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The Call of Abaddon
To save the human race from the ultimate cosmic threat, Jason will have to become something far beyond human.
New Toronto is a fractured city-arcology on a dying Earth, where hope is as scarce as clean air. For Jason, survival means scavenging the ruins beneath the city — where any day could be his last.
But everything changes when an ancient alien obelisk — the ABADDON BEACON — attacks Jason’s mind from afar, making his dormant psychic abilities spiral out of control. After barely surviving Abaddon’s psionic possession attempt, Jason and his companions are left with no choice but to find the obelisk before it consumes him.
Problem is, Abaddon has been sealed within a top-secret United Earth Federation research lab for over a century, silently worming its alien technologies into human society, presented as gifts with a far darker purpose. The Beacon doesn’t just speak; it infects, projecting its viral energies far beyond the walls of the lab.
And Jason isn’t the only one hearing Abaddon’s call. Across the Solar System, a ruthless Emperor will stop at nothing to seize the Beacon’s power for himself.
As the Imperial invasion of Earth looms, Jason’s quest to confront Abaddon will force him into a critical choice: master the strange power growing inside him ... or succumb to the Beacon's godlike influence, ushering in mankind's doom.
The Call of Abaddon is a gripping mythological tale of humanity's struggle to overcome an unimaginable darkness, blending the political intrigue of Dune with the eldritch terror of Lovecraft, and the explosive world-building of The Expanse.
New Toronto is a fractured city-arcology on a dying Earth, where hope is as scarce as clean air. For Jason, survival means scavenging the ruins beneath the city — where any day could be his last.
But everything changes when an ancient alien obelisk — the ABADDON BEACON — attacks Jason’s mind from afar, making his dormant psychic abilities spiral out of control. After barely surviving Abaddon’s psionic possession attempt, Jason and his companions are left with no choice but to find the obelisk before it consumes him.
Problem is, Abaddon has been sealed within a top-secret United Earth Federation research lab for over a century, silently worming its alien technologies into human society, presented as gifts with a far darker purpose. The Beacon doesn’t just speak; it infects, projecting its viral energies far beyond the walls of the lab.
And Jason isn’t the only one hearing Abaddon’s call. Across the Solar System, a ruthless Emperor will stop at nothing to seize the Beacon’s power for himself.
As the Imperial invasion of Earth looms, Jason’s quest to confront Abaddon will force him into a critical choice: master the strange power growing inside him ... or succumb to the Beacon's godlike influence, ushering in mankind's doom.
The Call of Abaddon is a gripping mythological tale of humanity's struggle to overcome an unimaginable darkness, blending the political intrigue of Dune with the eldritch terror of Lovecraft, and the explosive world-building of The Expanse.
- GenresScience Fiction
413 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 29, 2025
2 people are currently reading
66 people want to read
About the author
Colin Searle
1 book10 followersHi, I'm an artist and author from Toronto, Canada! My first book, THE CALL OF ABADDON, is coming on July 29th, 2025!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
June 20, 2025
We begin underground. Not just in setting—but in tone, in tension, in the quiet dread that something ancient and wrong is waking, and it's in your bloodstream. Colin Searle doesn’t write a story; he opens a psychic wound and asks you to look inside.
This isn’t a book. It’s a salvage run through the subconscious. Each chapter clangs like metal on permacrete, each line drips with the kind of dread that feels engineered—manufactured, even. Which fits, because in Searle’s world, even your thoughts might be prototypes from a failed government experiment.
The plot? Sure, it’s there. Jason is a reluctant psionic timebomb running on Osmium, a neural suppressant that keeps the voice of Abaddon at bay. But this voice isn’t your standard “bad guy monologue.” It’s cosmic. It’s sentient. It wants you to ascend—whatever that means—and it doesn’t care what’s left of you when you get there.
Searle doesn’t hold your hand. He hands you a flashlight with flickering batteries and sends you into the undercity with a sarcastic robot, a bird with opinions, and trauma survivors with plasma blades. The beauty? You start to see yourself in them. In the addiction. In the loyalty. In the glitching memories.
There’s a combat robot named Talos who drops deadpan lines like ancient poetry. There’s a team dynamic that never tries to sell you on “chosen family” tropes—it just shows you what survival looks like in pieces, then lets you fit them together. And then there’s the silence in between—the long pauses before the whisper comes again: “Find us.”
Is the prose clean? Yes. Clinical, at times. Like a surgeon’s notes mid-operation. Is it polished? More than it needs to be. The real friction is psychological, not syntactic. You don’t read this book to be comforted. You read it to feel what it’s like when the enemy is coded into your past.
It’s a psionic dystopia for those who think Ender’s Game was too forgiving and Neuromancer wasn’t weird enough. It’s for readers who don’t want answers—only the thrill of asking better questions.
What is a mind if it was never fully yours to begin with?
What is freedom if you were programmed to resist it?
What happens when the part of you that wants to live… isn't human?
The Call of Abaddon doesn’t pretend to know. It just turns the signal on and lets you listen.
----------
I received a free advanced copy of this book, but that does not affect the impartiality of my review.
This isn’t a book. It’s a salvage run through the subconscious. Each chapter clangs like metal on permacrete, each line drips with the kind of dread that feels engineered—manufactured, even. Which fits, because in Searle’s world, even your thoughts might be prototypes from a failed government experiment.
The plot? Sure, it’s there. Jason is a reluctant psionic timebomb running on Osmium, a neural suppressant that keeps the voice of Abaddon at bay. But this voice isn’t your standard “bad guy monologue.” It’s cosmic. It’s sentient. It wants you to ascend—whatever that means—and it doesn’t care what’s left of you when you get there.
Searle doesn’t hold your hand. He hands you a flashlight with flickering batteries and sends you into the undercity with a sarcastic robot, a bird with opinions, and trauma survivors with plasma blades. The beauty? You start to see yourself in them. In the addiction. In the loyalty. In the glitching memories.
There’s a combat robot named Talos who drops deadpan lines like ancient poetry. There’s a team dynamic that never tries to sell you on “chosen family” tropes—it just shows you what survival looks like in pieces, then lets you fit them together. And then there’s the silence in between—the long pauses before the whisper comes again: “Find us.”
Is the prose clean? Yes. Clinical, at times. Like a surgeon’s notes mid-operation. Is it polished? More than it needs to be. The real friction is psychological, not syntactic. You don’t read this book to be comforted. You read it to feel what it’s like when the enemy is coded into your past.
It’s a psionic dystopia for those who think Ender’s Game was too forgiving and Neuromancer wasn’t weird enough. It’s for readers who don’t want answers—only the thrill of asking better questions.
What is a mind if it was never fully yours to begin with?
What is freedom if you were programmed to resist it?
What happens when the part of you that wants to live… isn't human?
The Call of Abaddon doesn’t pretend to know. It just turns the signal on and lets you listen.
----------
I received a free advanced copy of this book, but that does not affect the impartiality of my review.
June 16, 2025
In the year 2263, Jason’s world and home under New Toronto is a world unlike any other. Under a dome protecting the city from raging toxic storms, New Toronto and its inhabitants are at war against an Imperial Invasion from across the Solar System while simultaneously fighting a separate battle within against a nanophage epidemic infecting humans, robots, and cyborgs alike. Haunted by strange visions and a voice in his head, Jason’s life in a hidden underground enclave is thrown into chaos when latent psychic abilities start to threaten both himself and everyone else around him. As the United Federation of Earth combats the Imperial forces in space, with the help of his brother David and friend Sam, Jason hears the calls of the mythical and extraterrestrial obelisk Abaddon that promises salvation from his uncontrollable powers, as well as information about his mysterious past. Serving as the first entry in the Abaddon Cycle series and Colin Searle’s debut novel, the Call of Abaddon is an ambitious sci-fi epic that mixes cyberpunk elements (bio and nanopunk flavors specifically) with the scale of a space opera. Featuring flashy action sequences, creative and expansive concepts, and a cast of scrappy characters, the Call of Abaddon is a promising start to a unique and futuristic version of Toronto and beyond!
One of the quintessential must-haves for a good sci-fi action-adventure romp is a solid premise paired with an exciting plot, and that is where the Call of Abaddon is strongest. The mysterious and powerful obelisk Abaddon is not only a unique twist on an extraterrestrial contact/technology, but is also a strong recurring visual perfectly featured in the book’s outstanding cover design illustrated by Searle himself. New Toronto’s futuristic cyberpunk aesthetic and technology alone is cool enough, but the addition of automatons, cyborgs, and psychic abilities provide a lot of great material to work with. In addition to New Toronto’s under the dome-style setup, the story also features underground enclaves that feel like a whole different world. The Call of Abaddon’s plot is also quite complex and is very much an ensemble cast story with a large number of characters and conflicting factions. Over the course of its run, the novel juggles several different storylines such as Jason’s psychic possessions by Abaddon, the Imperial Empire’s conquest against the United Federation of Earth, the spread of the infectious and cancerous phage, a dystopian society influenced by a corrupt clergy, and finally Jason, David and Sam’s shared history of escaping from the experimental Science Institute years ago. While there is a lot going on, by the end of the novel, each of the seemingly unrelated storylines are shown to be deeply connected to each other, all being traced back to Abaddon.
Besides the imaginative world and sci-fi aesthetics goodness, for me the Call of Abaddon is at its best during its high-energy thriller sections or when it focuses on fast-paced action. Mixing psychic powers with cybernetic weapons means that the fighting and action scenes never get old, with Seale making good use of the post-apocalyptic and underground landscapes within his written fight choreography. A notable highlight is Sam’s unique energy sword that is something like a cross between Indiana Jones’ bullwhip and lightsaber which is just plain cool. Jason and co.’s above ground excursions investigating Abaddon are also compelling while the alternating space opera battles and strategizing chapters nicely break up and support the slower underground ones.
While character motivations early-on appear to be quite straightforward, as the story progresses, the Call of Abaddon has far more substance and intent that it would initially appear. While not highlighted quite as often as other plot points, the clergy and above-ground dystopian system of New Toronto pose intriguing ideas in regard to religion and politics. Clearly intended to be a foil to the Imperial Empire’s stark and ruthless governing philosophy on humanoid survival and its handling of the phage epidemic, both major factions are depicted as being heavily flawed and ill-equipped to handle the immense threat. The state of Earth outside of New Toronto’s protective dome and the historic mistakes made by the Science institute also serve as metaphorical examples of when technology and ambition is pushed too far if unhindered by checks and balances, at the cost of long-term societal stability; the Village enclave serving as an alternative and sanctuary to all the above ground influences. While slightly on the nose and a bit heavy-handed at times, cyborg Anne Oakfield’s entire arc and backstory represents how even good intentions can go unnoticeably awry with subtle pushes in certain directions.
