decided to write another book "for real" this time, I knew I needed to take it to the next level. The result was Irradiance, a prequel to The Dream Guild and the first in a series I am calling THE DREAM GUILD CHRONICLES.
If I do it right, I should be able to fold my original book somewhere in the future Dream Guild Chronicles series.
I hope you enjoy reading Irradiance as much as I enjoyed writing it!.
March 18, 2014
4.5 stars
I wasn’t sure what to expect of Irradiance, having read David Brun’s first book, The Dream Guild. Let me start off by saying that this is a much different book than his first. First, this is geared much more toward an adult audience with a richer and more vibrant world that the story was built within. And for that, I’m glad. I really liked the dystopian world where certain discoveries are made that make the government’s blind-eye world view questioned to such a point where they decide to address the questioning. Decisively.
Second, the structure of Sindra’s society was logical – and although it is one that I found myself at odds with its ideals for a number of reasons, it held a certain level of calm and order to it... until the layers were peeled back. I liked how the space travel was portrayed, and I will have to admit that their recycling program turned out a bit more thorough than I had imagined. But that’s a good thing, because in a way it reflects on the unsustainability of their society both on the human level as well as the societal level itself.
The social constraints aside, I liked how the telepathy impacted people’s interactions as well as the crystals and the role they played in their society, as well as the limitations of the crystals themselves.
When reading the book, I quickly became invested in the protagonist and the main characters. While I could see the direction that the story itself was headed in, there were a number of twists that took me by surprise. In the end, I definitely found myself rooting for the Book Club, and all who belonged to it.
I do have two minor qualms about the story. The first – the story felt a bit too short. The second for me was the pseudo-cliff-hanger ending. I won’t give any details, but it feels like there were two warring emotions at the end, the anxious joy of success and the suck your breath in and wait for it cliff-hanger. For me, I wish there was more of the former and a bit less of the latter – but this is purely a personal preference.
I liked the pacing of the plot and how the story itself unfolded. The richness of the dystopic world that was built is something that I wasn’t necessarily expecting, but am glad that I found. I will certainly be reading the next book when it comes out, and I highly recommend this book for a fun read that just happens to have some faintly serious undertones nestled within.
Above all else – remember… The mind is the true voice of a Citizen. Now do your civic duty, Citizen, and read this book.
I wasn’t sure what to expect of Irradiance, having read David Brun’s first book, The Dream Guild. Let me start off by saying that this is a much different book than his first. First, this is geared much more toward an adult audience with a richer and more vibrant world that the story was built within. And for that, I’m glad. I really liked the dystopian world where certain discoveries are made that make the government’s blind-eye world view questioned to such a point where they decide to address the questioning. Decisively.
Second, the structure of Sindra’s society was logical – and although it is one that I found myself at odds with its ideals for a number of reasons, it held a certain level of calm and order to it... until the layers were peeled back. I liked how the space travel was portrayed, and I will have to admit that their recycling program turned out a bit more thorough than I had imagined. But that’s a good thing, because in a way it reflects on the unsustainability of their society both on the human level as well as the societal level itself.
The social constraints aside, I liked how the telepathy impacted people’s interactions as well as the crystals and the role they played in their society, as well as the limitations of the crystals themselves.
When reading the book, I quickly became invested in the protagonist and the main characters. While I could see the direction that the story itself was headed in, there were a number of twists that took me by surprise. In the end, I definitely found myself rooting for the Book Club, and all who belonged to it.
I do have two minor qualms about the story. The first – the story felt a bit too short. The second for me was the pseudo-cliff-hanger ending. I won’t give any details, but it feels like there were two warring emotions at the end, the anxious joy of success and the suck your breath in and wait for it cliff-hanger. For me, I wish there was more of the former and a bit less of the latter – but this is purely a personal preference.
I liked the pacing of the plot and how the story itself unfolded. The richness of the dystopic world that was built is something that I wasn’t necessarily expecting, but am glad that I found. I will certainly be reading the next book when it comes out, and I highly recommend this book for a fun read that just happens to have some faintly serious undertones nestled within.
Above all else – remember… The mind is the true voice of a Citizen. Now do your civic duty, Citizen, and read this book.
March 9, 2014
With “Irradiance,” David Bruns takes the world of fantasy and sci-fi by storm in this first book in The Dream Guild Chronicles. Set on the somewhat-dystopic planet of Sindra, “Irradiance” focuses on the life of Maribel, who lives with her partner Reese and their twins, Gideon and Sariah. The citizens of Sindra follow strict edicts and believe that “The mind is the true voice of a Citizen,” in accordance with which they communicate via telepathy, and crystals implanted in their foreheads allow them to connect to the community’s Network. As an astrophysicist, Maribel specializes in habitable planet identification, and her work soon uncovers startling truths that will have an undeniable impact on her planet’s future. However, this discovery forces her to make difficult choices, with her family’s life is on the line.
“Irradiance” is an imaginative journey into the realm of science fiction. In contrast to its predecessor, “The Dream Guild,” this book is for an adult audience due to the intriguing complexity of the plot. Science, particularly astrophysics and psionics, plays a dominant role in the story. Although the scientific discussions and concepts are rife throughout the story, Bruns effectively explains the theories and ideas, making them understandable for adult readers. “Irradiance” draws readers in with a thrilling plotline and fast-paced action, especially during the second half of the book, and it is reminiscent of such classics as “1984” and “Brave New World.” Beware, however, because Big Brother is watching, and the cliffhanger ender will have readers clamoring for the next book in the series!
I received a copy of this e-book in exchange for an honest review.
“Irradiance” is an imaginative journey into the realm of science fiction. In contrast to its predecessor, “The Dream Guild,” this book is for an adult audience due to the intriguing complexity of the plot. Science, particularly astrophysics and psionics, plays a dominant role in the story. Although the scientific discussions and concepts are rife throughout the story, Bruns effectively explains the theories and ideas, making them understandable for adult readers. “Irradiance” draws readers in with a thrilling plotline and fast-paced action, especially during the second half of the book, and it is reminiscent of such classics as “1984” and “Brave New World.” Beware, however, because Big Brother is watching, and the cliffhanger ender will have readers clamoring for the next book in the series!
I received a copy of this e-book in exchange for an honest review.
