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Falling Up
Post-apocalyptic fiction.
552 pages, Paperback
Published February 25, 2025
About the author
Rodger E. Carty
2 books11 followersI write hopeful science fiction that turns physics on its head. Character-based stories with heart and a sense of joy and awe.
I'd been wanting to write most of my adult life. I wasn't sure how to go about it, and whether I could even write something well enough someone would want to read it. I finally took a correspondence course in the ‘90s. At the end of that, they recommended I submit a short story to a Canada-wide contest. I was one of 66 entries out of 800 to make it to the second round of the Writing for Children's Competition. Their letter (which I still have) was very encouraging. That contest was in '99. The story later became chapter 1 of Falling Up, revised and expanded. This shows that by the time I wrote it, I'd been thinking about the story for more than 30 years. I was thinking about the story, wanting to write, even dreaming about it. Some of those dreams became scenes in the book. I call writing my dream job.
It took a heart attack and bypass surgery for me to finally say it's now or never. I wrote Falling Up the year I turned 70. I'd been saying that I planned on being a late bloomer—it's the only chance I've got! Well, I guess I fulfilled that prediction.
Because I like to make people laugh, you will oftentimes find humour interjected in my stories. When I’m not writing, I love to throw frisbee with friends.
I'd been wanting to write most of my adult life. I wasn't sure how to go about it, and whether I could even write something well enough someone would want to read it. I finally took a correspondence course in the ‘90s. At the end of that, they recommended I submit a short story to a Canada-wide contest. I was one of 66 entries out of 800 to make it to the second round of the Writing for Children's Competition. Their letter (which I still have) was very encouraging. That contest was in '99. The story later became chapter 1 of Falling Up, revised and expanded. This shows that by the time I wrote it, I'd been thinking about the story for more than 30 years. I was thinking about the story, wanting to write, even dreaming about it. Some of those dreams became scenes in the book. I call writing my dream job.
It took a heart attack and bypass surgery for me to finally say it's now or never. I wrote Falling Up the year I turned 70. I'd been saying that I planned on being a late bloomer—it's the only chance I've got! Well, I guess I fulfilled that prediction.
Because I like to make people laugh, you will oftentimes find humour interjected in my stories. When I’m not writing, I love to throw frisbee with friends.
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
April 17, 2026
I picked up Falling Up not knowing what to expect, and honestly. I was completely blown away. Rodger E. Carty has crafted something genuinely special here. Peter is one of the most compelling protagonists I've read in years. The concept of controlling gravity to fly sounds fantastical on the surface, but Carty grounds it in a way that feels earned and real.
What hit me hardest was the stakes. This isn't some whimsical flight-of-fancy story. There's a tyrant king who is utterly terrifying cold, methodical, and willing to massacre an entire village just to send Peter a message. That scene stopped my breath. It's the kind of villain that reminds you why survival stories work: the threat has to be real, and Carty never lets you forget it.
At 583 pages, the book has room to breathe, and it uses every page. The world-building unfolds organically you're never info-dumped, you're just dropped into this dangerous, richly textured world and trusted to keep up. I loved that. Peter's gravity powers are a clever metaphor too it's his unique gift, his curse, and ultimately his only lifeline. That thread runs beautifully through the whole narrative.
The pacing is relentless in the best possible way. Just when you think Peter has a moment to breathe, the world closes in again. And yet it never feels exhausting Carty balances tension with quieter, character-driven moments that make you genuinely care.
This is the kind of book that reminds me why I love reading. Highly, highly recommended especially if you love hI picked up Falling Up not knowing what to expect, and honestly. I was completely blown away. Rodger E. Carty has crafted something genuinely special here. Peter is one of the most compelling protagonists I've read in years. The concept of controlling gravity to fly sounds fantastical on the surface, but Carty grounds it in a way that feels earned and real.
What hit me hardest was the stakes. This isn't some whimsical flight-of-fancy story. There's a tyrant king who is utterly terrifying cold, methodical, and willing to massacre an entire village just to send Peter a message. That scene stopped my breath. It's the kind of villain that reminds you why survival stories work: the threat has to be real, and Carty never lets you forget it.
At 583 pages, the book has room to breathe, and it uses every page. The world-building unfolds organically you're never info dumped, you're just dropped into this dangerous, richly textured world and trusted to keep up. I loved that. Peter's gravity powers are a clever metaphor too, it's his unique gift, his curse, and ultimately his only lifeline. That thread runs beautifully through the whole narrative.