While the overall plot and ideas incorporated are excellent and the setting creative, I noticed a few recurring trends that I found myself often nitpicking. While the world is well-thought out, I frequently found myself wishing for more visual details or descriptions of both the setting surrounding the characters as well as the various cyborgs, robots, and phage-infected beings. Certain descriptions are vague for narrative purposes such as elements involving Abaddon, but other such as Sam’s robot Talon, large derelict pieces of equipment, the look of Jason’s village are less visual than I would’ve liked. Some areas like the village are described in good detail when Jason and co. return to it midway through the book, but it would’ve been nice to have these images provided earlier. The plot, while complex, also sort of throws the reader right into the story without much context or history considering the expansive scale of the story. The reader is given tidbits of information in passing, often in the form of “hey remember this and this back from before the *redacted*?” which is fine in moderation, but it felt like the approach was used too often as a storytelling crutch. The conflict between the UFE and the Imperial Empire is decently documented over time, but the early chapters can be confusing if you’re not paying attention since not much backstory is given prior to the book abruptly shifting from Jason on Earth to commander Zeke in space. Other factions such as the Confederates, the Church and its persecution, and Anne's own story come in quite cold without much introduction, making early perspective shifts jarring and later plot twists involving them a bit less dramatic than likely intended. While I appreciate that the story doesn’t suffer from excessive stretches of info-dumping or a long and boring introduction, I think a bit more time spent familiarizing the reader at least with the different main parties involved could’ve helped the reading experience a lot.
Another area that I had minor qualms with is the characterizations and dialogue. I found Jason to be an appealing and likeable main character and his shared history with David, Sam and other characters interesting to read about. While the other characters are quite varied in nationality and looks, unfortunately I found many of them to be less distinctive. Searle does a great job portraying scrappy cheeky characters as well as conveying rag-tag group dynamics, but over time several characters and groups started to unfortunately feel too similar to each other. Though generally serviceable, the character dialogue also felt a bit plain and repetitive to me, particularly the discussions and arguments between Jason, David and Sam. While not necessarily a drawback per say, the dialogue tonally and narratively felt quite YA to me despite the more mature themes and social commentary reflected in the Call of Abaddon’s futuristic metaphors. While the story is fairly fast-paced, I often felt like the story started to drag in Jason’s dialogue-heavy chapters mainly due to the simplistic content and repetitive nature of their convos. This is less of an issue with older characters like Zeke and Anne, but is still a noticeable drawback compared to how well-crafted the plot is. That said, the straightforward characters do make the story very readable and highly accessible across many age demographics and even for readers outside of the sci-fi community.
Despite a few nitpicks, I found the Call of Abaddon to be a creatively ambitious sci-fi adventure that has great narrative ingredients utilized in its story. Once the different storylines and character perspectives start to intersect, the full picture Searle has envisioned is impressively well-developed. The action in the last third of the book plus the way the story concludes on a dramatic and reality-shifting “to be continued” note is an effective and strong hook for hopefully more compelling material soon to come! And while I do not adjust my reviews or scoring based on a book’s publication or release method, the Call of Abaddon is a very well edited and presented indie novel, in addition to having wonderful illustrations featuring Searle’s illustrating and visual design background. Fans of sci-fi epics with unknown foreign beings like Mass Effect, Hyperion, or even Metro 2033 will find a lot to like in the Call of Abaddon which covers similar territory while delivering a unique and memorable story all the same.
This review is based on a complimentary Advanced Reader Copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
*For more reviews, book lists and reading updates, check out my blog TheBookGrind!
One of the quintessential must-haves for a good sci-fi action-adventure romp is a solid premise paired with an exciting plot, and that is where the Call of Abaddon is strongest. The mysterious and powerful obelisk Abaddon is not only a unique twist on an extraterrestrial contact/technology, but is also a strong recurring visual perfectly featured in the book’s outstanding cover design illustrated by Searle himself. New Toronto’s futuristic cyberpunk aesthetic and technology alone is cool enough, but the addition of automatons, cyborgs, and psychic abilities provide a lot of great material to work with. In addition to New Toronto’s under the dome-style setup, the story also features underground enclaves that feel like a whole different world. The Call of Abaddon’s plot is also quite complex and is very much an ensemble cast story with a large number of characters and conflicting factions. Over the course of its run, the novel juggles several different storylines such as Jason’s psychic possessions by Abaddon, the Imperial Empire’s conquest against the United Federation of Earth, the spread of the infectious and cancerous phage, a dystopian society influenced by a corrupt clergy, and finally Jason, David and Sam’s shared history of escaping from the experimental Science Institute years ago. While there is a lot going on, by the end of the novel, each of the seemingly unrelated storylines are shown to be deeply connected to each other, all being traced back to Abaddon.
Besides the imaginative world and sci-fi aesthetics goodness, for me the Call of Abaddon is at its best during its high-energy thriller sections or when it focuses on fast-paced action. Mixing psychic powers with cybernetic weapons means that the fighting and action scenes never get old, with Seale making good use of the post-apocalyptic and underground landscapes within his written fight choreography. A notable highlight is Sam’s unique energy sword that is something like a cross between Indiana Jones’ bullwhip and lightsaber which is just plain cool. Jason and co.’s above ground excursions investigating Abaddon are also compelling while the alternating space opera battles and strategizing chapters nicely break up and support the slower underground ones.
While character motivations early-on appear to be quite straightforward, as the story progresses, the Call of Abaddon has far more substance and intent that it would initially appear. While not highlighted quite as often as other plot points, the clergy and above-ground dystopian system of New Toronto pose intriguing ideas in regard to religion and politics. Clearly intended to be a foil to the Imperial Empire’s stark and ruthless governing philosophy on humanoid survival and its handling of the phage epidemic, both major factions are depicted as being heavily flawed and ill-equipped to handle the immense threat. The state of Earth outside of New Toronto’s protective dome and the historic mistakes made by the Science institute also serve as metaphorical examples of when technology and ambition is pushed too far if unhindered by checks and balances, at the cost of long-term societal stability; the Village enclave serving as an alternative and sanctuary to all the above ground influences. While slightly on the nose and a bit heavy-handed at times, cyborg Anne Oakfield’s entire arc and backstory represents how even good intentions can go unnoticeably awry with subtle pushes in certain directions.
While the overall plot and ideas incorporated are excellent and the setting creative, I noticed a few recurring trends that I found myself often nitpicking. While the world is well-thought out, I frequently found myself wishing for more visual details or descriptions of both the setting surrounding the characters as well as the various cyborgs, robots, and phage-infected beings. Certain descriptions are vague for narrative purposes such as elements involving Abaddon, but other such as Sam’s robot Talon, large derelict pieces of equipment, the look of Jason’s village are less visual than I would’ve liked. Some areas like the village are described in good detail when Jason and co. return to it midway through the book, but it would’ve been nice to have these images provided earlier. The plot, while complex, also sort of throws the reader right into the story without much context or history considering the expansive scale of the story. The reader is given tidbits of information in passing, often in the form of “hey remember this and this back from before the *redacted*?” which is fine in moderation, but it felt like the approach was used too often as a storytelling crutch. The conflict between the UFE and the Imperial Empire is decently documented over time, but the early chapters can be confusing if you’re not paying attention since not much backstory is given prior to the book abruptly shifting from Jason on Earth to commander Zeke in space. Other factions such as the Confederates, the Church and its persecution, and Anne's own story come in quite cold without much introduction, making early perspective shifts jarring and later plot twists involving them a bit less dramatic than likely intended. While I appreciate that the story doesn’t suffer from excessive stretches of info-dumping or a long and boring introduction, I think a bit more time spent familiarizing the reader at least with the different main parties involved could’ve helped the reading experience a lot.
Another area that I had minor qualms with is the characterizations and dialogue. I found Jason to be an appealing and likeable main character and his shared history with David, Sam and other characters interesting to read about. While the other characters are quite varied in nationality and looks, unfortunately I found many of them to be less distinctive. Searle does a great job portraying scrappy cheeky characters as well as conveying rag-tag group dynamics, but over time several characters and groups started to unfortunately feel too similar to each other. Though generally serviceable, the character dialogue also felt a bit plain and repetitive to me, particularly the discussions and arguments between Jason, David and Sam. While not necessarily a drawback per say, the dialogue tonally and narratively felt quite YA to me despite the more mature themes and social commentary reflected in the Call of Abaddon’s futuristic metaphors. While the story is fairly fast-paced, I often felt like the story started to drag in Jason’s dialogue-heavy chapters mainly due to the simplistic content and repetitive nature of their convos. This is less of an issue with older characters like Zeke and Anne, but is still a noticeable drawback compared to how well-crafted the plot is. That said, the straightforward characters do make the story very readable and highly accessible across many age demographics and even for readers outside of the sci-fi community.
Despite a few nitpicks, I found the Call of Abaddon to be a creatively ambitious sci-fi adventure that has great narrative ingredients utilized in its story. Once the different storylines and character perspectives start to intersect, the full picture Searle has envisioned is impressively well-developed. The action in the last third of the book plus the way the story concludes on a dramatic and reality-shifting “to be continued” note is an effective and strong hook for hopefully more compelling material soon to come! And while I do not adjust my reviews or scoring based on a book’s publication or release method, the Call of Abaddon is a very well edited and presented indie novel, in addition to having wonderful illustrations featuring Searle’s illustrating and visual design background. Fans of sci-fi epics with unknown foreign beings like Mass Effect, Hyperion, or even Metro 2033 will find a lot to like in the Call of Abaddon which covers similar territory while delivering a unique and memorable story all the same.
This review is based on a complimentary Advanced Reader Copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
*For more reviews, book lists and reading updates, check out my blog TheBookGrind!
July 27, 2025
#ad much love for my advance copy
🆃🅷🅴 🅲🅰🅻🅻 🅾🅵 🅰🅱🅰🅳🅳🅾🅽
“𝔙𝔦𝔠𝔱𝔬𝔯𝔶 𝔴𝔞𝔰𝔫'𝔱 𝔴𝔬𝔯𝔱𝔥 𝔪𝔲𝔯𝔡𝔢𝔯𝔦𝔫𝔤 𝔰𝔬 𝔪𝔞𝔫𝔶, 𝔢𝔳𝔢𝔫 𝔦𝔣 𝔦𝔱 𝔴𝔬𝔲𝔩𝔡 𝔰𝔞𝔳𝔢 𝔟𝔦𝔩𝔩𝔦𝔬𝔫𝔰,” (p. 131).
Warning: test subjects have broken out of the lab! - Year 2255.
It’s been 8 years since Jason escaped the Science Institute. The year is now 2263 - where the story truly begins - but is the world any better?
Jason survives the ravaged world by salvaging whatever he can in the underground world. There’s Phage-infected people everywhere. An alien relic that slowly takes over. But human’s have proven to be the hardest to takeover.
Then there’s the voice of Abaddon pleading for them to find it. The only problem is they don’t know what Abaddon is, what it wants, or how to stop or help it. “𝖥𝗂𝗇𝖽 𝗎𝗌 - 𝗍𝗂𝗆𝖾 𝗂𝗌 𝗋𝗎𝗇𝗇𝗂𝗇𝗀 𝗈𝗎𝗍“ but Jason isn’t the only person who hears its call. It’ll be a race.
As you read this book a sense of anticipation and dread will follow you throughout. It’s just written so spectacularly that you become completely immersed in the story. Searle sure knows how to set a scene. Packed with nonstop action and a relentless pacing, you’ll barely have time to come up for air.
The Call of Abaddon is a post-apocalypse sci-fi that will keep you entertained from the first page to its last. The characters jump from the pages - this is a book you won’t forget. It’s a mind-blowing yet fascinating read. I especially loved the dialogue and banter.
This also plays out like a movie in your head as you read. I haven’t figured out why this happens with some books and not others, but whatever the reasons - this book has it!
You won’t be able to put it down.