June 2, 2014
Irradiance by David Bruns is a brooding science fiction novel that borders on psychological thriller in its focus on the family as victims of a totalitarian society. Maribel and Reese are gifted by twins Gideon and Sariah, but eventually come to realize that their blessing may have come as a curse in their futuristic society. She is continually reminded of the social maxim: the Community is your first responsibility as a Citizen. Bruns pays homage to such classics as Fahrenheit 451 and 1984 as we see how personal liberties and intellectual development are marginalized by a cult of personality. The cultural icon in this case is Supreme Councilor Veelich, who is intent on bringing Maribel into the fold despite her reservations.
The author introduces us to the Book Club headed by Dr. Olgana, a group intent on resisting the suffocating influence of the Community. Although Veelich’s top goon Sweepe is able to take Olgana out of the picture, the manipulators are faced with a greater problem in trying to separate a mother from her children. In this we see how Bruns arrives at the common denominator. We can see how media influence in modern-day society can cause us to question our ethnicity, our political allegiances and our religion. Even when sons are turned against fathers and brothers against sisters, the love of a mother for her children is seldom quenched. Bruns takes us to the bottom line where the conceits of community and citizenship cannot endure.
For sci-fi fans and suspense/thriller fans alike, Irradiance by David Bruns is one you won’t want to miss.
The author introduces us to the Book Club headed by Dr. Olgana, a group intent on resisting the suffocating influence of the Community. Although Veelich’s top goon Sweepe is able to take Olgana out of the picture, the manipulators are faced with a greater problem in trying to separate a mother from her children. In this we see how Bruns arrives at the common denominator. We can see how media influence in modern-day society can cause us to question our ethnicity, our political allegiances and our religion. Even when sons are turned against fathers and brothers against sisters, the love of a mother for her children is seldom quenched. Bruns takes us to the bottom line where the conceits of community and citizenship cannot endure.
For sci-fi fans and suspense/thriller fans alike, Irradiance by David Bruns is one you won’t want to miss.
April 12, 2014
The author, David Bruns, gave me a copy of this novel in exchange for my review.
There is menace lurking in the constant watchfulness and connectivity of The Community. This complex world is like a clear film layer over our own potential future. Everyone is the same. Everyone is connected to and monitored by The Community. There is no freedom of expression or freedom to marry the person you love. You are attached to your genetic match and if you’re approved to have children they are bred in The Hatchery until old enough to go home with their parents. Maribel and her genetic mate, Reese, are approved for children. One of whom is born without the acceptable pale skin, white-blond hair and light eyes and should be slated for “recycling” but he is saved by a doctor who wishes his parents to raise him so that he can be observed and studied. It seems the twins are special in a way suspected by but not shared with their parents.
As happens within the genre, there is a bit of a cautionary edge to the story. The Community is built of government regulations gone out of hand. The Orwellian overtones are clear. Those who feel fear live in fear from the frequently traumatic and deadly induction into the Community.
“Irradiance: The Dream Guild Chronicles – Book One” is a fascinating read, first page to last.
There is menace lurking in the constant watchfulness and connectivity of The Community. This complex world is like a clear film layer over our own potential future. Everyone is the same. Everyone is connected to and monitored by The Community. There is no freedom of expression or freedom to marry the person you love. You are attached to your genetic match and if you’re approved to have children they are bred in The Hatchery until old enough to go home with their parents. Maribel and her genetic mate, Reese, are approved for children. One of whom is born without the acceptable pale skin, white-blond hair and light eyes and should be slated for “recycling” but he is saved by a doctor who wishes his parents to raise him so that he can be observed and studied. It seems the twins are special in a way suspected by but not shared with their parents.
As happens within the genre, there is a bit of a cautionary edge to the story. The Community is built of government regulations gone out of hand. The Orwellian overtones are clear. Those who feel fear live in fear from the frequently traumatic and deadly induction into the Community.
“Irradiance: The Dream Guild Chronicles – Book One” is a fascinating read, first page to last.
March 16, 2014
Very enjoyable read!
"Irradiance" is the story of Maribel and Resse and their children Gideon and Sariah. David Bruns has built a world where people talk via telepathy, with help from the crytals implanted on their foreheads. They live a tightly regulated existence and when Maribel's new discovery about their planet's future comes in light, conflict ensues.
I loved the intricate and vivid world of Sindra, I could almost feel the Sindran sun on me as I read the book. The plot is complex and the tensions rise quickly and as satisfyingly as I hoped. The telepathic conversation was as engaging as verbal communication would be. Bruns has done a wonderful job with this "alternate dialogue." I am rooting for a free future for Maribel and family in the next installment from the author.
I received a copy of this e-book in exchange for an honest review.
"Irradiance" is the story of Maribel and Resse and their children Gideon and Sariah. David Bruns has built a world where people talk via telepathy, with help from the crytals implanted on their foreheads. They live a tightly regulated existence and when Maribel's new discovery about their planet's future comes in light, conflict ensues.
I loved the intricate and vivid world of Sindra, I could almost feel the Sindran sun on me as I read the book. The plot is complex and the tensions rise quickly and as satisfyingly as I hoped. The telepathic conversation was as engaging as verbal communication would be. Bruns has done a wonderful job with this "alternate dialogue." I am rooting for a free future for Maribel and family in the next installment from the author.
I received a copy of this e-book in exchange for an honest review.
April 29, 2014
Irradiance is a great sci-fi escapist read. Well written detailed scenes draw the reader into a future where everyone's mind is connected and speech forbidden. A cautionary tale about listening to what the planet is saying, Irradiance reminds us to cherish books, silence, and the simple joys of family life. Author David Bruns skillfully images a world in which space travel is activated by the mind and people travel to space via elevators. His characters are well-developed with both hopes and faults. I highly recommend this book.
July 12, 2014
From its opening pages, Irradiance is a fascinating piece of work, containing both superb worldbuilding and well-realised characters. Naturally, then, there is much to like – particularly for lovers of dystopian fiction, to whom this book is aimed. At the same time, a handful of niggles keep the book firmly grounded in the realm of “good”; it’s a fun read, certainly, but not without its flaws.
Irradiance presents us with Sindra, a world where everyone is linked by a combination of telepathy and technology. A Supreme Council holds total power, with reams of Control Officers acting to keep the people in line. Citizens who fail to conform, deliberately or otherwise, are taken away and “recycled” with few opportunities to make amends. Babies are grown in tanks with genes pre-selected by the state, ensuring homogeneity amongst the populace.