The pacing is relentless in the best possible way. Just when you think Peter has a moment to breathe, the world closes in again. And yet it never feels exhausting. Carty balances tension with quieter, character driven moments that make you genuinely care.
This is the kind of book that reminds me why I love reading. Highly, highly recommended especially if you love high-stakes fantasy with a protagonist worth rooting for. I'll be thinking about this one for a long time.
What hit me hardest was the stakes. This isn't some whimsical flight-of-fancy story. There's a tyrant king who is utterly terrifying cold, methodical, and willing to massacre an entire village just to send Peter a message. That scene stopped my breath. It's the kind of villain that reminds you why survival stories work: the threat has to be real, and Carty never lets you forget it.
At 583 pages, the book has room to breathe, and it uses every page. The world-building unfolds organically you're never info-dumped, you're just dropped into this dangerous, richly textured world and trusted to keep up. I loved that. Peter's gravity powers are a clever metaphor too it's his unique gift, his curse, and ultimately his only lifeline. That thread runs beautifully through the whole narrative.
The pacing is relentless in the best possible way. Just when you think Peter has a moment to breathe, the world closes in again. And yet it never feels exhausting Carty balances tension with quieter, character-driven moments that make you genuinely care.
This is the kind of book that reminds me why I love reading. Highly, highly recommended especially if you love hI picked up Falling Up not knowing what to expect, and honestly. I was completely blown away. Rodger E. Carty has crafted something genuinely special here. Peter is one of the most compelling protagonists I've read in years. The concept of controlling gravity to fly sounds fantastical on the surface, but Carty grounds it in a way that feels earned and real.
What hit me hardest was the stakes. This isn't some whimsical flight-of-fancy story. There's a tyrant king who is utterly terrifying cold, methodical, and willing to massacre an entire village just to send Peter a message. That scene stopped my breath. It's the kind of villain that reminds you why survival stories work: the threat has to be real, and Carty never lets you forget it.
At 583 pages, the book has room to breathe, and it uses every page. The world-building unfolds organically you're never info dumped, you're just dropped into this dangerous, richly textured world and trusted to keep up. I loved that. Peter's gravity powers are a clever metaphor too, it's his unique gift, his curse, and ultimately his only lifeline. That thread runs beautifully through the whole narrative.
The pacing is relentless in the best possible way. Just when you think Peter has a moment to breathe, the world closes in again. And yet it never feels exhausting. Carty balances tension with quieter, character driven moments that make you genuinely care.
This is the kind of book that reminds me why I love reading. Highly, highly recommended especially if you love high-stakes fantasy with a protagonist worth rooting for. I'll be thinking about this one for a long time.
September 18, 2026
Falling Up was a really fun science fiction adventure with a concept that immediately caught my attention. The idea of someone being able to control gravity with his mind is already fascinating, but I liked that Peter's ability isn't simply treated as a cool superpower. It makes him valuable, dangerous, and a target all at the same time.
I enjoyed the post apocalyptic setting too. The world is still trying to recover from a nuclear apocalypse, and Peter's journey through that damaged landscape gives the story a nice sense of uncertainty. You get the feeling that survival isn't just about finding somewhere safe, but about figuring out who can actually be trusted and what kind of future is still possible.
Peter was probably the part of the story I found most interesting. He's not presented as someone simply looking for power or glory. He's trying to rebuild and protect what remains while dealing with people who see his abilities as something they can either control or destroy. That gives his journey more emotional weight.
I also liked the combination of serious themes with the promise of humor and discovery. Science fiction can sometimes become overly technical or dark, so having an adventurous and occasionally funny side makes this feel more accessible.
Overall, Falling Up is an imaginative and entertaining sci-fi story with an unusual central ability, a damaged but fascinating world, and plenty of room for adventure. I'd recommend it to readers who enjoy post apocalyptic fiction, unique powers, character driven stories, and science fiction that doesn't take itself too seriously.
I enjoyed the post apocalyptic setting too. The world is still trying to recover from a nuclear apocalypse, and Peter's journey through that damaged landscape gives the story a nice sense of uncertainty. You get the feeling that survival isn't just about finding somewhere safe, but about figuring out who can actually be trusted and what kind of future is still possible.
Peter was probably the part of the story I found most interesting. He's not presented as someone simply looking for power or glory. He's trying to rebuild and protect what remains while dealing with people who see his abilities as something they can either control or destroy. That gives his journey more emotional weight.
I also liked the combination of serious themes with the promise of humor and discovery. Science fiction can sometimes become overly technical or dark, so having an adventurous and occasionally funny side makes this feel more accessible.