𝕄𝕖𝕞𝕠𝕣𝕒𝕓𝕝𝕖:
Bolthead
Social deviant
The songs
Anne char
🎧: I also got a sneak peak at the audio and loved what I heard. Will def be buying the audio when it releases.
End of book one you say? I’ll be waiting for book 2 👀 Would make an excellent movie!
🆃🅷🅴 🅲🅰🅻🅻 🅾🅵 🅰🅱🅰🅳🅳🅾🅽
“𝔙𝔦𝔠𝔱𝔬𝔯𝔶 𝔴𝔞𝔰𝔫'𝔱 𝔴𝔬𝔯𝔱𝔥 𝔪𝔲𝔯𝔡𝔢𝔯𝔦𝔫𝔤 𝔰𝔬 𝔪𝔞𝔫𝔶, 𝔢𝔳𝔢𝔫 𝔦𝔣 𝔦𝔱 𝔴𝔬𝔲𝔩𝔡 𝔰𝔞𝔳𝔢 𝔟𝔦𝔩𝔩𝔦𝔬𝔫𝔰,” (p. 131).
Warning: test subjects have broken out of the lab! - Year 2255.
It’s been 8 years since Jason escaped the Science Institute. The year is now 2263 - where the story truly begins - but is the world any better?
Jason survives the ravaged world by salvaging whatever he can in the underground world. There’s Phage-infected people everywhere. An alien relic that slowly takes over. But human’s have proven to be the hardest to takeover.
Then there’s the voice of Abaddon pleading for them to find it. The only problem is they don’t know what Abaddon is, what it wants, or how to stop or help it. “𝖥𝗂𝗇𝖽 𝗎𝗌 - 𝗍𝗂𝗆𝖾 𝗂𝗌 𝗋𝗎𝗇𝗇𝗂𝗇𝗀 𝗈𝗎𝗍“ but Jason isn’t the only person who hears its call. It’ll be a race.
As you read this book a sense of anticipation and dread will follow you throughout. It’s just written so spectacularly that you become completely immersed in the story. Searle sure knows how to set a scene. Packed with nonstop action and a relentless pacing, you’ll barely have time to come up for air.
The Call of Abaddon is a post-apocalypse sci-fi that will keep you entertained from the first page to its last. The characters jump from the pages - this is a book you won’t forget. It’s a mind-blowing yet fascinating read. I especially loved the dialogue and banter.
This also plays out like a movie in your head as you read. I haven’t figured out why this happens with some books and not others, but whatever the reasons - this book has it!
You won’t be able to put it down.
𝕄𝕖𝕞𝕠𝕣𝕒𝕓𝕝𝕖:
Bolthead
Social deviant
The songs
Anne char
🎧: I also got a sneak peak at the audio and loved what I heard. Will def be buying the audio when it releases.
End of book one you say? I’ll be waiting for book 2 👀 Would make an excellent movie!
July 7, 2025
The Call of Abaddon by Colin Searle is a fast-paced, science fiction novel about Jason, a young man with powerful psychic abilities, who is haunted by voices that won't let go—voices tied to an ancient and immensely powerful alien structure called the Abaddon Beacon. He has been hearing these voices for years in his dreams but now he hears them when he is awake. He is shown to have been using Osmium, a psychoactive, addictive drug that helps him sleep and escape the torment of his fitful dreams and memories of the obelisk he once encountered in a research lab which he escaped from some time back. There, he, his friend Sam and his brother David were used as subjects in Dr. Avery Oakfield's experiments, specifically the Abhamancer Program which ended up giving them psionic powers.
The beacon is self-aware, was created by makers who once broke the laws of reality nearly destroying space and time. To stop others from repeating the same mistake, it was aimed at manipulating and destroying civilizations and reproducing by triggering mass extinction and catastrophic events called Phages, that would melt down entire populations into raw material used to create more beacons. It speaks through whispers, visions and psychic pulses, trying to dominate the minds of vulnerable individuals like Jason. It sees people as tools or obstacles and when it realizes that Jason is fighting it, it responds with overwhelming intensity, pressing harder to break his will. But instead of surrendering, Jason decides to channel his inner strength using his pain and clarity to push through the mental chaos. As their conflict builds to a final clash of wills, the question becomes: can one human being truly defy an ancient cosmic?
Jason isn't, however, alone in the fight. He is joined by his older brother David, who is a grounded, loyal and pragmatic protector to his brother. There is also Sam, a fellow survivor of the Abhamancer Program, who comes out as the team's emotional and tactical anchor despite the trauma of her own past. Together, they face fearful moments that push them to their limits, often clashing over whether to stay safe or take bold risks. As Jason's condition worsens as the Beacon's influence grows stronger, they must face impossible choices—choices that lead them deeper into danger, toward an enemy they can't see, a truth they are not ready for and a future none of them may survive.
This novel’s writing style is fast, focused and deeply thoughtful. The author uses just the right amount of detail and when he describes a place like a ruined city or an alien lab, you can picture it clearly in your mind, as if you are watching a movie. His descriptions are very vivid—you always know where you are and what is happening. The story is easy to follow and doesn't confuse the reader, even when things get strange or intense, like when the Beacon's influence explodes inside the protagonist. The characters grow in meaningful ways as the story unfolds and their growth feels natural and earned. The story beautifully shows that true strength isn't just about power, but about trust, love and the courage to keep going. The secondary characters like Anne, Talos and Budgie add depth, tension and unexpected warmth, each playing a key role in shaping the story’s emotional stakes and helping drive the plot forward.
Quill says: The Call of Abaddon by Colin Searle is one of the most gripping and emotionally rich sci-fi stories out there, with a unique blend of action, mystery and emotion with powerful and unforgettable characters and vivid world-building that keeps the reader turning the pages. It delivers more than it promises, offering real emotional stakes that resonate deeply with the readers. With themes of survival, identity and the struggle for control, it asks what it truly means to fight for your future when everything, including your sanity, is at risk. This story is highly recommended for fans of character-driven sci-fi, psychological thrillers, and stories that balance emotional depth with high-stakes action, as well as those who enjoy books that capture the cost of survival.
The beacon is self-aware, was created by makers who once broke the laws of reality nearly destroying space and time. To stop others from repeating the same mistake, it was aimed at manipulating and destroying civilizations and reproducing by triggering mass extinction and catastrophic events called Phages, that would melt down entire populations into raw material used to create more beacons. It speaks through whispers, visions and psychic pulses, trying to dominate the minds of vulnerable individuals like Jason. It sees people as tools or obstacles and when it realizes that Jason is fighting it, it responds with overwhelming intensity, pressing harder to break his will. But instead of surrendering, Jason decides to channel his inner strength using his pain and clarity to push through the mental chaos. As their conflict builds to a final clash of wills, the question becomes: can one human being truly defy an ancient cosmic?
Jason isn't, however, alone in the fight. He is joined by his older brother David, who is a grounded, loyal and pragmatic protector to his brother. There is also Sam, a fellow survivor of the Abhamancer Program, who comes out as the team's emotional and tactical anchor despite the trauma of her own past. Together, they face fearful moments that push them to their limits, often clashing over whether to stay safe or take bold risks. As Jason's condition worsens as the Beacon's influence grows stronger, they must face impossible choices—choices that lead them deeper into danger, toward an enemy they can't see, a truth they are not ready for and a future none of them may survive.
This novel’s writing style is fast, focused and deeply thoughtful. The author uses just the right amount of detail and when he describes a place like a ruined city or an alien lab, you can picture it clearly in your mind, as if you are watching a movie. His descriptions are very vivid—you always know where you are and what is happening. The story is easy to follow and doesn't confuse the reader, even when things get strange or intense, like when the Beacon's influence explodes inside the protagonist. The characters grow in meaningful ways as the story unfolds and their growth feels natural and earned. The story beautifully shows that true strength isn't just about power, but about trust, love and the courage to keep going. The secondary characters like Anne, Talos and Budgie add depth, tension and unexpected warmth, each playing a key role in shaping the story’s emotional stakes and helping drive the plot forward.
Quill says: The Call of Abaddon by Colin Searle is one of the most gripping and emotionally rich sci-fi stories out there, with a unique blend of action, mystery and emotion with powerful and unforgettable characters and vivid world-building that keeps the reader turning the pages. It delivers more than it promises, offering real emotional stakes that resonate deeply with the readers. With themes of survival, identity and the struggle for control, it asks what it truly means to fight for your future when everything, including your sanity, is at risk. This story is highly recommended for fans of character-driven sci-fi, psychological thrillers, and stories that balance emotional depth with high-stakes action, as well as those who enjoy books that capture the cost of survival.
July 24, 2025
What “The Call of Abaddon” does exceptionally well is build a futuristic world that feels tangible. It’s all described in a way that doesn’t just tell you what’s there. It makes you feel like you’re walking alongside the characters. The author’s imagery is sharp, not overwhelming in the least, and that balance makes the setting stand out. This is what makes it stand out from the other books in the same genre.
I struggled to understand the world-building at first, but once I got it, everything fell into place. It made the plot more enjoyable and engaging.
The characters, though, are what really carry this story. Jason’s flaws are front and center; he messes up, he reacts before he thinks, and he doesn’t always listen. David, who constantly questions reality, and Sam, a fighter and strategist, each bear their own scars.
There’s a raw honesty in how their relationships are written. They don’t always get along. They argue, pull away, and come back together. It doesn’t feel forced. The relationships in this book are layered. There’s tension and mistrust. The little ways they surprised you were something I genuinely appreciated.
Overall, “The Call of Abaddon”, the first installment, was a fantastic read.
Reviewed By Wajeeha
June 24, 2025
The Call of Abaddon is a fresh, gripping adventure from start to finish with one central mystery: what exactly is Abaddon and what does it want with Jason?
The suspense and world building in the first half of the novel is immersive and enthralling, introducing the reader to a dystopian future where everything (and everyone) seems to be at a tipping point.
When the paths of the compelling and loveable crew of characters--who all initially seem to have their own agendas--converge, there's an aha! moment that brings immense satisfaction as a reader. But as one conflict is resolved, another one arises, then another... and another... leaving you as the reader glued to the novel, desperate to find out what happens and if there's resolution.
In the second half of the novel, the story is pushed into overdrive, with the action, plot, pacing, and overall character development reaching all-new highs when you realize just exactly what's at stake and what dark mission Abaddon is plotting and the sheer scale of its might and what humankind is up against.
The Call of Abaddon is a riveting and powerful debut in the Abaddon Cycle series... can't wait to read the next one!!
The suspense and world building in the first half of the novel is immersive and enthralling, introducing the reader to a dystopian future where everything (and everyone) seems to be at a tipping point.
When the paths of the compelling and loveable crew of characters--who all initially seem to have their own agendas--converge, there's an aha! moment that brings immense satisfaction as a reader. But as one conflict is resolved, another one arises, then another... and another... leaving you as the reader glued to the novel, desperate to find out what happens and if there's resolution.
In the second half of the novel, the story is pushed into overdrive, with the action, plot, pacing, and overall character development reaching all-new highs when you realize just exactly what's at stake and what dark mission Abaddon is plotting and the sheer scale of its might and what humankind is up against.
The Call of Abaddon is a riveting and powerful debut in the Abaddon Cycle series... can't wait to read the next one!!
July 28, 2025
This is epic Action/Adventure Sci-Fi with an emphasis on action and military technology. It aspires greatly and mostly delivers. The multi-level plotline involves several groups of people at varied levels of the society, with a different point-of-view character in each. This, plus the wide scope of the action, makes it a bit difficult to follow at first. However, the strength and sympathetic nature of the major characters soon draw us in, and we develop strong emotional bonds with them.
The story starts with a super action scene, intertwined with too much tech too soon. The greatest power in an action scene is the reader’s ability to guess what will happen next, producing suspense. In this scene, we can’t predict much, because each new threat brings up a new type of technological weapon that we have to add to the mix. So, readers are relegated to the position of audience, and this prevents deeper connection with the book in the early stages. Having said that, I must note that the action sequences are exceptionally well described and creative.
Once we get further into the story and have time to get acquainted with the main characters, their problems and their personalities, we become involved.
Unfortunately, the writing is peppered with poor sentence structure, which I hope will be straightened out in the final publication. For example:
“That’s crazy,” said Santiago, looking to Jason for confirmation, who shrugged.
This should be, “That’s crazy,” said Santiago, looking for confirmation to Jason, who shrugged.
“He blinked his thoughts away, and Jason shook his head.” This would be better as,
“Jason blinked his thoughts away and shook his head.”
By the time we reach the final battle, we are tuned in to the tech, and the action reaches a gut-wrenching climax.
Unfortunately, then a deus ex machina time traveler suddenly shows up and, with a rather long-winded explanation, tosses us back into the spectator role. Then he disappears, and the conflict continues, the tension increases, and all comes to an explosive end.
…Almost. Of course, there will be a Book 2.
This novel would be a good candidate for a Superhero Action film. If you like that genre, go for it.
The story starts with a super action scene, intertwined with too much tech too soon. The greatest power in an action scene is the reader’s ability to guess what will happen next, producing suspense. In this scene, we can’t predict much, because each new threat brings up a new type of technological weapon that we have to add to the mix. So, readers are relegated to the position of audience, and this prevents deeper connection with the book in the early stages. Having said that, I must note that the action sequences are exceptionally well described and creative.
Once we get further into the story and have time to get acquainted with the main characters, their problems and their personalities, we become involved.
Unfortunately, the writing is peppered with poor sentence structure, which I hope will be straightened out in the final publication. For example:
“That’s crazy,” said Santiago, looking to Jason for confirmation, who shrugged.
This should be, “That’s crazy,” said Santiago, looking for confirmation to Jason, who shrugged.
“He blinked his thoughts away, and Jason shook his head.” This would be better as,
“Jason blinked his thoughts away and shook his head.”
By the time we reach the final battle, we are tuned in to the tech, and the action reaches a gut-wrenching climax.
Unfortunately, then a deus ex machina time traveler suddenly shows up and, with a rather long-winded explanation, tosses us back into the spectator role. Then he disappears, and the conflict continues, the tension increases, and all comes to an explosive end.
…Almost. Of course, there will be a Book 2.
This novel would be a good candidate for a Superhero Action film. If you like that genre, go for it.
August 2, 2025
Wow. Just….Wow!
Bravo!
“Come on in here boy, have a cigar, you’re gonna go far…”
Truly. For a debut novel Colin Searle nails it!
This story? A combination of The Matrix meets V for Vendetta meets.. dunno, something GREAT!
There’s a lot of depth to this story. It’s layered with details that are laced throughout giving you enough to keep in the flow without bogging it down.
The character development is outstanding. The characters pop off the page and feel fully realized.
The story never drags and you’re carried along on the journey featuring two threads that eventually come together with a bang, literally! Searle also pulls a few plot twists you won’t see coming…they’re that well placed!
To repeat: for a debut novel, Colin Searle nails it!
Bravo!
“Come on in here boy, have a cigar, you’re gonna go far…”
Truly. For a debut novel Colin Searle nails it!
This story? A combination of The Matrix meets V for Vendetta meets.. dunno, something GREAT!
There’s a lot of depth to this story. It’s layered with details that are laced throughout giving you enough to keep in the flow without bogging it down.
The character development is outstanding. The characters pop off the page and feel fully realized.
The story never drags and you’re carried along on the journey featuring two threads that eventually come together with a bang, literally! Searle also pulls a few plot twists you won’t see coming…they’re that well placed!
To repeat: for a debut novel, Colin Searle nails it!
July 28, 2025
Call of Abaddon is a sci-fi story brimming with fast-paced action and intriguing mysteries that will keep you eagerly turning pages to uncover every answer.
I absolutely loved the author's writing style and his vivid descriptions of scenes and surroundings. You can effortlessly picture everything in your head, just like watching a movie. The characters are also incredibly well-developed, as is the immersive world-building.
This book is truly an enjoyable and captivating read!
I absolutely loved the author's writing style and his vivid descriptions of scenes and surroundings. You can effortlessly picture everything in your head, just like watching a movie. The characters are also incredibly well-developed, as is the immersive world-building.
This book is truly an enjoyable and captivating read!
July 22, 2025
I enjoyed how the author introduced us to a world where technology existed but over time would become infected and have to be destroyed. It follows a group of people who are living separately and secretly from the city dwellers. They have to rely on scavenging resources to survive and repel attacks from the technology that has become infected and almost zombie like in its actions.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 1, 2025
Dr. Avery Oakfield, United Earth Federation Science Minister, has written in his personal journal that multiple test subjects have escaped the labs. Abhamancer Program test subjects 107 and 108, and Successor Program Subject 001, started a chemical fire as a distraction to mask their escape. This is a big loss to the research program because Subject 107 is linked to the Abaddon obelisk, and he is concerned about his training for his psychic abilities. He silently sends out a wish for Subject 107, whom he calls Jason, to return.
Eight years later, Jason has been plagued by dreams where voices call to him, urging him to find them before it’s too late. Now those voices have crossed over to the real world. He uses a neural inhibitor implanted on the back of his head to dispense an addictive psychoactive drug (Osmium) that calms him down and blocks the voices. He lives with his brother David and their friend Sam in New Toronto’s underground village where they make a living as salvagers.
When the Abaddon increases its efforts to reach him, Jason’s psychic abilities increase. After a failed but traumatic psionic possession attempt, Jason is adamant that he must go looking for it and the three of them make plans to break back into the United Earth Federation research lab.
The Abaddon is a powerful ancient alien obelisk that has given humanity advanced technologies, but its energy affects some people. One of those is Emperor Hadrian Mariko, who is on a power trip and vows to use it to take over the world and destroy anyone who opposes him. Jason is up against a powerful god-like force that will make or break humanity’s future and his own destiny.
Futuristic dystopian novels are set in desolate settings, and people often fight to survive harsh environments. In The Call of Abaddon, Colin Searle gives readers an Earth that’s a shell of its former self, set in the year 2263. The city wall’s holo-generators display a pile of collapsed rubble that hides it from outsiders, including the government. Robotic drones are as common as cyborgs, spaceships, and orbital stations. Outer space travel has made conflicts on other planets, such as Mars, possible amid constant struggles for power across the solar system.
As a fan of science fiction, I was drawn to this novel because of its futuristic setting and an alien artifact that is capable of psychic connections with humans. Scientists found it over 100 years ago, and its nanotechnology accelerated the war between the United Earth Federation and the Confederacy and almost destroyed the Earth. Despite that, governments still fight for control of it. I was hooked by the second chapter when Jason’s neural inhibitor breaks, leaving his mind unprotected, and he starts hearing voices and seeing disturbing visions while shadows try to climb up his body as he’s trying to brush them off and panicking.
The boiling, pulsating shadow was alive with Abaddon’s malefic laughter and strange rhythmic chanting, like a cathedral housing a billion corrupted souls.
This exciting science fiction adventure contains intense battle scenes, cosmic mythology, and an ancient myth involving an alien artifact. Jason is an ordinary young man forced to deal with extraordinary circumstances as the survival of the human race hangs in the balance. He has the support of his friends and family, but ultimately, he must face the Abaddon on his own. It’s a big universe, but the wide variety of characters makes it feel more connected than ever. The pacing is steady, with the action balanced by moments of camaraderie between humans and robots and philosophical depth.
Overall, Colin Searle’s The Call of Abaddon, book 1 of The Abaddon Cycle, is a suspenseful story of humanity’s struggle to overcome an unimaginable darkness. It explores the themes of power, good vs evil, identity, friendship, and corruption, and features the political intrigue of Dune, the cosmic horror of Lovecraft, and the explosive world-building of The Expanse. It’s recommended for fans of dark science fiction, outer space adventures, and cosmic myth.
The creatures from the lab, failed test subject or not, were a new breed of infected, an elevated form of the Phage. Sam had a sick feeling that she was witnessing the beginning of something truly terrifying, a new form of outbreak magnitudes more difficult to contain.
Eight years later, Jason has been plagued by dreams where voices call to him, urging him to find them before it’s too late. Now those voices have crossed over to the real world. He uses a neural inhibitor implanted on the back of his head to dispense an addictive psychoactive drug (Osmium) that calms him down and blocks the voices. He lives with his brother David and their friend Sam in New Toronto’s underground village where they make a living as salvagers.
When the Abaddon increases its efforts to reach him, Jason’s psychic abilities increase. After a failed but traumatic psionic possession attempt, Jason is adamant that he must go looking for it and the three of them make plans to break back into the United Earth Federation research lab.
The Abaddon is a powerful ancient alien obelisk that has given humanity advanced technologies, but its energy affects some people. One of those is Emperor Hadrian Mariko, who is on a power trip and vows to use it to take over the world and destroy anyone who opposes him. Jason is up against a powerful god-like force that will make or break humanity’s future and his own destiny.
Futuristic dystopian novels are set in desolate settings, and people often fight to survive harsh environments. In The Call of Abaddon, Colin Searle gives readers an Earth that’s a shell of its former self, set in the year 2263. The city wall’s holo-generators display a pile of collapsed rubble that hides it from outsiders, including the government. Robotic drones are as common as cyborgs, spaceships, and orbital stations. Outer space travel has made conflicts on other planets, such as Mars, possible amid constant struggles for power across the solar system.
As a fan of science fiction, I was drawn to this novel because of its futuristic setting and an alien artifact that is capable of psychic connections with humans. Scientists found it over 100 years ago, and its nanotechnology accelerated the war between the United Earth Federation and the Confederacy and almost destroyed the Earth. Despite that, governments still fight for control of it. I was hooked by the second chapter when Jason’s neural inhibitor breaks, leaving his mind unprotected, and he starts hearing voices and seeing disturbing visions while shadows try to climb up his body as he’s trying to brush them off and panicking.
The boiling, pulsating shadow was alive with Abaddon’s malefic laughter and strange rhythmic chanting, like a cathedral housing a billion corrupted souls.
This exciting science fiction adventure contains intense battle scenes, cosmic mythology, and an ancient myth involving an alien artifact. Jason is an ordinary young man forced to deal with extraordinary circumstances as the survival of the human race hangs in the balance. He has the support of his friends and family, but ultimately, he must face the Abaddon on his own. It’s a big universe, but the wide variety of characters makes it feel more connected than ever. The pacing is steady, with the action balanced by moments of camaraderie between humans and robots and philosophical depth.
Overall, Colin Searle’s The Call of Abaddon, book 1 of The Abaddon Cycle, is a suspenseful story of humanity’s struggle to overcome an unimaginable darkness. It explores the themes of power, good vs evil, identity, friendship, and corruption, and features the political intrigue of Dune, the cosmic horror of Lovecraft, and the explosive world-building of The Expanse. It’s recommended for fans of dark science fiction, outer space adventures, and cosmic myth.
The creatures from the lab, failed test subject or not, were a new breed of infected, an elevated form of the Phage. Sam had a sick feeling that she was witnessing the beginning of something truly terrifying, a new form of outbreak magnitudes more difficult to contain.
October 27, 2025
This is a multifaceted post-apocalyptic tale revolving around the principal characters, while at the same time, it brings in multiple story threads that all come together to complete this part of the story. One might think this makes it a complicated story, but in the case of The Call of Abaddon, it is so well written that it is an excellent, cohesive story I found to be entertaining. It has several characters for a reader to care about, and some that are terrifying.
One of the best parts of this story is world-building! A reader will be given a tour of a ruined Earth following a war that has made the planet's surface uninhabitable. People are forced to live in sealed cities. Call of Abaddon focuses on New Toronto, a self-sufficient and often dangerous place that serves as the capital of the United Earth Federation. Life isn't easy, but it is livable if one is willing to work and play their part.
The principal characters include three young adults who face challenges in reaching a goal. But this is not a young-adult story. There are several elements that might make sensitive readers uncomfortable.
Here is the book's description from the cover to avoid spoilers...
To save the human race from the ultimate cosmic threat, Jason will have to become something far beyond human.
New Toronto is a fractured city-arcology on a dying Earth, where hope is as scarce as clean air. For Jason, survival means scavenging the ruins beneath the city — where any day could be his last.
But everything changes when an ancient alien obelisk — the ABADDON BEACON — attacks Jason’s mind from afar, making his dormant psychic abilities spiral out of control. After barely surviving Abaddon’s psionic possession attempt, Jason and his companions are left with no choice but to find the obelisk before it consumes him.
Problem is, Abaddon has been sealed within a top-secret United Earth Federation research lab for over a century, silently worming its alien technologies into human society, presented as gifts with a far darker purpose. The Beacon doesn’t just speak; it infects, projecting its viral energies far beyond the walls of the lab.
And Jason isn’t the only one hearing Abaddon’s call. Across the Solar System, a ruthless Emperor will stop at nothing to seize the Beacon’s power for himself.
As the Imperial invasion of Earth looms, Jason’s quest to confront Abaddon will force him into a critical choice: master the strange power growing inside him ... or succumb to the Beacon's godlike influence, ushering in mankind's doom.
The Call of Abaddon is a gripping mythological tale of humanity's struggle to overcome an unimaginable darkness, blending the political intrigue of Dune with the eldritch terror of Lovecraft, and the explosive world-building of The Expanse.
There are several characters to follow in Call of Abaddon. Among my favorites are Jason, David, and Sam. These three are a team that works well together. Jason is smart, but troubled. He is plagued by voices transmitted to him from an alien device. He is in constant danger of losing himself to the Abaddon Beacon. It is an alien device that works to bring those with psionic powers under its control. Jason is forced to rely on a drug to keep himself under control.
Jason's brother, David, is the pragmatic one of the trio. He sees the practical side of things and works to keep himself, his brother, and Sam grounded. He often points out the folly of his friends decisions and finds solutions to problems that work.
Sam is the technical wizard and warrior of the group. She has abilities beyond many others and saves the day quite often. Sam is also susceptible to psionic episodes, although she seems to be able to control them better than Jason.
Talos is a combat robot Sam has reprogrammed to help the trio. But there is one aspect Talos adds; he has a great ability to point out absurdities as the team works to perform their tasks. Talos' deadpan delivery adds a lot of comic relief to lighten the otherwise grim realities of the story. Talos often made me think of Marvin the Paranoid Android from The Hitchhiker's Guide. I often found myself laughing while reading his lines and wanted more!
Anne and Zeke Oakfield are two heroic characters. They have made it their mission to bring down Mariko, the despotic, megalomaniacal, self-appointed Emperor, who intends to bring Earth under his heel and take control of the Abaddon Beacon.
My favorite plot points, along with Talos' dry wit, are the relationships and conversations between the principal characters. Jason, David, and Sam care deeply for one another and would easily sacrifice themselves for the other two. They work well together and are more like family, depending on each other for nearly everything, but especially emotional support. They have a tendency to pick at each other, but they all understand it is just talk to break the tension. Their dialog was a high point of the story for me.
Another favorite part was when Zeke Oakfield leads a large group of people in a rallying song. The tune is based on a familiar old American song, but the author's lyrics are incredible! If one reads this story, when one gets to this part of the book, and you can figure out the tune, I dare you not to sing along.
The theme that stood out the most to me was Jason's battle to keep his identity. While he has a strong personality, the Abaddon Beacon is a powerful alien device urging Jason on to do its bidding. The only way Jason can resist completely losing himself is to take a drug to silence the voices he hears.
Another prominent theme involves the megalomaniac, Emperor Maiko. He is obsessed with thinking he can control the Abaddon Beacon and the people of Earth with ruthless tyranny.
The Call of Abaddon is a story with many various threads that weave into a complete tapestry. While there are numerous characters to keep track of, and a lot of detail, the story is so well written, the story never eludes the reader. The characters are memorable, and they are involved in plenty of action that helps this story move at a great pace. Descriptions of the action and backdrops are detailed and colorful, and the themes are well explored. One will experience a good spectrum of emotions from laughter to tears, and there are plenty of thrills, twists, and turns to keep one reading to the end.
One of the best parts of this story is world-building! A reader will be given a tour of a ruined Earth following a war that has made the planet's surface uninhabitable. People are forced to live in sealed cities. Call of Abaddon focuses on New Toronto, a self-sufficient and often dangerous place that serves as the capital of the United Earth Federation. Life isn't easy, but it is livable if one is willing to work and play their part.
The principal characters include three young adults who face challenges in reaching a goal. But this is not a young-adult story. There are several elements that might make sensitive readers uncomfortable.
Here is the book's description from the cover to avoid spoilers...
To save the human race from the ultimate cosmic threat, Jason will have to become something far beyond human.
New Toronto is a fractured city-arcology on a dying Earth, where hope is as scarce as clean air. For Jason, survival means scavenging the ruins beneath the city — where any day could be his last.
But everything changes when an ancient alien obelisk — the ABADDON BEACON — attacks Jason’s mind from afar, making his dormant psychic abilities spiral out of control. After barely surviving Abaddon’s psionic possession attempt, Jason and his companions are left with no choice but to find the obelisk before it consumes him.
Problem is, Abaddon has been sealed within a top-secret United Earth Federation research lab for over a century, silently worming its alien technologies into human society, presented as gifts with a far darker purpose. The Beacon doesn’t just speak; it infects, projecting its viral energies far beyond the walls of the lab.
And Jason isn’t the only one hearing Abaddon’s call. Across the Solar System, a ruthless Emperor will stop at nothing to seize the Beacon’s power for himself.
As the Imperial invasion of Earth looms, Jason’s quest to confront Abaddon will force him into a critical choice: master the strange power growing inside him ... or succumb to the Beacon's godlike influence, ushering in mankind's doom.
The Call of Abaddon is a gripping mythological tale of humanity's struggle to overcome an unimaginable darkness, blending the political intrigue of Dune with the eldritch terror of Lovecraft, and the explosive world-building of The Expanse.
There are several characters to follow in Call of Abaddon. Among my favorites are Jason, David, and Sam. These three are a team that works well together. Jason is smart, but troubled. He is plagued by voices transmitted to him from an alien device. He is in constant danger of losing himself to the Abaddon Beacon. It is an alien device that works to bring those with psionic powers under its control. Jason is forced to rely on a drug to keep himself under control.
Jason's brother, David, is the pragmatic one of the trio. He sees the practical side of things and works to keep himself, his brother, and Sam grounded. He often points out the folly of his friends decisions and finds solutions to problems that work.
Sam is the technical wizard and warrior of the group. She has abilities beyond many others and saves the day quite often. Sam is also susceptible to psionic episodes, although she seems to be able to control them better than Jason.
Talos is a combat robot Sam has reprogrammed to help the trio. But there is one aspect Talos adds; he has a great ability to point out absurdities as the team works to perform their tasks. Talos' deadpan delivery adds a lot of comic relief to lighten the otherwise grim realities of the story. Talos often made me think of Marvin the Paranoid Android from The Hitchhiker's Guide. I often found myself laughing while reading his lines and wanted more!
Anne and Zeke Oakfield are two heroic characters. They have made it their mission to bring down Mariko, the despotic, megalomaniacal, self-appointed Emperor, who intends to bring Earth under his heel and take control of the Abaddon Beacon.
My favorite plot points, along with Talos' dry wit, are the relationships and conversations between the principal characters. Jason, David, and Sam care deeply for one another and would easily sacrifice themselves for the other two. They work well together and are more like family, depending on each other for nearly everything, but especially emotional support. They have a tendency to pick at each other, but they all understand it is just talk to break the tension. Their dialog was a high point of the story for me.
Another favorite part was when Zeke Oakfield leads a large group of people in a rallying song. The tune is based on a familiar old American song, but the author's lyrics are incredible! If one reads this story, when one gets to this part of the book, and you can figure out the tune, I dare you not to sing along.
The theme that stood out the most to me was Jason's battle to keep his identity. While he has a strong personality, the Abaddon Beacon is a powerful alien device urging Jason on to do its bidding. The only way Jason can resist completely losing himself is to take a drug to silence the voices he hears.
Another prominent theme involves the megalomaniac, Emperor Maiko. He is obsessed with thinking he can control the Abaddon Beacon and the people of Earth with ruthless tyranny.
The Call of Abaddon is a story with many various threads that weave into a complete tapestry. While there are numerous characters to keep track of, and a lot of detail, the story is so well written, the story never eludes the reader. The characters are memorable, and they are involved in plenty of action that helps this story move at a great pace. Descriptions of the action and backdrops are detailed and colorful, and the themes are well explored. One will experience a good spectrum of emotions from laughter to tears, and there are plenty of thrills, twists, and turns to keep one reading to the end.
July 7, 2025
QUICK STATS
𝑅𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑛𝑔: ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
𝒮𝓅𝒾𝒸ℯ ℒℯ𝓋ℯ𝓁: N/A
𝓣𝓻𝓲𝓰𝓰𝓮𝓻 𝓦𝓪𝓻𝓷𝓲𝓷𝓰𝓼: Scenes of violence and intense psychological infiltration
╚══ஓ๑♡๑ஓ══╝
OVERVIEW
The Call of Abaddon is a gripping introduction to Searle's Sci-Fi universe where the future is dominated by technology and the vast universe is being explored to its massive potential. The reader follows Jason, a trainee for the United Federation of Earth, who hears voices calling him toward the mysterious Abaddon, which will grant him the answers to his mysterious powers. His life in New Toronto, a dome-protected city, consists of cyborgs and robots and other people - such as his crush Sam's psychic manipulation - who have mysterious internal powers
𝐖𝐇𝐀𝐓 𝐈 𝐋𝐎𝐕𝐄𝐃
🤖SAM! Sam all the way! She was a fleshed out character with depth and journey, but at the same time, she was normal. Plain and simple. Apart from her psychic powers, she wasn't overwhelmingly different, like what's commonly seen in sci-fi/fantasy novels. She knew her work and while she was intelligent, she didn't stop others from trying to do a task she could easily do by herself.
🤖Jason was an incredible protagonist! Like Sam (and like many of the characters), he has goals and a strong development ARC. His constant nightmares and the calls that he gets for Abaddon are intriguing because Searle gives us just enough to understand while also keeping us on the edge with the slightest vague ending.
🤖The world was incredible! Searle did an amazing job of not info-dumping while also introducing us to the futuristic New Toronto. He weaves the setting into the story, only giving the reader information that they need to know while simultaneously feeding them more description and understanding about the world.
🤖The relationships! Searle knew how to facilitate relationships within this complex plot. Jason's friends and loved ones all have a different kind of relationship with him, from his banter with David, his older brother, to his interactions with Sam and Soo-hyn, two girls that he has feelings for. What's particularly noticeable about this is that Searle - similarly with the setting - doesn't overwhelm the reader with long internal thoughts about Jason's feelings for each character. Instead, he tactfully shows them, through brief points of conversation, poignant paragraphs, or Jason's consice internal monologues.
🤖Anne! This is another character I loved. She's a cyborg who has a compelling backstory that's Searle's way of juxta-positioning good intentions with bad execution (the execution being how Anne's character reacts to the changes). I can't give too much away because of spoilers, but let's just say that after Sam, Anne is my favorite! She has the spunk, the fight, and the bravery to face her trials head-on
𝐖𝐇𝐀𝐓 𝐍𝐄𝐄𝐃𝐒 𝐌𝐎𝐑𝐄 𝐖𝐎𝐑𝐊
(🇮🇳 🇲🇾 🇴🇵🇮🇳🇮🇴🇳)
❤️The Pacing: Searle is an ingenious craftsman of the world of New Toronto, but at times, the pacing felt too slow to develop Jason's ARC. While everyone else was moving forward, I felt like Jason's ARC was being pulled back for the sake of developing the world and the plot.
❤️The Fight Scenes: I'll admit, the fight scenes were incredible! Seeing everyone in action, their movements fluid yet holding something unique to their fighting style and character was investing to read! However, at times, it felt too long. The action was dragged for the sake of Jason's internal monologue or the frequent calls he gets for Abaddon.
❤️The World: New Toronto is a place I want to live in 😂I admire how Searle describes the setting, as mentioned before, and how it's so immersive, but as other reviewers have mentioned (and I've noticed this myself), it feels like we're just thrust into the world. While I love that Searle doesn't info dump, I think we're started with too little information to grasp the face pace of the beginning of the novel.
MY FINAL THOUGHTS
This was my second time reading sci-fi. The first was when I read THE MARTIAN by Andy Weir, and to be honest, I didn't really enjoy it 😅I felt like the prose was too complicated for me to understand the main plot of the story, so I loved that Searle's book was just right for beginners of sci-fi and people already accustomed to the genre. The characters were detailed, the world was complex without being overwhelming, and overall, this is a must read for those of you looking to get into sci-fi or searching for a new book within the genre!
Looking for more of my reviews? Want to contact me? Check out my blog! Shreya Reads, Reviews, and Writes/a>
𝑅𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑛𝑔: ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
𝒮𝓅𝒾𝒸ℯ ℒℯ𝓋ℯ𝓁: N/A
𝓣𝓻𝓲𝓰𝓰𝓮𝓻 𝓦𝓪𝓻𝓷𝓲𝓷𝓰𝓼: Scenes of violence and intense psychological infiltration
╚══ஓ๑♡๑ஓ══╝
OVERVIEW
The Call of Abaddon is a gripping introduction to Searle's Sci-Fi universe where the future is dominated by technology and the vast universe is being explored to its massive potential. The reader follows Jason, a trainee for the United Federation of Earth, who hears voices calling him toward the mysterious Abaddon, which will grant him the answers to his mysterious powers. His life in New Toronto, a dome-protected city, consists of cyborgs and robots and other people - such as his crush Sam's psychic manipulation - who have mysterious internal powers
𝐖𝐇𝐀𝐓 𝐈 𝐋𝐎𝐕𝐄𝐃
🤖SAM! Sam all the way! She was a fleshed out character with depth and journey, but at the same time, she was normal. Plain and simple. Apart from her psychic powers, she wasn't overwhelmingly different, like what's commonly seen in sci-fi/fantasy novels. She knew her work and while she was intelligent, she didn't stop others from trying to do a task she could easily do by herself.
🤖Jason was an incredible protagonist! Like Sam (and like many of the characters), he has goals and a strong development ARC. His constant nightmares and the calls that he gets for Abaddon are intriguing because Searle gives us just enough to understand while also keeping us on the edge with the slightest vague ending.
🤖The world was incredible! Searle did an amazing job of not info-dumping while also introducing us to the futuristic New Toronto. He weaves the setting into the story, only giving the reader information that they need to know while simultaneously feeding them more description and understanding about the world.
🤖The relationships! Searle knew how to facilitate relationships within this complex plot. Jason's friends and loved ones all have a different kind of relationship with him, from his banter with David, his older brother, to his interactions with Sam and Soo-hyn, two girls that he has feelings for. What's particularly noticeable about this is that Searle - similarly with the setting - doesn't overwhelm the reader with long internal thoughts about Jason's feelings for each character. Instead, he tactfully shows them, through brief points of conversation, poignant paragraphs, or Jason's consice internal monologues.
🤖Anne! This is another character I loved. She's a cyborg who has a compelling backstory that's Searle's way of juxta-positioning good intentions with bad execution (the execution being how Anne's character reacts to the changes). I can't give too much away because of spoilers, but let's just say that after Sam, Anne is my favorite! She has the spunk, the fight, and the bravery to face her trials head-on
𝐖𝐇𝐀𝐓 𝐍𝐄𝐄𝐃𝐒 𝐌𝐎𝐑𝐄 𝐖𝐎𝐑𝐊
(🇮🇳 🇲🇾 🇴🇵🇮🇳🇮🇴🇳)
❤️The Pacing: Searle is an ingenious craftsman of the world of New Toronto, but at times, the pacing felt too slow to develop Jason's ARC. While everyone else was moving forward, I felt like Jason's ARC was being pulled back for the sake of developing the world and the plot.
❤️The Fight Scenes: I'll admit, the fight scenes were incredible! Seeing everyone in action, their movements fluid yet holding something unique to their fighting style and character was investing to read! However, at times, it felt too long. The action was dragged for the sake of Jason's internal monologue or the frequent calls he gets for Abaddon.
❤️The World: New Toronto is a place I want to live in 😂I admire how Searle describes the setting, as mentioned before, and how it's so immersive, but as other reviewers have mentioned (and I've noticed this myself), it feels like we're just thrust into the world. While I love that Searle doesn't info dump, I think we're started with too little information to grasp the face pace of the beginning of the novel.
MY FINAL THOUGHTS
This was my second time reading sci-fi. The first was when I read THE MARTIAN by Andy Weir, and to be honest, I didn't really enjoy it 😅I felt like the prose was too complicated for me to understand the main plot of the story, so I loved that Searle's book was just right for beginners of sci-fi and people already accustomed to the genre. The characters were detailed, the world was complex without being overwhelming, and overall, this is a must read for those of you looking to get into sci-fi or searching for a new book within the genre!
Looking for more of my reviews? Want to contact me? Check out my blog! Shreya Reads, Reviews, and Writes/a>
August 3, 2025
🌪️ When Cosmic Horror Meets Cyberpunk: A Thrilling Descent Into Madness
Rating:
🌟🌟🌟🌟 (4 /5 Stars)
This book grabbed me by the throat from page one and refused to let go. Imagine Philip K. Dick collaborating with H.P. Lovecraft on a cyberpunk thriller, and you might come close to the mind-bending experience that is The Call of Abaddon.
Colin Searle has created something truly special here 🎨. The premise alone is captivating: Jason, a scavenger in the ruins of dying Earth, becomes psychically linked to an ancient alien obelisk that begins rewriting his reality from the inside out. But it's the execution that makes this book shine.
The psychological horror is absolutely masterful 🧠. Searle doesn't just tell us about Jason losing control of his mind; he makes us feel it. The way the Abaddon Beacon infiltrates not just Jason's thoughts but the very technology around him creates this creeping sense of paranoia that had me questioning what was real alongside the protagonist. That growing realization that you might not be in control of your own thoughts anymore? Genuinely terrifying.
The world-building feels incredibly authentic. New Toronto isn't just a backdrop; it's a character drowning in its own decay 🏙️. The contrast between the glossy upper levels and the rotting undercity where Jason scavenges creates this perfect metaphor for a civilization eating itself from within. And the way Searle integrates nanotechnology into both the setting and the plot mechanics is brilliantly done.
What really elevates this book is the character work 💗. Jason and his salvage crew feel like real people with genuine bonds forged in hardship. Their relationships provide the emotional core that keeps you anchored even as reality becomes increasingly unstable. The found family dynamics are beautifully handled without ever feeling forced or sentimental.
The pacing is absolutely relentless. Just when you think you understand what's happening, Searle pulls the rug out from under you again. The revelation about what the United Earth Federation has really been doing with the Beacon's technology is a gut punch that recontextualizes everything that came before.
I also appreciated how this book doesn't shy away from bigger themes. Questions about identity, what makes us human, and whether technological advancement is worth the cost run throughout the narrative without ever feeling preachy 🤔. The parallels to current concerns about AI and loss of human agency feel particularly relevant.
My only small critique is that occasionally the technical explanations can slow the momentum slightly, but honestly, I was so invested in Jason's journey that I barely noticed.
This is science fiction at its best: gripping entertainment that also makes you think. Fans of The Expanse, Altered Carbon, or anything by Jeff VanderMeer will find a lot to love here. Just be prepared for some serious psychological intensity.
If you're looking for something that will completely consume your reading time and leave you staring at the ceiling at 3 AM wondering about the nature of consciousness, The Call of Abaddon is absolutely your book 🌙.
Thank you to Colin Searle and VoraciousReaders for the gifted copy of this book. I was more than happy to leave my honest opinion. WOO HOO!
Rating:
🌟🌟🌟🌟 (4 /5 Stars)
This book grabbed me by the throat from page one and refused to let go. Imagine Philip K. Dick collaborating with H.P. Lovecraft on a cyberpunk thriller, and you might come close to the mind-bending experience that is The Call of Abaddon.
Colin Searle has created something truly special here 🎨. The premise alone is captivating: Jason, a scavenger in the ruins of dying Earth, becomes psychically linked to an ancient alien obelisk that begins rewriting his reality from the inside out. But it's the execution that makes this book shine.
The psychological horror is absolutely masterful 🧠. Searle doesn't just tell us about Jason losing control of his mind; he makes us feel it. The way the Abaddon Beacon infiltrates not just Jason's thoughts but the very technology around him creates this creeping sense of paranoia that had me questioning what was real alongside the protagonist. That growing realization that you might not be in control of your own thoughts anymore? Genuinely terrifying.
The world-building feels incredibly authentic. New Toronto isn't just a backdrop; it's a character drowning in its own decay 🏙️. The contrast between the glossy upper levels and the rotting undercity where Jason scavenges creates this perfect metaphor for a civilization eating itself from within. And the way Searle integrates nanotechnology into both the setting and the plot mechanics is brilliantly done.