Sindra is a terrible place, but also a comfortable one for those who toe the line. Thus, only a few citizens think to rebel. One of those citizens is Maribel, a scientist studying the behaviour of Sindra’s sun. Maribel discovers a shocking truth and realises that drastic action is needed; the Supreme Council, fearing public unrest, refuse to listen. Maribel refuses to back down, however, which brings both herself and her family under the authorities’ gaze…
The above summary barely scratches the surface of the book, by the way. Indeed, the book deals with everything from hyperspace travel to precognition to popular politics good ol’ fashioned prejudice. A huge number of plot threads and ideas vie for readers’ attention – too big a number, in fact. Various concepts end up going under-explored as a result, while the main conflict takes just a little too long to properly get going.
Once things do get going, mind, the result is suitably exciting. Maribel and her family become closer and closer as events intensify, with the government hounding them at every turn. This eventually leads to a downright thrilling conclusion, which ends things in a way seldom seen in these kinds of books. I really grew to care for Maribel by the end, as well as for her family, friends and allies. All of them were distinct, being easy to both visualise and “hear”; traits which, incidentally, were shared by the villains.
There were a couple of headscratchers near the end, mind. During a fight, a character seemingly forgets an ability they used before, making things far tougher than they should have been. At the same time, Maribel makes one particular decision which…didn’t make much sense, on reflection. These didn’t detract from the overall experience too much, and it’s possible they will be explained in the sequel, but I found them distracting nonetheless.
Irradiance is certainly not perfect, but it’s by no means bad either. Fans of dystopian fiction will like it, as will likers of science fiction in general. All in all, I’d say it’s worth a look.
Irradiance presents us with Sindra, a world where everyone is linked by a combination of telepathy and technology. A Supreme Council holds total power, with reams of Control Officers acting to keep the people in line. Citizens who fail to conform, deliberately or otherwise, are taken away and “recycled” with few opportunities to make amends. Babies are grown in tanks with genes pre-selected by the state, ensuring homogeneity amongst the populace.
Sindra is a terrible place, but also a comfortable one for those who toe the line. Thus, only a few citizens think to rebel. One of those citizens is Maribel, a scientist studying the behaviour of Sindra’s sun. Maribel discovers a shocking truth and realises that drastic action is needed; the Supreme Council, fearing public unrest, refuse to listen. Maribel refuses to back down, however, which brings both herself and her family under the authorities’ gaze…
The above summary barely scratches the surface of the book, by the way. Indeed, the book deals with everything from hyperspace travel to precognition to popular politics good ol’ fashioned prejudice. A huge number of plot threads and ideas vie for readers’ attention – too big a number, in fact. Various concepts end up going under-explored as a result, while the main conflict takes just a little too long to properly get going.
Once things do get going, mind, the result is suitably exciting. Maribel and her family become closer and closer as events intensify, with the government hounding them at every turn. This eventually leads to a downright thrilling conclusion, which ends things in a way seldom seen in these kinds of books. I really grew to care for Maribel by the end, as well as for her family, friends and allies. All of them were distinct, being easy to both visualise and “hear”; traits which, incidentally, were shared by the villains.
There were a couple of headscratchers near the end, mind. During a fight, a character seemingly forgets an ability they used before, making things far tougher than they should have been. At the same time, Maribel makes one particular decision which…didn’t make much sense, on reflection. These didn’t detract from the overall experience too much, and it’s possible they will be explained in the sequel, but I found them distracting nonetheless.
Irradiance is certainly not perfect, but it’s by no means bad either. Fans of dystopian fiction will like it, as will likers of science fiction in general. All in all, I’d say it’s worth a look.
September 21, 2014
Let’s say the Earth was dying. The Earth was dying and you had the option to either just die or to identify and move to another planet, which would you do? It doesn't matter which because even if Earth was dying, we don’t have the option of inter-planetary migration. It’s 2014. You’d think we would. This preamble gains relevance the further you read. I swear.
I read ‘Irradiance’ lately; the first book in the ‘Dream Guild Chronicles’ by David Bruns and it was great.
It’s another day as usual on the planet Sindra, where weather patterns and radiation from the sun have been steadily getting out of control. Maribel, an astrophysicist on the planet discovers that these weather patterns mean their sun is dying and that their only hope for survival as a race is inter-planetary colonisation. Unlike for us on Earth, this is actually an option for them so this is a fine idea, except there are certain forces intent on their carefully crafted and maintained society being kept together, even if the only way to do that is through grave endangerment.
The book is the first in a series and reads as such. There seemed a lot of plot set up for further development. Which is great because the plot is a damn good one. The Sindran society presented in the book and the planet Sindra itself seem so familiar yet distant in relation to Earth. Their society appears prosperous and peaceful and the people seem driven and focused but despite this, something sinister lurks. The entire society is homogenous but they didn’t get that way through natural selection. Maribel works as an astrophysicist but not because she necessarily wants to. It’s so perfect but the perfection only floats like scum on a base of fucked-upness.
I felt sort of cold reading this. Yes, it is ‘winter’ where I live right now but not cold like that. Sort of prickly, the way I would feel when I watched the ‘X-Files’. This book has a darkness to it which really appealed to me. It was really exciting and fast-paced as well, it just kept hitting, and then hitting some more. My one thing is that is ends on a cliff-hanger, really unexpectedly and I was very upset about that.
It was great though. A really sort of easy and engaging sci-fi read Four stars out of five. AND THE NEXT IN THE SERIES IS AVAILABLE. USE THE LINKS BELOW.
Website: http://davidbruns.com/
Email: david@davidbruns.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/davidbrunswr...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/brunsdavid
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
I read ‘Irradiance’ lately; the first book in the ‘Dream Guild Chronicles’ by David Bruns and it was great.
It’s another day as usual on the planet Sindra, where weather patterns and radiation from the sun have been steadily getting out of control. Maribel, an astrophysicist on the planet discovers that these weather patterns mean their sun is dying and that their only hope for survival as a race is inter-planetary colonisation. Unlike for us on Earth, this is actually an option for them so this is a fine idea, except there are certain forces intent on their carefully crafted and maintained society being kept together, even if the only way to do that is through grave endangerment.