Overall, Falling Up is an imaginative and entertaining sci-fi story with an unusual central ability, a damaged but fascinating world, and plenty of room for adventure. I'd recommend it to readers who enjoy post apocalyptic fiction, unique powers, character driven stories, and science fiction that doesn't take itself too seriously.
July 9, 2026
Falling Up is an imaginative and unforgettable science fiction adventure that kept me hooked from beginning to end. Rodger E. Carty has created a fascinating post-apocalyptic world that feels both dangerous and full of hope, with rich worldbuilding and a story that never loses its sense of wonder.
Peter is a compelling protagonist whose ability to control gravity is far more than just a unique superpowe it becomes the heart of a story about freedom, responsibility, and the courage to stand against oppression. I appreciated how the novel balances exciting action with meaningful character development, making every challenge Peter faces feel personal and emotionally engaging.
The blend of creative science, humor, adventure, and optimism makes this book stand out from typical dystopian fiction. Rather than focusing only on survival, it explores rebuilding, compassion, and the enduring strength of the human spirit.
If you enjoy character-driven science fiction with original ideas, memorable characters, and a story that leaves you feeling inspired, Falling Up is an excellent choice. I highly recommend it and look forward to reading more from Rodger E. Carty.
July 14, 2026
Falling Up is a refreshing and imaginative post-apocalyptic sci-fi adventure that pulled me in from the very beginning. Rodger E. Carty has created a fascinating world trying to rebuild after disaster while introducing a protagonist with an extraordinary ability that feels both unique and surprisingly relatable.
Peter is a character you can’t help but root for. While his ability to control gravity is incredible, his real journey is about so much more—learning what it means to have freedom, carrying the weight of responsibility, and finding hope in a world that has been broken. His story blends action, discovery, and personal growth in a way that keeps the pages turning.
The worldbuilding is creative, the pacing keeps the adventure moving, and the themes of resilience and rebuilding give the story a deeper emotional impact. Fans of sci-fi who enjoy fresh concepts, strong characters, and stories that leave you feeling hopeful will definitely want to add Falling Up to their reading list.
Peter is a character you can’t help but root for. While his ability to control gravity is incredible, his real journey is about so much more—learning what it means to have freedom, carrying the weight of responsibility, and finding hope in a world that has been broken. His story blends action, discovery, and personal growth in a way that keeps the pages turning.
The worldbuilding is creative, the pacing keeps the adventure moving, and the themes of resilience and rebuilding give the story a deeper emotional impact. Fans of sci-fi who enjoy fresh concepts, strong characters, and stories that leave you feeling hopeful will definitely want to add Falling Up to their reading list.
August 19, 2026
Falling Up* sounds like a fascinating blend of post-apocalyptic science fiction, adventure, and imaginative physics. The idea of Peter being able to control gravity gives the story a particularly intriguing hook, especially with the tension between those who see his ability as a gift and those who see him as a threat.
I really like the larger questions woven into the premise freedom, survival, rebuilding humanity, and what happens when extraordinary power falls into the hands of someone who simply wants to live and find his way in a fractured world. The worldbuilding and character-driven approach also make this feel like more than just a traditional action-focused sci-fi story.
The combination of adventure, discovery, humor, and a post-apocalyptic setting makes *Falling Up* sound like an enjoyable read for anyone who likes imaginative science fiction with plenty of ideas behind the story.
A very promising concept with an unusual take on gravity, survival, and human resilience.
I really like the larger questions woven into the premise freedom, survival, rebuilding humanity, and what happens when extraordinary power falls into the hands of someone who simply wants to live and find his way in a fractured world. The worldbuilding and character-driven approach also make this feel like more than just a traditional action-focused sci-fi story.
The combination of adventure, discovery, humor, and a post-apocalyptic setting makes *Falling Up* sound like an enjoyable read for anyone who likes imaginative science fiction with plenty of ideas behind the story.
A very promising concept with an unusual take on gravity, survival, and human resilience.
June 15, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
*Falling Up* is a refreshing and imaginative post-apocalyptic sci-fi adventure that kept me engaged from beginning to end. Rodger E. Carty creates a fascinating world recovering from catastrophe while introducing a protagonist who possesses an extraordinary ability that feels both powerful and deeply human.
Peter is a character you can easily root for. His journey is about much more than controlling gravity; it's about freedom, responsibility, and finding hope in a fractured world. The story balances action, discovery, and thoughtful character development, making it an enjoyable read for fans of science fiction and adventure alike.