What really elevates this book is the character work 💗. Jason and his salvage crew feel like real people with genuine bonds forged in hardship. Their relationships provide the emotional core that keeps you anchored even as reality becomes increasingly unstable. The found family dynamics are beautifully handled without ever feeling forced or sentimental.
The pacing is absolutely relentless. Just when you think you understand what's happening, Searle pulls the rug out from under you again. The revelation about what the United Earth Federation has really been doing with the Beacon's technology is a gut punch that recontextualizes everything that came before.
I also appreciated how this book doesn't shy away from bigger themes. Questions about identity, what makes us human, and whether technological advancement is worth the cost run throughout the narrative without ever feeling preachy 🤔. The parallels to current concerns about AI and loss of human agency feel particularly relevant.
My only small critique is that occasionally the technical explanations can slow the momentum slightly, but honestly, I was so invested in Jason's journey that I barely noticed.
This is science fiction at its best: gripping entertainment that also makes you think. Fans of The Expanse, Altered Carbon, or anything by Jeff VanderMeer will find a lot to love here. Just be prepared for some serious psychological intensity.
If you're looking for something that will completely consume your reading time and leave you staring at the ceiling at 3 AM wondering about the nature of consciousness, The Call of Abaddon is absolutely your book 🌙.
Thank you to Colin Searle and VoraciousReaders for the gifted copy of this book. I was more than happy to leave my honest opinion. WOO HOO!
July 14, 2025
The Call of Abaddon is a dark and deeply imaginative sci-fi thriller that follows Jason, a gifted young scavenger in a crumbling, post-apocalyptic Earth. Haunted by mysterious psychic voices, he and his ragtag team, his snarky brother David, the cool-headed warrior Sam, a charming robot named Talos, and others, venture into the deadly undercity ruins of New Toronto. Along the way, they uncover tech relics, battle infected machines, and confront a terrifying force known as Abaddon, which seems tied to Jason’s dark past and immense psychic power. With a powerful blend of dystopian survival, supernatural mystery, and fast-paced action, the novel builds toward a cosmic-scale threat that only Jason might be able to stop.
I loved how lived-in the world feels. Colin Searle vividly describes a decaying megacity. The dialogue is snappy and real, especially between Jason and David, who constantly needle each other like real siblings. And Sam is just a total badass. Their banter and quirks give the story heart, even when the stakes get terrifying. The tech and world-building are deep without being exhausting, and the tension ramps up fast. I could almost smell the ozone when Talos powered up his weapons or feel the chill when Abaddon whispered from the shadows. It’s that good. I’ll admit, the action scenes get a bit chaotic at times, but I’d take that over sterile precision any day.
What hit hardest, though, were the emotional beats. Jason isn’t just battling aliens or viruses. He’s fighting his own fractured mind. The scenes where Abaddon claws into his thoughts gave me goosebumps. And that growing fear that maybe you’re not in control anymore? That freaked me out. Searle really nails the horror of losing your grip on yourself. At the same time, the bond between the characters, their loyalty, their scars, their bad jokes, kept pulling me back from the edge. It’s a rough, painful, sometimes funny ride that asks big questions without preaching. What makes a person human? What’s worth saving in a world that’s already lost so much?
I’d recommend The Call of Abaddon to anyone who loves gritty sci-fi with a human soul. If you liked Mass Effect, The Expanse, or even the psychological messiness of Evangelion, this one will grab you by the collar. It’s dark, intense, and full of heart. Fans of high-stakes salvage runs, haunted psyches, and sentient evil lurking in the walls? This is your next obsession.
I loved how lived-in the world feels. Colin Searle vividly describes a decaying megacity. The dialogue is snappy and real, especially between Jason and David, who constantly needle each other like real siblings. And Sam is just a total badass. Their banter and quirks give the story heart, even when the stakes get terrifying. The tech and world-building are deep without being exhausting, and the tension ramps up fast. I could almost smell the ozone when Talos powered up his weapons or feel the chill when Abaddon whispered from the shadows. It’s that good. I’ll admit, the action scenes get a bit chaotic at times, but I’d take that over sterile precision any day.
What hit hardest, though, were the emotional beats. Jason isn’t just battling aliens or viruses. He’s fighting his own fractured mind. The scenes where Abaddon claws into his thoughts gave me goosebumps. And that growing fear that maybe you’re not in control anymore? That freaked me out. Searle really nails the horror of losing your grip on yourself. At the same time, the bond between the characters, their loyalty, their scars, their bad jokes, kept pulling me back from the edge. It’s a rough, painful, sometimes funny ride that asks big questions without preaching. What makes a person human? What’s worth saving in a world that’s already lost so much?
I’d recommend The Call of Abaddon to anyone who loves gritty sci-fi with a human soul. If you liked Mass Effect, The Expanse, or even the psychological messiness of Evangelion, this one will grab you by the collar. It’s dark, intense, and full of heart. Fans of high-stakes salvage runs, haunted psyches, and sentient evil lurking in the walls? This is your next obsession.
July 25, 2025
Wow, what a thrilling journey it was! When I first delved into The Call of Abaddon by Colin Searle, I never imagined it would be this captivating! I’m incredibly grateful to the author for kindly sending me an advance copy of this amazing book— it was an absolute pleasure to read and review!
Set in the grim, post-apocalyptic arcology of New Toronto, the story follows Jason, a salvage runner whose existence is irrevocably altered when an ancient alien obelisk— the Abaddon Beacon— invades his mind; and as reality warps and memories slip through his fingers, he must undertake a desperate mission to find and confront the Beacon. As the narrative further unfolds, the reader is taken on a rollercoaster ride of shifting realities and deepening mysteries; and with each revelation, the stakes escalate— not just for his survival, but for the fate of humanity itself.
In this debut novel, the author crafts a haunting vision of the future that feels as intimate as it is immense. The writing is vividly cinematic, with scenes that pulse with tension and a narrative rhythm that rarely lets up. This novel doesn’t just flirt with dystopia; it dives headfirst into the psychic ruins of humanity itself.
But what sets this story apart is the emotional depth woven into its very core. Even while exploring the collapse of humanity, the author skilfully manages to construct something as deeply touching as it is resonant— that true strength stems not from dominance, but from trust, love, and the unwavering resolve to endure; and the very message that even the darkest of our shadows lose their grip on us when we wield them as tools of transformation, is portrayed very beautifully by the author with a raw honesty and poetic intensity that lingers long after the final page.
Bold, brainy and atmospheric, The Call of Abaddon delivers a smart, visceral strike that redefines what speculative fiction can achieve and asserts itself as a defining force poised to reshape the very horizon of the genre.
Set in the grim, post-apocalyptic arcology of New Toronto, the story follows Jason, a salvage runner whose existence is irrevocably altered when an ancient alien obelisk— the Abaddon Beacon— invades his mind; and as reality warps and memories slip through his fingers, he must undertake a desperate mission to find and confront the Beacon. As the narrative further unfolds, the reader is taken on a rollercoaster ride of shifting realities and deepening mysteries; and with each revelation, the stakes escalate— not just for his survival, but for the fate of humanity itself.
In this debut novel, the author crafts a haunting vision of the future that feels as intimate as it is immense. The writing is vividly cinematic, with scenes that pulse with tension and a narrative rhythm that rarely lets up. This novel doesn’t just flirt with dystopia; it dives headfirst into the psychic ruins of humanity itself.
But what sets this story apart is the emotional depth woven into its very core. Even while exploring the collapse of humanity, the author skilfully manages to construct something as deeply touching as it is resonant— that true strength stems not from dominance, but from trust, love, and the unwavering resolve to endure; and the very message that even the darkest of our shadows lose their grip on us when we wield them as tools of transformation, is portrayed very beautifully by the author with a raw honesty and poetic intensity that lingers long after the final page.
Bold, brainy and atmospheric, The Call of Abaddon delivers a smart, visceral strike that redefines what speculative fiction can achieve and asserts itself as a defining force poised to reshape the very horizon of the genre.
June 12, 2025
Sci-fi requires a plethora of skills. Technical ones, the ability of coming up with a captivating plot, and a precise writing style. A triangle of skills, if you will.
Now, that grammar and punctuation have to be on point is hardly newsworthy—that’s true for any published work under the sun. A captivating story is also an unspoken requirement and the second side of this triangle. A precise style, however, is something that needs both innate talent and cultivation.
Searle, debuting here with The Call of Abaddon, has a great grasp on all three.
The grammar is good. It’s been well polished (I saw editors credited, but my copy doesn’t have names; doesn’t matter, hat tip to you!) and it helps the rhymth and flow of the story, a detail I think important. This book is the first one of a series, and it’s 413 pages of tight-packed action, after all.
Intriguing plot, too. I don’t want to spoiler anyone here, which is in polite form and also a struggle for me—I want to point out details, haha. Let’s just say Jason is a strong main character, able to carry the story forward without missing a beat, but the cast of characters supports him really well. I have a soft spot for Sam, who’s maybe the one I thought to be crafted to excellency. Well done!
As for the prose, I have to agree with another reviewer. They said it’s clinical and sterile, which is exactly where I was going up above by saying a certain style just suits sci-fi. It’s what I’m expecting to find going in, and hey? I’m always happy to find my expectations met.
So, is this a round five? Four and a half.
The only thing that doesn’t work for me is the dialogue part. We don’t quite jive, I guess, even after trying the oldest trick in the book, which is sounding some of them out loud. Being The Call of Abaddon a debut, tho, this can only improve and I’m eager to see it done in the next installment.
4.5 stars on GR.
Now, that grammar and punctuation have to be on point is hardly newsworthy—that’s true for any published work under the sun. A captivating story is also an unspoken requirement and the second side of this triangle. A precise style, however, is something that needs both innate talent and cultivation.
Searle, debuting here with The Call of Abaddon, has a great grasp on all three.
The grammar is good. It’s been well polished (I saw editors credited, but my copy doesn’t have names; doesn’t matter, hat tip to you!) and it helps the rhymth and flow of the story, a detail I think important. This book is the first one of a series, and it’s 413 pages of tight-packed action, after all.
Intriguing plot, too. I don’t want to spoiler anyone here, which is in polite form and also a struggle for me—I want to point out details, haha. Let’s just say Jason is a strong main character, able to carry the story forward without missing a beat, but the cast of characters supports him really well. I have a soft spot for Sam, who’s maybe the one I thought to be crafted to excellency. Well done!
As for the prose, I have to agree with another reviewer. They said it’s clinical and sterile, which is exactly where I was going up above by saying a certain style just suits sci-fi. It’s what I’m expecting to find going in, and hey? I’m always happy to find my expectations met.
So, is this a round five? Four and a half.
The only thing that doesn’t work for me is the dialogue part. We don’t quite jive, I guess, even after trying the oldest trick in the book, which is sounding some of them out loud. Being The Call of Abaddon a debut, tho, this can only improve and I’m eager to see it done in the next installment.
4.5 stars on GR.
July 6, 2025
The Wishing Shelf Book Awards
EDITORIAL REVIEW
5th July 2025
TITLE: THE CALL OF ABADDON
AUTHOR: Colin Searle
Star Rating: 5
‘A gripping, sci-fi adventure with a cast of memorable characters. Highly recommended!’ The Wishing Shelf
REVIEW
A very much enjoyed this adventure novel, the first in the set it seems, from the pen of talented writer, Colin Searle. Written with energy, the story Is smartly plotted, and the futuristic, dystopian world is well-imaged.
It’s the story of Jason and an ‘obelisk’ called the Abaddon. It’s determined to contact him, to control him; the only thing Jason can do is go looking for it and possibly destroy it. And that’s not his only problem. There’s a powerful Emperor who’s determined control the obelisk, using it to further his ambitions.
There’s a lot to enjoy in this novel. The author did a wonderful job of sharing his dark concept of the future. In fact, the setting Is possibly the novel’s strongest aspect. It’s not a world you want to live in, but it is a world you want to explore! I also liked the protagonist, Jason, very much. He’s a pretty determined sort of fellow, a bit messed up, the perfect hero in any ways. Finally, it’s a very exciting story (particularly the second half), with never a dull moment and strong pacing.
So, all you adventure/sci-fi/dystopian fans out there, check out THE CALL OF ABADDON. I suspect most reader will enjoy the energy of the writing style, and exploring the futuristic, rather dark world the author’s created. Also, I think most readers will love getting to know Jason, and they’ll be rooting for him to save the day – and himself!
A ‘Wishing Shelf’ Book Review
www.thewsa.co.uk
EDITORIAL REVIEW
5th July 2025
TITLE: THE CALL OF ABADDON
AUTHOR: Colin Searle
Star Rating: 5
‘A gripping, sci-fi adventure with a cast of memorable characters. Highly recommended!’ The Wishing Shelf
REVIEW
A very much enjoyed this adventure novel, the first in the set it seems, from the pen of talented writer, Colin Searle. Written with energy, the story Is smartly plotted, and the futuristic, dystopian world is well-imaged.
It’s the story of Jason and an ‘obelisk’ called the Abaddon. It’s determined to contact him, to control him; the only thing Jason can do is go looking for it and possibly destroy it. And that’s not his only problem. There’s a powerful Emperor who’s determined control the obelisk, using it to further his ambitions.
There’s a lot to enjoy in this novel. The author did a wonderful job of sharing his dark concept of the future. In fact, the setting Is possibly the novel’s strongest aspect. It’s not a world you want to live in, but it is a world you want to explore! I also liked the protagonist, Jason, very much. He’s a pretty determined sort of fellow, a bit messed up, the perfect hero in any ways. Finally, it’s a very exciting story (particularly the second half), with never a dull moment and strong pacing.
So, all you adventure/sci-fi/dystopian fans out there, check out THE CALL OF ABADDON. I suspect most reader will enjoy the energy of the writing style, and exploring the futuristic, rather dark world the author’s created. Also, I think most readers will love getting to know Jason, and they’ll be rooting for him to save the day – and himself!
A ‘Wishing Shelf’ Book Review
www.thewsa.co.uk
July 15, 2025
The Call of Abaddon drops us straight into neon-soaked New Toronto, where ex-street kid Jason and his salvage crew comb a rotting megacity for half-functional nanotech. By page three, malfunctioning bots are sparking, black-market implants are changing hands, and a strange psychic signal is tunneling into Jason’s head, promising trouble if he dares ignore it.
The spine of the novel is Jason’s unwanted link to the Abaddon Beacon—an ancient obelisk that hijacks his dreams and starts rewriting the very tech he lives on. Colin Searle layers that creeping dread over kinetic salvage runs and under-city gunfights, all while a self-replicating nanite “Phage” looms in the background, ready to turn yesterday’s gadgets into tomorrow’s monsters.
What keeps the grimness from swallowing the book is the crew’s banter. Their gallows humor and sibling snark feel lived-in, grounding the high-concept horror in recognizably human friction. When reactor seals fail or a rust-bucket drone opens fire, the arguments feel like the kinds you’d have with friends while racing to plug a leak.
Scope-creep is the one snag: the action rockets from claustrophobic tunnels to full-blown interplanetary war. A late exposition dump about the Solar Empire’s crusade opens the universe but also stalls the momentum just long enough to notice. Even so, Searle’s knack for crunchy tech and apocalyptic imagery keeps the pages—and the debris—flying.
Find my full review here: https://likelystory.blog/2025/07/14/r...
The spine of the novel is Jason’s unwanted link to the Abaddon Beacon—an ancient obelisk that hijacks his dreams and starts rewriting the very tech he lives on. Colin Searle layers that creeping dread over kinetic salvage runs and under-city gunfights, all while a self-replicating nanite “Phage” looms in the background, ready to turn yesterday’s gadgets into tomorrow’s monsters.
What keeps the grimness from swallowing the book is the crew’s banter. Their gallows humor and sibling snark feel lived-in, grounding the high-concept horror in recognizably human friction. When reactor seals fail or a rust-bucket drone opens fire, the arguments feel like the kinds you’d have with friends while racing to plug a leak.
Scope-creep is the one snag: the action rockets from claustrophobic tunnels to full-blown interplanetary war. A late exposition dump about the Solar Empire’s crusade opens the universe but also stalls the momentum just long enough to notice. Even so, Searle’s knack for crunchy tech and apocalyptic imagery keeps the pages—and the debris—flying.
Find my full review here: https://likelystory.blog/2025/07/14/r...
July 15, 2025
The Call of Abaddon by Colin Searle is an electrifying ride through a dying world. As someone who loves stories blending sci-fi with mythic terror, I was immediately drawn into Jason’s gritty struggle for survival in New Toronto. The city’s ruined landscape felt real and oppressive, a perfect backdrop for the rising dread of the Abaddon Beacon’s influence.
What captivated me was how the story masterfully combines political intrigue reminiscent of Dune with the eldritch menace of Lovecraft. Jason’s psychic awakening and the threat of the alien obelisk kept me on the edge of my seat—every page pulsed with tension. The idea that this ancient alien technology has infiltrated human society as a gift with a sinister purpose made the stakes feel even higher.
I also appreciated the complex moral choices Jason faces—should he harness his growing power or resist, risking the loss of himself? The narrative explores themes of power, control, and sacrifice in a way that resonated deeply. Overall, The Call of Abaddon is a compelling blend of myth, politics, and cosmic horror that left me eager for more—a must-read for fans of epic, dark sci-fi.
What captivated me was how the story masterfully combines political intrigue reminiscent of Dune with the eldritch menace of Lovecraft. Jason’s psychic awakening and the threat of the alien obelisk kept me on the edge of my seat—every page pulsed with tension. The idea that this ancient alien technology has infiltrated human society as a gift with a sinister purpose made the stakes feel even higher.
I also appreciated the complex moral choices Jason faces—should he harness his growing power or resist, risking the loss of himself? The narrative explores themes of power, control, and sacrifice in a way that resonated deeply. Overall, The Call of Abaddon is a compelling blend of myth, politics, and cosmic horror that left me eager for more—a must-read for fans of epic, dark sci-fi.
July 15, 2025
From the moment I started The Call of Abaddon, I knew I was in for a dark and immersive experience. The setting—a fractured Earth on the brink of annihilation—felt disturbingly plausible, and Jason’s journey from a scavenger to potential savior was both thrilling and emotionally charged. The novel’s atmosphere is thick with dread and wonders, perfectly capturing the eldritch terror of the Abaddon Beacon that invades his mind.
What stood out most to me was the intricate world-building—blending the political machinations of a galactic empire with ancient alien technology that’s both a gift and a curse. The story reminded me of the best of Dune and The Expanse, with layers of intrigue and a universe teetering on the brink of chaos. Jason’s internal struggle—whether to embrace or resist the alien power—added a profound depth that elevated the story beyond mere action.
This book is perfect for a Motion Picture.
What stood out most to me was the intricate world-building—blending the political machinations of a galactic empire with ancient alien technology that’s both a gift and a curse. The story reminded me of the best of Dune and The Expanse, with layers of intrigue and a universe teetering on the brink of chaos. Jason’s internal struggle—whether to embrace or resist the alien power—added a profound depth that elevated the story beyond mere action.
This book is perfect for a Motion Picture.
July 11, 2025
The Call of Abaddon is a sprawling science fiction narrative with a post-apocalyptic solar system-wide war, cybernetic humans, robots, a nanotech pandemic and an alien obelisk with a hidden agenda. The various plot threads are handled skillfully and there's lots of action.
This book is the first in a series, and while it is understandable that certain issues are not resolved, the book could have used an additional chapter at the end. We are introduced to dozens of characters, but after the climax, most of these characters are missing from the text. Having spent the entire story following their own agendas, what’s their response to events? Presumably future volumes will provide answers, but it left this reader frustrated.
This book is the first in a series, and while it is understandable that certain issues are not resolved, the book could have used an additional chapter at the end. We are introduced to dozens of characters, but after the climax, most of these characters are missing from the text. Having spent the entire story following their own agendas, what’s their response to events? Presumably future volumes will provide answers, but it left this reader frustrated.
July 24, 2025
I had the privilege of being a beta reader for The Call of Abaddon. The story follows Jason, an escaped test subject with uncontrollable psychic powers, as he journeys across the solar system to confront the enigmatic Aperture—a force responsible for planetary destruction and deep personal torment. Only to discover he’s more entangled in its dark design than he ever imagined. I had immense entertainment from its well-established world-building, emotionally layered characters, and an intense, action-packed narrative that weaves personal sacrifice, political ambition, and psychic warfare into a thrilling and satisfying story. This proved to be an engaging and thought-provoking read. I’d gladly recommend it to any fan of character-driven science fiction.
August 20, 2025
DNF after the transition from a dystopian Earth to space, with hints of magic. What? I'm confused.
Then there were discussions of Mars which made me think this was the second in a series. So I stopped to look, but no this is a first-time book. But I'm missing some background you haven't told me about. Again, confused.
So I put this down, really meaning to pick it up again. But it's been 2 weeks now, and I just can't be bothered. None of the characters are appealing to me. So, yeah. It's a DNF.
Then there were discussions of Mars which made me think this was the second in a series. So I stopped to look, but no this is a first-time book. But I'm missing some background you haven't told me about. Again, confused.
So I put this down, really meaning to pick it up again. But it's been 2 weeks now, and I just can't be bothered. None of the characters are appealing to me. So, yeah. It's a DNF.
July 30, 2025
The Call of Abaddon is a gripping and suspenseful novel that blends mystery, supernatural elements, and fast-paced action. Colin Searle crafts a dark and immersive atmosphere, keeping readers hooked from beginning to end. With well-developed characters and a plot full of twists, this book is a thrilling ride for fans of horror and supernatural thrillers.
July 29, 2025
The Call of Abaddon sounds like a masterclass in world-building and suspense. The mix of Lovecraftian horror and The Expanse-style politics is a winning combo. Jason's journey from scavenger to potential savior is compelling - I'm in!
July 29, 2025
The Call of Abaddon blends epic sci-fi with dark mystery in a way that kept me hooked the entire time. The worldbuilding is intense but never overwhelming, and the pacing is perfect — moments of action balanced with deeper, emotional scenes.
July 29, 2025
The Call of Abaddon is an intense blend of apocalyptic mystery and supernatural suspense. It follows a gripping journey as dark omens, ancient secrets, and unstoppable forces converge. With fast pacing and deep lore, it’s perfect for fans of end-times thrillers with a mythological twist.
July 29, 2025
I love it
July 29, 2025
this book is very cool, recommend it!
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