Phenomenon: Psyche and Ember - A Twisted Pair

by Jonathan Spain-Collins

The Nartakaturian Governor Esmara has been killed by the evil conqueror Orvak the Relentless. Esmara’s only daughter, Princess Etsilla and a band of survivors from a massacre orchestrated by Orvak, made the choice to leave their planet Nartakatur of the Eayila system to find a new home that they can feel safe. Before leaving, Etsilla took Orvak’s valued relic with her, the Mura Stone, an orb which has the power to absorb and counter all elements. Throughout their search of the universe the nartakaturians have found the planet Earth and began to settle there. As Etsilla went out on a reconnaissance mission alone in the Blue Hills Reservation near Boston, Massachusetts, she ran into a lone hiker, a young African American woman named Patricia Blackburn. Out of care for others, Patricia regularly visited the nartakaturians and gave them more food to ration. In return for Patricia’s kindness Etsilla and her companions transferred some of her telekinesis powers onto her after hearing her story of child trauma. Through the betrayal of Etsilla’s friend Orion, the governors of the remaining planets of the Eayila system found out that her and her companions were living on Earth and planned to destroy it. Now Etsilla, Patricia and the remaining nartakaturians are forced to defend their home from this invasion. What will happen from this war? Find out in this thrilling tale of Psyche and Ember.

27 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 13, 2025

Reviews

[Lauren Jason · Rating 5 out of 5]

Psyche and Ember is a fast-paced, emotionally charged tale of survival, betrayal, and unlikely friendship. Princess Etsilla’s journey from exiled royalty to Earthbound warrior pairs beautifully with Patricia Blackburn’s rise from trauma to power. The worldbuilding is rich, the stakes are high, and the characters are easy to root for. A must-read for fans of sci-fi with soul.

[Emily Jacob · Rating 5 out of 5]

Imagine going on a quiet hike and suddenly meeting an alien princess who gives you superpowers yep, that’s exactly what happens in this wild and awesome story! Phenomenon: Psyche and Ember – A Twisted Pair is packed with space drama, cool gadgets, and a lot of heart. Patricia is just a regular girl trying to be kind, and next thing you know, she’s helping defend Earth from a galactic invasion!

It’s like a space adventure and superhero story rolled into one. There’s action, surprises, and even a little bit of betrayal (boo, Orion!). A fun and thrilling read that shows anyone can make a difference, even if they’re just trying to help others. Perfect for young sci-fi fans and grown-up readers who love a good, out-of-this-world tale!

[Sarah Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is like a superhero movie mixed with aliens, space travel, and big feelings and it totally works! Phenomenon: Psyche and Ember. A Twisted Pair tells the story of a brave alien princess and a kind-hearted Earth girl who team up to save the planet. There's a powerful magic stone, space villains, and even superpowers like telekinesis (moving things with your mind!).

The story is exciting, fast-paced, and full of heart. It shows how friendship, courage, and standing up for what’s right can make anyone a hero, even if you're just a regular person on a hike. A fun, adventurous read for sci-fi lovers of all ages!

[Faidat Muhammad · Rating 5 out of 5]

An ambitious and emotionally charged sci-fi novel, Phenomenon: Psyche and Ember, A Twisted Pair explores what happens when two worlds and two powerful women collide. Jonathan Spain-Collins brings depth to both the fantastical and the human, as Princess Etsilla and Patricia Blackburn fight to defend Earth from cosmic forces bent on destruction. The themes of trauma, loyalty, and identity are skillfully woven into a plot full of intrigue and action. A compelling fusion of futuristic adventure and heartfelt storytelling that leaves a lasting impression.

[Florence James · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jonathan Spain-Collins presents a captivating sci-fi saga in Phenomenon: Psyche and Ember. A Twisted Pair, blending high stakes interplanetary drama with deeply personal storytelling. The alliance between alien royalty Etsilla and Earth native Patricia Blackburn is both powerful and poignant, as they face betrayal, loss, and a looming war. The narrative is imaginative, fast-moving, and emotionally resonant, with themes of empowerment and survival at its core. A strong entry into the realm of speculative fiction, this novel will appeal to readers who crave action, heart, and originality.

[Philip · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story completely drew me in! The journey of Princess Etsilla and the Nartakaturians fleeing their destroyed planet is both heart-wrenching and inspiring. I loved the way the author explored themes of loss, resilience, and hope. Patricia’s character adds such a human touch to the story, and the blend of sci-fi with emotional depth is handled beautifully. The suspense about the looming invasion kept me on the edge of my seat!

[Charlotte Adams · Rating 4 out of 5]

A thrilling adventure with real emotional weight. I felt for Etsilla and her companions as they searched for a safe home while carrying the burden of their past. The Mura Stone concept was fascinating, and Patricia’s kindness and growth added a touching human element. The betrayal and upcoming conflict made the story tense and engaging, though I wished a few scenes had more world-building details. Overall, a very enjoyable read!

[Lyndi · Rating 4 out of 5]

An emotionally charged sci-fi story that keeps you hooked. The characters are relatable despite their alien origins, and the themes of friendship, betrayal, and sacrifice hit hard. Patricia’s role in connecting humans and Nartakaturians was especially touching. The pacing was excellent, though at times I wanted a bit more insight into the planets and cultures of the Eayila system. Still, a compelling read with great storytelling.

[James · Rating 5 out of 5]

I couldn’t put this book down! The mix of interstellar adventure and human emotion is so well done. Etsilla’s courage, Patricia’s compassion, and the looming threat from Orvak’s allies make for a story full of suspense and heart. I particularly appreciated the way trauma and empathy were handled, very thoughtful. This book is a perfect blend of action, emotion, and imagination.

[Agnes · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Twisted Pair is an incredible journey through loss, courage, and hope. I loved watching Etsilla grow as a leader and how her bond with Patricia shows the power of kindness and trust. The stakes are high, the battles intense, and the story is layered with emotion. The mix of sci-fi adventure and heartfelt moments makes this one of the most memorable reads I’ve had in a while. Highly recommended!

[Alvina Adams · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story gripped me from the first page! The journey of Etsilla and her companions fleeing their destroyed world is both thrilling and heartbreaking. I loved how Patricia’s kindness bridges the human and alien worlds, adding such warmth to the narrative. The suspense, betrayal, and looming war kept me invested all the way through. Truly a remarkable blend of action and emotion.

[Roselia · Rating 4 out of 5]

An engaging and heartfelt sci-fi tale. Etsilla’s determination and the struggles of the Nartakaturians feel real and relatable, despite their alien origins. The story touches on themes of trauma, empathy, and courage, which I found very moving. Some parts could have used a bit more detail about the wider universe, but the emotional core and thrilling plot more than make up for it.