The worldbuilding is creative, the pacing keeps the story moving, and the themes of resilience and rebuilding add real depth to the narrative. If you enjoy character-driven sci-fi with unique concepts and an uplifting spirit, *Falling Up* is definitely worth reading. I look forward to seeing more from this author.
*Falling Up* is a refreshing and imaginative post-apocalyptic sci-fi adventure that kept me engaged from beginning to end. Rodger E. Carty creates a fascinating world recovering from catastrophe while introducing a protagonist who possesses an extraordinary ability that feels both powerful and deeply human.
Peter is a character you can easily root for. His journey is about much more than controlling gravity; it's about freedom, responsibility, and finding hope in a fractured world. The story balances action, discovery, and thoughtful character development, making it an enjoyable read for fans of science fiction and adventure alike.
The worldbuilding is creative, the pacing keeps the story moving, and the themes of resilience and rebuilding add real depth to the narrative. If you enjoy character-driven sci-fi with unique concepts and an uplifting spirit, *Falling Up* is definitely worth reading. I look forward to seeing more from this author.
July 16, 2026
This book reminded me why I fell in love with science fiction in the first place. Falling Up offers a fascinating concept, but it's the emotional journey that truly makes it shine. Peter's struggle to use his incredible gift for good while facing people who fear or want to exploit him felt realistic and inspiring. The worldbuilding is rich without becoming overwhelming, allowing readers to naturally immerse themselves in this unique future shaped by the aftermath of catastrophe. I loved how the author explored hope instead of despair, showing that even after unimaginable loss, people can still dream of something better. The writing is engaging, the characters are believable, and the story carries a wonderful sense of optimism. I found myself invested from beginning to end and would enthusiastically recommend this novel to science fiction fans and anyone looking for an adventure that combines action, imagination, and genuine heart. It's a fantastic read that deserves a wide audience.
August 13, 2026
Falling Up is an engaging and imaginative post apocalyptic sci-fi adventure that captured my attention from the start. Rodger E. Carty does an excellent job creating a fascinating world struggling to rebuild after a devastating disaster, while introducing a protagonist with a truly unique ability.
Peter is a character who is easy to connect with and root for. Although his ability to manipulate gravity is extraordinary, his journey goes far beyond his powers. His struggles with freedom, responsibility, and finding hope in a damaged world give the story real emotional depth. The combination of action, discovery, and personal growth makes Falling Up an exciting read that keeps you wanting to know what happens next.
Peter is a character who is easy to connect with and root for. Although his ability to manipulate gravity is extraordinary, his journey goes far beyond his powers. His struggles with freedom, responsibility, and finding hope in a damaged world give the story real emotional depth. The combination of action, discovery, and personal growth makes Falling Up an exciting read that keeps you wanting to know what happens next.
July 6, 2026
Falling Up is a captivating science fiction adventure that combines imaginative concepts with heartfelt storytelling. Rodger E. Carty creates a fascinating post-apocalyptic world where hope, courage, and the responsibility that comes with extraordinary power take center stage. With engaging characters, creative worldbuilding, and an uplifting sense of discovery, this novel is an enjoyable read for fans of thoughtful, character-driven sci-fi.
July 7, 2026
Falling Up delivers a refreshing blend of post-apocalyptic science fiction and character-driven storytelling. Peter is a compelling protagonist whose ability to manipulate gravity creates both breathtaking moments and meaningful moral dilemmas. The worldbuilding is imaginative, the pacing keeps the story moving, and the themes of hope, resilience, and freedom resonate throughout. Fans of thoughtful sci-fi with memorable characters will find plenty to enjoy.
August 7, 2026
Falling Up is an imaginative and captivating science-fiction adventure that pulled me in from the beginning. Peter’s ability to control gravity creates such an intriguing premise, while the post apocalyptic world adds depth, danger, and plenty of emotional stakes. I really enjoyed the character driven storytelling, vivid worldbuilding, and sense of discovery throughout the book. An engaging and thoughtful read with a great balance of adventure, humor, and heart.
December 19, 2025
Falling Up turns the idea of flying into something fresh and believable, grounding it in physics while keeping the wonder alive. The flying scenes are vivid and joyful, you can feel the freedom and excitement through the characters’ reactions.
A smart, imaginative, and engaging read that blends science, curiosity, and pure fun.
A smart, imaginative, and engaging read that blends science, curiosity, and pure fun.