The book is the first in a series and reads as such. There seemed a lot of plot set up for further development. Which is great because the plot is a damn good one. The Sindran society presented in the book and the planet Sindra itself seem so familiar yet distant in relation to Earth. Their society appears prosperous and peaceful and the people seem driven and focused but despite this, something sinister lurks. The entire society is homogenous but they didn’t get that way through natural selection. Maribel works as an astrophysicist but not because she necessarily wants to. It’s so perfect but the perfection only floats like scum on a base of fucked-upness.
I felt sort of cold reading this. Yes, it is ‘winter’ where I live right now but not cold like that. Sort of prickly, the way I would feel when I watched the ‘X-Files’. This book has a darkness to it which really appealed to me. It was really exciting and fast-paced as well, it just kept hitting, and then hitting some more. My one thing is that is ends on a cliff-hanger, really unexpectedly and I was very upset about that.
It was great though. A really sort of easy and engaging sci-fi read Four stars out of five. AND THE NEXT IN THE SERIES IS AVAILABLE. USE THE LINKS BELOW.
Website: http://davidbruns.com/
Email: david@davidbruns.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/davidbrunswr...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/brunsdavid
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
August 26, 2016
"Irradiance (The Dream Guild Chronicles - Book One)" by David Bruns is a well plotted fascinating futuristic science fiction/ dystopian novel. The Citizens of Sindra have lost control over their lives in a reformation to their society, in exchange for new technology and their safety.
It is a strict society where parents are matched by outside biological selection and children are brought to their parents from a hatchery. Radiation threatens the people on the surface of the planet and the people communicate predominantly telepathically.
This new world is described with great detail, the author has clearly given all aspects of this world deep thought. The novel is of a similar quality as 1984 or Logan's Run with its unique and inspired world creation. Therer is logic to the parameters of Sindra, which is probably why the citizens seem to accept the world without much resistance- one of the aspects that make the novel so fascinating.
The book focuses on one family whose twin children are special and who become of particular interest throughout the book. The father is a time bender and the mother a scientistwho is looking for habitable planets.
Although pairing is not usually chosen by the couple themselves, our protagonists have a bond with each other, which brings the element of humanity against a cold and inhumane society to play.
Bruns has invested a lot in his characters, not just the science fiction or dystopian element of his novel and it pays off. They are engaging and likeable as they make discoveries that change their view of the world.
As you can see, the book has a lot packed into it: Stellar, societal and personal issues to be resolved, in a great, gradual unravelling that culminates in a great final scene that builds the perfect bridge to the next book, when it comes out.
Excellent science fiction.
It is a strict society where parents are matched by outside biological selection and children are brought to their parents from a hatchery. Radiation threatens the people on the surface of the planet and the people communicate predominantly telepathically.
This new world is described with great detail, the author has clearly given all aspects of this world deep thought. The novel is of a similar quality as 1984 or Logan's Run with its unique and inspired world creation. Therer is logic to the parameters of Sindra, which is probably why the citizens seem to accept the world without much resistance- one of the aspects that make the novel so fascinating.
The book focuses on one family whose twin children are special and who become of particular interest throughout the book. The father is a time bender and the mother a scientistwho is looking for habitable planets.
Although pairing is not usually chosen by the couple themselves, our protagonists have a bond with each other, which brings the element of humanity against a cold and inhumane society to play.
Bruns has invested a lot in his characters, not just the science fiction or dystopian element of his novel and it pays off. They are engaging and likeable as they make discoveries that change their view of the world.
As you can see, the book has a lot packed into it: Stellar, societal and personal issues to be resolved, in a great, gradual unravelling that culminates in a great final scene that builds the perfect bridge to the next book, when it comes out.
Excellent science fiction.
August 4, 2016
A wonderful start to a promising series.
I love stories that gradually unravel a hard core warning at its centre. I often wonder if an author wrote a story to a theme, or whether the themes evolved out of the writing.
For me, Irradiance tells the story of one family discovering utopia is based on a lie. It captures the tipping point where society is no longer compatible with individual freedom, and where the illusion of happiness is found by unquestioning adherence to dogma. A paradigm where political leaders are so chained to their ideology, their quest for perfection, they would rather drag everyone over the cliff than allow a few brave souls to forge a different path.
David Bruns has created a world where purity has no room for compassion or love, and where life can be “recycled” the moment it ceases to have value for the greater good. This society is shocking. Brutal. Callous. Right to the end, its citizens, even the protagonists, seemed switched off to the true horror of their culture, the urgency of their situation struggling to break through their learned adherence to society’s diktats.
The pace moves steadily forward with vivid and detailed world building at the beginning, picking up as events spiral out of control towards the end. I loved the gradual awakening of Maribel and Resse to the power of their emotions, that they now had words to legitimise their feelings for each other. Each had their own gifts and I enjoyed the science explored through both characters.
Irradiance is the start of a much bigger story where the children will no doubt come into their own. I am very much looking forward to the next in this series.
(Disclosure: I was gifted a copy of this book in the hope of a review. I'm delighted to say I enjoyed it!)
I love stories that gradually unravel a hard core warning at its centre. I often wonder if an author wrote a story to a theme, or whether the themes evolved out of the writing.
For me, Irradiance tells the story of one family discovering utopia is based on a lie. It captures the tipping point where society is no longer compatible with individual freedom, and where the illusion of happiness is found by unquestioning adherence to dogma. A paradigm where political leaders are so chained to their ideology, their quest for perfection, they would rather drag everyone over the cliff than allow a few brave souls to forge a different path.
David Bruns has created a world where purity has no room for compassion or love, and where life can be “recycled” the moment it ceases to have value for the greater good. This society is shocking. Brutal. Callous. Right to the end, its citizens, even the protagonists, seemed switched off to the true horror of their culture, the urgency of their situation struggling to break through their learned adherence to society’s diktats.
The pace moves steadily forward with vivid and detailed world building at the beginning, picking up as events spiral out of control towards the end. I loved the gradual awakening of Maribel and Resse to the power of their emotions, that they now had words to legitimise their feelings for each other. Each had their own gifts and I enjoyed the science explored through both characters.
Irradiance is the start of a much bigger story where the children will no doubt come into their own. I am very much looking forward to the next in this series.
(Disclosure: I was gifted a copy of this book in the hope of a review. I'm delighted to say I enjoyed it!)
June 10, 2014
The people of Sindra live by several Edicts set down centuries ago. They’re telepathic (the use of speech is highly discouraged) and they’re mentally connected to the Community by the crystals implanted through their foreheads into their brains when they’re about 13 or 14. Everything Sindrans do is for the betterment of the Community. Physical contact is a no-no and all children are bioengineered in a lab to be the best specimens of the species. Maribel is a new mother to a very different set of twins, a “wife”, and a premier scientist. She also flouts some of the Edicts in the privacy of her own home with her family. When Maribel’s research uncovers a dangerous truth, she must make choices which could risk the safety of herself and everyone she loves.
IRRADIANCE is a well-crafted science fiction novel written in a style which makes the science easy to understand and the characters blaze to life. Most Sindrans go through life never questioning the Community or their roles in it. I was appalled by how they ‘recycled’ defective people like it was no big deal as long as it benefitted the Community. There was no real room for individuality and anyone who did not follow the rules was punished severely. I loved Maribel and her very special twins. It was empowering to see how the quest for truth was Maribel’s ultimate goal, no matter the personal consequences. There are some eerie similarities to the blind followers and people today who no longer question authority or the removal of rights. IRRADIANCE is the first book in a new series and the ending will leave you with many more questions than answers, but also with hope.
IRRADIANCE is a well-crafted science fiction novel written in a style which makes the science easy to understand and the characters blaze to life. Most Sindrans go through life never questioning the Community or their roles in it. I was appalled by how they ‘recycled’ defective people like it was no big deal as long as it benefitted the Community. There was no real room for individuality and anyone who did not follow the rules was punished severely. I loved Maribel and her very special twins. It was empowering to see how the quest for truth was Maribel’s ultimate goal, no matter the personal consequences. There are some eerie similarities to the blind followers and people today who no longer question authority or the removal of rights. IRRADIANCE is the first book in a new series and the ending will leave you with many more questions than answers, but also with hope.
Read
April 18, 2014I love well-written stories that make statements, be they political or otherwise. David Bruns easily covered all bases with Irradiance and I was immediately drawn in. Another ‘plus factor’ for me was the author clearly describes his world and characters with ease. The plot shows, without doubt, a good deal of time was set aside to make the world of Sindra and all her inhabitants come to life.
One thing over looked by many new authors is a viable timeline. Irradiance is very believable and painless to follow, holding my interest throughout. Next, and just as important, was the obvious abundance of fresh new ideas, like recycling, just to mention one.
As with any book that presents beliefs or ideals, if the reader keeps an open mind while looking at content on its own merit, Irradiance shines through, beyond many other similar genre stories.
The main characters, Maribel, Reese, and their two children, speak telepathically using crystals implanted within their heads. The world they live in is fully controlled at every turn. However, a new discovery from Maribel concerning the planet’s future set the world on its ear. Naturally, strife and struggle ensue, adding to the books building tension and strong story line.
My only drawback was the ‘cliff hanger’ ending. However, with that said, since I will certainly be reading the next novel, it was not a deal breaker issue for me.
I give a solid 4.5 stars to David Bruns for a wonderfully written piece of work. Congratulations Mr. Bruns, and I am anxiously waiting for the next installment.
One thing over looked by many new authors is a viable timeline. Irradiance is very believable and painless to follow, holding my interest throughout. Next, and just as important, was the obvious abundance of fresh new ideas, like recycling, just to mention one.
As with any book that presents beliefs or ideals, if the reader keeps an open mind while looking at content on its own merit, Irradiance shines through, beyond many other similar genre stories.
The main characters, Maribel, Reese, and their two children, speak telepathically using crystals implanted within their heads. The world they live in is fully controlled at every turn. However, a new discovery from Maribel concerning the planet’s future set the world on its ear. Naturally, strife and struggle ensue, adding to the books building tension and strong story line.
My only drawback was the ‘cliff hanger’ ending. However, with that said, since I will certainly be reading the next novel, it was not a deal breaker issue for me.
I give a solid 4.5 stars to David Bruns for a wonderfully written piece of work. Congratulations Mr. Bruns, and I am anxiously waiting for the next installment.
May 26, 2014
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Irradiance is set on a planet called Sindra in a distant solar system, where the people have been genetically engineered for centuries to eliminate unwanted anomalies and enhance certain traits. Those born with unwanted traits are "recycled" at birth. Yikes!
This is a sci-fi/fantasty tale that bears some frightening similarities to some possibilities of what could happen on our own planet in the not so distant future, much like the terrifying Big Brother from Orwell's 1984 which is pretty darn close to what is happening now in our world.
Maribel is a wife, a mother, and a scientist who has discovered something that her government doesn't want their citizens to know. Their planet is dying and there isn't much time left. Desperate to provide this information to the public in spite of the danger to herself, and her family and friends, Maribel has to make some tough choices.
It's a well written story, with a good plot and I read it in pretty much one sitting - so that tells you right there that I was hooked. My only (very minor) complaint is that I wanted a little bit more at the end - an epilogue - but since this is the first book in a series I suppose I must wait for book two to know how things work out. Unlike many series these days I did find the ending satisfying even though I wanted more. I guess that is exactly how a series should work, right?
Irradiance is set on a planet called Sindra in a distant solar system, where the people have been genetically engineered for centuries to eliminate unwanted anomalies and enhance certain traits. Those born with unwanted traits are "recycled" at birth. Yikes!
This is a sci-fi/fantasty tale that bears some frightening similarities to some possibilities of what could happen on our own planet in the not so distant future, much like the terrifying Big Brother from Orwell's 1984 which is pretty darn close to what is happening now in our world.
Maribel is a wife, a mother, and a scientist who has discovered something that her government doesn't want their citizens to know. Their planet is dying and there isn't much time left. Desperate to provide this information to the public in spite of the danger to herself, and her family and friends, Maribel has to make some tough choices.
It's a well written story, with a good plot and I read it in pretty much one sitting - so that tells you right there that I was hooked. My only (very minor) complaint is that I wanted a little bit more at the end - an epilogue - but since this is the first book in a series I suppose I must wait for book two to know how things work out. Unlike many series these days I did find the ending satisfying even though I wanted more. I guess that is exactly how a series should work, right?
July 7, 2014
This was an excellent first book to the dream guild chronicles. The data and scientific explanations of their society and their technology, especially the flight operations made this an engrossing learning opportunity. The prose was excellent and elegantly written. It takes a whole lot of respectable courage to stand up to your government, your peers, and everything you have ever known to fight for what's just and right.The huge leaps and bounds that Maribel takes can be seen as inspirational to anyone in a situation that deprives them of their basic human rights.On another note it was so awesome and even plausible to see a world so like our own that managed to be so different at the same time. People need touch and love in order to survive and flourish in life, and this little group of people recognized the meaning of the word love without ever knowing it before. I was hooked from the first page to the very last and I am literally hanging on to that cliff waiting in anticipation for what comes next.... I'm a total fan!!!!
August 31, 2016
My son read this one while I was trying to organize a new hectic schedule. He says the way things are described creates a detailed vision without dragging down the reader. The characters have a realistic feel to them and the dialogue comes across as natural. He likes how they react to events around them and develop as the book continues. He especially likes that there are no inconsistencies between characters, a pet peeve of his. The plot is intriguing with an original feel to it and a pace that kept his attention all the way through. He says he is looking forward to reading book two. We received an evaluation copy from the author with a review request. No compensation has been or will be accepted beyond the free copy of the book. These are our opinions which may not mirror your own.
July 26, 2016
Amazing plot twists, incredible characters, and a wholly imagined future world. This book kept me reading, furiously flipping through the pages. What a read!
January 5, 2016
*Won in a Goodreads giveaway.*
4.5 stars.
I thought this was an unique idea. This book was amazing. Recommend.
4.5 stars.
I thought this was an unique idea. This book was amazing. Recommend.
June 7, 2017
David Bruns has written an eerie and engrossing story of a world that obviously takes place in a galaxy far, far away, and many, many years from our current position in time and space. It is original, has a solid promise of even better to come, and ends at a point that makes the next novel in the series a must-read.
Read the Amazon ‘blurb”, and be prepared for something even better.
David Bruns is part of the team of authors known as “Two Navy Guys”, which includes J. R. Olsen, and I have already read their “Death of a Pawn”, which is a part of their Weapons of Mass Destruction universe.
This is an original and solid story-telling and is well worth checking out.
Read the Amazon ‘blurb”, and be prepared for something even better.
David Bruns is part of the team of authors known as “Two Navy Guys”, which includes J. R. Olsen, and I have already read their “Death of a Pawn”, which is a part of their Weapons of Mass Destruction universe.
This is an original and solid story-telling and is well worth checking out.
December 23, 2017
This is a good science fiction book in which has people in a futuristic society communicating telepathically. The author blends a combination of Star Trek with 1984 in which the society is controlled by a supreme being or one who controls everything that goes on in the society. The main characters, Maribel and Reese are only trying to do what is best for their family and find themselves running for their lives and those of their children. It is a good book that brings about the futuristic government with technology inn a way that brings those who want to escape the mind control tactics together.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 31, 2017
Wow. Maribel is a new mother of twins but being gifted by them could prove dangerous. This is a mix of scifi and psychological thriller It’s impossible to not finish as soon as possible to find out what happens at the end. David Bruns is one awesome writer. Received a free book.
January 4, 2018
A good start to a new series. I enjoyed this book and the characters. It was fast-paced, sci-fi adventure that had me flipping pages until the end.
December 26, 2018
Decent. Liked the world building, but almost wish there was more.
May 25, 2016
I was hopeful for Irradiance but it just did not deliver. The premise is interesting but the novel fails to develop any real unique ideas or perspective on the dystopian society. A weak ending sunk it to a 2-star book for me.
Maribel is a young astronomer living in a telepathically-linked totalitarian society on a planet called Sindra, sometime in the future. All citizens are required to communicate telepathically through a crystal implant placed on their forehead. The crystal is basically a mood ring, changes color depending on feelings of the wearer. Maribel and her partner Reese get two children, both genetically engineered and birthed via surrogates or some kind of in vitro system (Maribel did not carry them). As time passes, Maribel discovers an awful truth, the sun is reaching the end of its life cycle. The world is coming to an end and they must escape with their children to a new world.
For a young adult audience, there is some good action, some interesting main characters, and some entertaining elements. It has the feel of a TV pilot, laying a lot of the plot elements out, trying to get you hooked for the next episode, IOW "a glimpse of things to come." The author wants to get you interested in the Dream Guild Chronicles series, but, in my opinion, did not focus enough time on making a quality pilot episode. It felt like too much attention was paid to serving the series rather than the novel.
The premise and summary seem pretty straightforward in terms of a dystopian drama but the novel tries to develop a number of themes simultaneously. For example, the personal and societal impact of telepathic communication. The crystal telepathy is explored in places but not with much depth. It also felt at times as if the characters cannot read the crystal colors or sense anything from one another. Characters routinely lie or conceal the truth despite this new ability. You also get the impression there is something unique and special about Maribel's children. However, this hook is only given a glancing blow in 275 pages.
The characters also seem to forget the biggest revelation of the whole book: their world is ending!!!
Everything they know is going to die, yet they are largely preoccupied by their personal lives, careers, and avoiding scrutiny from the government. Their ultimate plan for escaping Sindra and finding a new home is cobbled together quickly and is executed with surprising ease. It was difficult to believe such subversive acts could be done in a telepathic totalitarian society.
I was hoping for an interesting dystopia, but the author borrows heavily from The Giver, with some influence from Logan's Run. I love dystopian fiction but am always disappointed when authors choose to copy and paste previous established bad societies, then avoid social commentary or philosophical discussions.
The straw man antagonists were disappointing. The good guys are smart, compassionate and attractive while the bad guys are stupid, malicious, and ugly. They were like the villains from a Disney movie. Also, for some reason, they do everything themselves, without any henchmen, guards, soldiers, etc.
I was hoping the ending would tie things together better and give me what I was looking for but it did not. It was open ended, and failed to satisfy. Irradiance is more like Act I in a longer story, failing to explain much plot-wise in 275 pages. A stronger ending would've bumped this YA dystopia up to 3 stars but instead we get more of a "to be continued" ending.
Irradiance has some nice prose, interesting pieces, but the complete picture is unfocused and inconclusive. Perhaps the sequels will begin putting all of this together but for the first of the series to be so underwhelming, I doubt most readers will be excited to continue to book two or three.
Maribel is a young astronomer living in a telepathically-linked totalitarian society on a planet called Sindra, sometime in the future. All citizens are required to communicate telepathically through a crystal implant placed on their forehead. The crystal is basically a mood ring, changes color depending on feelings of the wearer. Maribel and her partner Reese get two children, both genetically engineered and birthed via surrogates or some kind of in vitro system (Maribel did not carry them). As time passes, Maribel discovers an awful truth, the sun is reaching the end of its life cycle. The world is coming to an end and they must escape with their children to a new world.
For a young adult audience, there is some good action, some interesting main characters, and some entertaining elements. It has the feel of a TV pilot, laying a lot of the plot elements out, trying to get you hooked for the next episode, IOW "a glimpse of things to come." The author wants to get you interested in the Dream Guild Chronicles series, but, in my opinion, did not focus enough time on making a quality pilot episode. It felt like too much attention was paid to serving the series rather than the novel.
The premise and summary seem pretty straightforward in terms of a dystopian drama but the novel tries to develop a number of themes simultaneously. For example, the personal and societal impact of telepathic communication. The crystal telepathy is explored in places but not with much depth. It also felt at times as if the characters cannot read the crystal colors or sense anything from one another. Characters routinely lie or conceal the truth despite this new ability. You also get the impression there is something unique and special about Maribel's children. However, this hook is only given a glancing blow in 275 pages.
The characters also seem to forget the biggest revelation of the whole book: their world is ending!!!
Everything they know is going to die, yet they are largely preoccupied by their personal lives, careers, and avoiding scrutiny from the government. Their ultimate plan for escaping Sindra and finding a new home is cobbled together quickly and is executed with surprising ease. It was difficult to believe such subversive acts could be done in a telepathic totalitarian society.
I was hoping for an interesting dystopia, but the author borrows heavily from The Giver, with some influence from Logan's Run. I love dystopian fiction but am always disappointed when authors choose to copy and paste previous established bad societies, then avoid social commentary or philosophical discussions.
The straw man antagonists were disappointing. The good guys are smart, compassionate and attractive while the bad guys are stupid, malicious, and ugly. They were like the villains from a Disney movie. Also, for some reason, they do everything themselves, without any henchmen, guards, soldiers, etc.
I was hoping the ending would tie things together better and give me what I was looking for but it did not. It was open ended, and failed to satisfy. Irradiance is more like Act I in a longer story, failing to explain much plot-wise in 275 pages. A stronger ending would've bumped this YA dystopia up to 3 stars but instead we get more of a "to be continued" ending.
Irradiance has some nice prose, interesting pieces, but the complete picture is unfocused and inconclusive. Perhaps the sequels will begin putting all of this together but for the first of the series to be so underwhelming, I doubt most readers will be excited to continue to book two or three.
July 29, 2015
You may note how I am emphasizing the word “classic” when calling this book a Utopian. We’ve almost forgotten what the difference is between Utopian and Dystopian in science fiction, and the recent inundation of dystopian books hasn’t helped. Many of them are actually utopian, but have been improperly categorized because dystopian is the hot buzz-word the same way paranormal was five years ago, and magical fantasy was five years before that.
Classic utopianism in science fiction has roots with George Orwell, Aldous Huxley and Margret Atwood. They set the stage with a perfectly constructed society that functions in a state of utopia, then the book (through story and characters) slowly peels back the pristine paint to show the gritty truth and layers of hidden wallpaper underneath. I love classic Utopian. It’s my favorite genre. I wasn’t aware that’s what Irradiance was when I started, but I was in for a most lovely surprise.
The blurb for Irradiance reads like it might be utopian, but I’ve been disappointed so often recently by the blurb being better than the book, or ending up with yet another ‘teenage love-triangle dystopian’ blech. I went in with a deep breath, a bit of hope and simply expecting some science fiction. Right off the bat, I was reminded of Atwood. Then, a chapter later- hints of Huxley. A few chapters later, and there... there was the Orwell.
I smiled. I exhaled. I read on in bliss.
Bringing up my three favorite authors in the genre is not my way of saying the author, Bruns, was trying to mimic them – far from it. He has a strong voice all his own; but it’s impossible to write in this genre with out shadows and ghosts of those classical writers following your words – if you do it well. And, Bruns did it very well. I am now a Bruns reader for life.
The opening was a bit confusing. It’s one of those openings that makes more sense in the next chapter than it does as it is taking place. I can see how a few readers may set the book down, but I encourage you to read on into chapter 3 before deciding.
The book does have the expected hallmarks of a classical utopian – the overseer, the community, the breeding program, the secret society and the awakening of the character’s understanding that Utopia comes with a price. This can make it a touch predictable, but interwoven into this are some unique ideas that keep it unpredictable enough to be enjoyable.
I recommend this book for anyone who loves classic utopian sci-fi.
I was provided a copy by the publisher with the request for honest feedback.
Classic utopianism in science fiction has roots with George Orwell, Aldous Huxley and Margret Atwood. They set the stage with a perfectly constructed society that functions in a state of utopia, then the book (through story and characters) slowly peels back the pristine paint to show the gritty truth and layers of hidden wallpaper underneath. I love classic Utopian. It’s my favorite genre. I wasn’t aware that’s what Irradiance was when I started, but I was in for a most lovely surprise.
The blurb for Irradiance reads like it might be utopian, but I’ve been disappointed so often recently by the blurb being better than the book, or ending up with yet another ‘teenage love-triangle dystopian’ blech. I went in with a deep breath, a bit of hope and simply expecting some science fiction. Right off the bat, I was reminded of Atwood. Then, a chapter later- hints of Huxley. A few chapters later, and there... there was the Orwell.
I smiled. I exhaled. I read on in bliss.
Bringing up my three favorite authors in the genre is not my way of saying the author, Bruns, was trying to mimic them – far from it. He has a strong voice all his own; but it’s impossible to write in this genre with out shadows and ghosts of those classical writers following your words – if you do it well. And, Bruns did it very well. I am now a Bruns reader for life.
The opening was a bit confusing. It’s one of those openings that makes more sense in the next chapter than it does as it is taking place. I can see how a few readers may set the book down, but I encourage you to read on into chapter 3 before deciding.
The book does have the expected hallmarks of a classical utopian – the overseer, the community, the breeding program, the secret society and the awakening of the character’s understanding that Utopia comes with a price. This can make it a touch predictable, but interwoven into this are some unique ideas that keep it unpredictable enough to be enjoyable.
I recommend this book for anyone who loves classic utopian sci-fi.
I was provided a copy by the publisher with the request for honest feedback.
October 31, 2014
22297201The Community is your first responsibility as a Citizen.
The Community is your mate. When you are alone, we are together.
All are welcome in the Community. White is the color of all colors.
The resources of the Community belong to the Community.
The mind is the true voice of a Citizen.
The ultimate tragedy is not the oppression and cruelty by the bad people but the silence over that by the good people. - Martin Luther King, Jr.
Sindra. A world where minds are joined, vocalization is punishable by ‘recycling’ and dystopia is more than just a word. Irradiance begins with murder, and leads the reader through levels of mental and psychological programming, space-jump technology and time-space continuum's, as is to be expected from any dystopian fantasy. But then, it grows, deepens to a story of life under totalitarian governments, secrets and lies, and the bonds of family, bonds that must be hidden away from a regime that sees no value in kindness or love, no strength in free thought. Which is rather oxymoronic considering the presence of two statues in “The Hall” – the statues of Freedom and Knowledge.
A world of euphemisms, where “processing” is just another word for euthanize, and cruelty is oh-so-cold.
Honestly, I am not a big fan of dystopian novels. They are just too ‘real’ in their cold, bitter vision of a world with no color, no joy, no true happiness. There was much to send chills over my skin in Irradiance. But to tell you true, the very bleakness of the world of Sindra gives warms and promise, hope, to a book that ends by being a story of possibilities, sacrifice, and new beginnings.
Overall? This first of The Dream Guild Chronicles shows stunning promise for lovers of dystopian novels and gives a calculated warning about the direction our own world faces in the new future.
This book was provided to me by the author in return for a realistic review. All thoughts are my own.
The Community is your mate. When you are alone, we are together.
All are welcome in the Community. White is the color of all colors.
The resources of the Community belong to the Community.
The mind is the true voice of a Citizen.
The ultimate tragedy is not the oppression and cruelty by the bad people but the silence over that by the good people. - Martin Luther King, Jr.
Sindra. A world where minds are joined, vocalization is punishable by ‘recycling’ and dystopia is more than just a word. Irradiance begins with murder, and leads the reader through levels of mental and psychological programming, space-jump technology and time-space continuum's, as is to be expected from any dystopian fantasy. But then, it grows, deepens to a story of life under totalitarian governments, secrets and lies, and the bonds of family, bonds that must be hidden away from a regime that sees no value in kindness or love, no strength in free thought. Which is rather oxymoronic considering the presence of two statues in “The Hall” – the statues of Freedom and Knowledge.
A world of euphemisms, where “processing” is just another word for euthanize, and cruelty is oh-so-cold.
Honestly, I am not a big fan of dystopian novels. They are just too ‘real’ in their cold, bitter vision of a world with no color, no joy, no true happiness. There was much to send chills over my skin in Irradiance. But to tell you true, the very bleakness of the world of Sindra gives warms and promise, hope, to a book that ends by being a story of possibilities, sacrifice, and new beginnings.
Overall? This first of The Dream Guild Chronicles shows stunning promise for lovers of dystopian novels and gives a calculated warning about the direction our own world faces in the new future.
This book was provided to me by the author in return for a realistic review. All thoughts are my own.
August 4, 2014
Irradiance is set on a planet called Sindra in a distant solar system. People are genetically engineered and have been for many years; in order to enhance certain traits and eliminate others. Maribel is a scientist who has discovered something; and the government don't want citizens to find out. Maribel decides that she needs to provide this information to the other citizens regardless of the dangers to her or her family and friends if she does it.
Its a well written story with a good plot. There are some parts that are similiar to 1984, but David Burns has added some twists in order to make it his own and more unique to him. the writing is well paced/ The characters are believeable and well thought out. I liked the aspect of the characters communictaing telepathically through the crystals that have been implanted in their heads.
David Bruns has created a vivid and detailed world without feeling like he's been too descriptive. He has created some great characters too. The telepathic conversation is just as engaging as a verbal dialogue would be.
All in all this is another good book which I have enjoyed reading.
Its a well written story with a good plot. There are some parts that are similiar to 1984, but David Burns has added some twists in order to make it his own and more unique to him. the writing is well paced/ The characters are believeable and well thought out. I liked the aspect of the characters communictaing telepathically through the crystals that have been implanted in their heads.
David Bruns has created a vivid and detailed world without feeling like he's been too descriptive. He has created some great characters too. The telepathic conversation is just as engaging as a verbal dialogue would be.
All in all this is another good book which I have enjoyed reading.
June 21, 2014
Neatly executed dystopia
In Irradiance, Bruns has created a layered dystopian society full of technological enrichments, without being too heavy-handed in explanation and exposition, that will appeal to most science fiction fans. Without giving away too much, an almost fantasy twist comes in the form of an element used by the villain to control human beings’ natural psychic abilities, but which seems to transcend a strictly scientific base, giving the novel an unusually mystical quality not seen in a lot of straight scifi. While Irradiance left more questions asked than answered, the second book in the trilogy, Sight, is already out to start filling in the missing pieces.
In Irradiance, Bruns has created a layered dystopian society full of technological enrichments, without being too heavy-handed in explanation and exposition, that will appeal to most science fiction fans. Without giving away too much, an almost fantasy twist comes in the form of an element used by the villain to control human beings’ natural psychic abilities, but which seems to transcend a strictly scientific base, giving the novel an unusually mystical quality not seen in a lot of straight scifi. While Irradiance left more questions asked than answered, the second book in the trilogy, Sight, is already out to start filling in the missing pieces.
January 28, 2015
Irradiance is an intriguing story set in a future where the government controls everything and community is number one. Maribel and Reese have a gift, however they soon learn it is almost more trouble than what it is worth, the gift is more of a curse than a blessing.
They live in Sindra a land of strict rules. Communication with others in the community is vital and the crystal that is conveniently implanted in their foreheads allows them to reach others in the network.
Irradiance is a fast paced and exciting novel. I really enjoyed the read and can't wait to see what comes next in Sight, book two of the trilogy. To sum it up it is 1984 cross with Star Trek.
They live in Sindra a land of strict rules. Communication with others in the community is vital and the crystal that is conveniently implanted in their foreheads allows them to reach others in the network.
Irradiance is a fast paced and exciting novel. I really enjoyed the read and can't wait to see what comes next in Sight, book two of the trilogy. To sum it up it is 1984 cross with Star Trek.
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