July 10, 2026
Peter is a compelling protagonist whose ability to control gravity is far more than just a unique superpowe it becomes the heart of a story about freedom, responsibility, and the courage to stand against oppression. I appreciated how the novel balances exciting action with meaningful character development, making every challenge Peter faces feel personal and emotionally engaging.
July 12, 2026
Falling Up is the kind of science fiction that reminds you why you fell in love with the genre in the first place. The concept of controlling gravity is fascinating, but what truly makes this story shine is the way the author explores the weight of power, freedom, and hope in a world struggling to rebuild after unimaginable devastation.
August 18, 2026
What a captivating premise! The idea of a post-apocalyptic world where someone can control gravity with their mind instantly hooked me. Peter's journey as a trader navigating a fractured landscape is compelling, and the blend of imaginative physics with an underlying sense of hope makes this a standout read. Highly recommended for sci-fi fans!
August 18, 2026
Falling Up is a breath of fresh air in the post-apocalyptic genre. Instead of just bleak survival, it brings in a genuine sense of discovery and unexpected humor. The character-driven narrative makes you care deeply about Peter and the fragile world he’s trying to help rebuild. An absolute joy to read from start to finish
August 18, 2026
It's rare to find a science fiction adventure that is both thrilling and genuinely uplifting. The worldbuilding feels rich and earned, and Peter is a fantastic protagonist. The unique spin on physics adds a layer of wonder that sets this book apart. A brilliant read that leaves you feeling inspired!
August 22, 2026
I really enjoyed Falling Up. It’s a thoughtful and engaging read with a message that stays with you even after you put the book down. Rodger does a good job of making the story feel genuine and relatable, and I found myself thinking about some of its ideas afterward. Overall, a meaningful book that I’d be happy to recommend to others.
April 23, 2025
The friendship between Peter, Alice, and Terence warmed my heart. I didn’t expect to be so emotionally attached to characters in a sci-fi story about flying, but here we are. The physics aspects are cleverly written and the emotional depth surprised me. Bravo.
May 12, 2025
Falling Up is an imaginative and heartwarming tale. The concept of flying via mind controlled gravity is exciting, but it’s the emotional depth of the characters that really hooks you. A delightful blend of science fiction and feel good moments.
July 6, 2026
Falling Up delivers an imaginative blend of post-apocalyptic science fiction and compelling character development. Rodger E. Carty crafts a fascinating world where extraordinary abilities become both a blessing and a burden.
July 7, 2026
With inventive worldbuilding and a thought-provoking premise, Falling Up explores the meaning of freedom, responsibility, and hope in a fractured future. It's an engaging adventure from beginning to end.
July 28, 2026
Falling Up is one of those science fiction novels that stays with you long after you finish it. Rodger E. Carty has created a fascinating post apocalyptic world that feels both imaginative and believable, and the concept of controlling gravity is explored in a way that feels fresh and exciting.
August 18, 2026
The concept of gravity being both a gift and a threat is brilliantly explored here. I loved how the story balances high-stakes tension with despots hunting Peter down, with a deeply human core. It’s inventive, engaging, and keeps you turning the pages to see what choice Peter has to make next
August 18, 2026
From the moment I read about Peter's unique ability to control gravity, I knew I was in for a special ride. The narrative weaves action, deep moral choices, and brilliant concepts together seamlessly. It’s smart, imaginative, and keeps you completely invested in humanity's survival.
August 18, 2026
Falling Up delivers an epic adventure with real heart. The post-apocalyptic setting feels authentic, and the addition of clever physics-based powers gives it a totally unique flavor. I loved the balance between the gritty realities of a fractured world and the enduring hope of its characters.
August 18, 2026
The author has created a fascinating universe where a simple gift like controlling gravity becomes the center of a massive power struggle. Peter's perspective as a trader adds a grounded, realistic feel to an otherwise extraordinary sci-fi landscape. An absolute page-turner!
August 18, 2026
What an incredible journey! Not only does Falling Up offer a thrilling conflict against despots in a post-nuclear world, but it also weaves in clever humor and wonderful character moments. It's imaginative sci-fi that reminds you why you fell in love with the genre in the first place.
August 18, 2026
So often, sci-fi focuses purely on tech or scale, but Falling Up puts its heart squarely in its characters. Peter’s struggle to protect humanity while surviving a world that views him as a weapon is gripping. The pacing is fantastic, and the world feels wonderfully alive
August 18, 2026
An imaginative masterpiece! The premise of bending gravity in a world trying to heal from a nuclear apocalypse is sheer genius. It’s gripping, beautifully paced, and carries an uplifting message about freedom and resilience. I couldn't put it down!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews