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First Contact
Gold Rush
Astronomers discover an interstellar comet on a collision course with Venus. Not since Comet Shoemaker–Levy 9 struck Jupiter in 1994 has a collision captured the public's imagination, but all is not what it seems. Additional observations reveal a second comet also on a collision course with Venus, sparking speculation about the possibility of extraterrestrial involvement. NASA astronaut Dice Newman is already in space, heading to Venus to observe the impact, when confirmation comes of an alien spacecraft entering the solar system.
"Gold gave birth to cities and cemeteries alike.” —John David Borthwick, California (1854)
FIRST CONTACT is a series of stand-alone novels that explore humanity's first interaction with extraterrestrial life. This series is similar to BLACK MIRROR or THE TWILIGHT ZONE in that the series is based on a common theme rather than common characters. This allows these books to be read in any order. Technically, they're all first as they all deal with how we might initially respond to contact with aliens, exploring the social, political, religious, and scientific aspects of First Contact.
"Gold gave birth to cities and cemeteries alike.” —John David Borthwick, California (1854)
FIRST CONTACT is a series of stand-alone novels that explore humanity's first interaction with extraterrestrial life. This series is similar to BLACK MIRROR or THE TWILIGHT ZONE in that the series is based on a common theme rather than common characters. This allows these books to be read in any order. Technically, they're all first as they all deal with how we might initially respond to contact with aliens, exploring the social, political, religious, and scientific aspects of First Contact.
- GenresScience Fiction
401 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 25, 2025
193 people are currently reading
88 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
July 31, 2025
I say this each time I review a Peter Cawdron book, it is hard to believe that he has now churned out thirty-one First Contact books with each being excellent hard science Science Fiction. I no sooner finish reading one great book when there is another one written and waiting for me! Each novel is unique, each approach to First Contact is new, and his writing is always engaging. And I haven’t even gotten to the Afterword, one of my favorite parts.
Apparently Cawdron has had enough of both Elon Musk and Mars as, in this book, he pokes at each of these. The atmosphere around Venus is, according to Cawdron, a much better place for us to be thinking of for our first, off-earth habitat. Not only is this idea the central theme of Gold Rush but he manages to explain the science and the reasoning behind it within the storyline.
Our main character is Dr. Jill Yakov - an astrophysicist who’s just discovered a comet that is heading toward Venus. Not only is it going to impact the planet but the comet is coming in off the plane of ecliptic. Simply put, this means that this particular object is from outside of our solar system. To witness this event, observational satellites are being sent to Venus to study this once in a lifetime event. All is going well until a second object is discovered to be trailing the comet.
Without giving away the plot, I can tell you that there are scientists, billionaires, astronauts, spaceflights, and, of course, aliens. There is a lot of science, politics, subplots, and a bit of romance but Cawdron waxes philosophically throughout this book. What makes us human, what a first contact should be about, and, of course, science. I particularly liked this paragraph:
“What is the difference between science and religion? Or science and politics? Or science and our own pride and ego? Nothing, really. We all make claims. Science does too. The difference lies in testing those claims. Science is impartial. It’s repeatable. It doesn’t matter how angry or passionate I am about vaccines or a flat/round Earth, you can use science to test your claims. Science isn’t perfect. It’s simply the only system we’ve ever devised that demands we’re honest with our claims. Science is important because it aligns our ideas with reality and allows us to recognize when we’re wrong.”
AFTERWORD - this is the place at the end of his books where Cawdron explains the science mentioned in his hard science novels. In this one he presents information about science, the Rig Veda, Mars vs Venus, Terraforming, comets, Delta-V, Carbon, Atmosphere, Sled-Launched Rockets, and more. As always, I found these few pages absolutely fascinating.
In addition to the science, Cawdron’s books always include a bit of what I refer to as fluff. These are bits and pieces that are not necessary to the story. In fact, they are often almost frivolous and could easily be left out. However, I’ve learned that these little “time outs” let me rest and regroup after all of the science. This is the genius that makes Cawdron’s hard science books so readable. In fact, I can easily imagine someone who “hates” science loving his books and not completely realizing that they have sucked into the wonderful world of hard science, science fiction.
Apparently Cawdron has had enough of both Elon Musk and Mars as, in this book, he pokes at each of these. The atmosphere around Venus is, according to Cawdron, a much better place for us to be thinking of for our first, off-earth habitat. Not only is this idea the central theme of Gold Rush but he manages to explain the science and the reasoning behind it within the storyline.
Our main character is Dr. Jill Yakov - an astrophysicist who’s just discovered a comet that is heading toward Venus. Not only is it going to impact the planet but the comet is coming in off the plane of ecliptic. Simply put, this means that this particular object is from outside of our solar system. To witness this event, observational satellites are being sent to Venus to study this once in a lifetime event. All is going well until a second object is discovered to be trailing the comet.
Without giving away the plot, I can tell you that there are scientists, billionaires, astronauts, spaceflights, and, of course, aliens. There is a lot of science, politics, subplots, and a bit of romance but Cawdron waxes philosophically throughout this book. What makes us human, what a first contact should be about, and, of course, science. I particularly liked this paragraph:
“What is the difference between science and religion? Or science and politics? Or science and our own pride and ego? Nothing, really. We all make claims. Science does too. The difference lies in testing those claims. Science is impartial. It’s repeatable. It doesn’t matter how angry or passionate I am about vaccines or a flat/round Earth, you can use science to test your claims. Science isn’t perfect. It’s simply the only system we’ve ever devised that demands we’re honest with our claims. Science is important because it aligns our ideas with reality and allows us to recognize when we’re wrong.”
AFTERWORD - this is the place at the end of his books where Cawdron explains the science mentioned in his hard science novels. In this one he presents information about science, the Rig Veda, Mars vs Venus, Terraforming, comets, Delta-V, Carbon, Atmosphere, Sled-Launched Rockets, and more. As always, I found these few pages absolutely fascinating.
In addition to the science, Cawdron’s books always include a bit of what I refer to as fluff. These are bits and pieces that are not necessary to the story. In fact, they are often almost frivolous and could easily be left out. However, I’ve learned that these little “time outs” let me rest and regroup after all of the science. This is the genius that makes Cawdron’s hard science books so readable. In fact, I can easily imagine someone who “hates” science loving his books and not completely realizing that they have sucked into the wonderful world of hard science, science fiction.
July 26, 2025
First contact, a bonanza of...
Another installment in the first contact series. The series shows us what first contact learns us about ourselves. As before the writing is great and the explanations given are not too long to hinder the story, you may actually learn something and can explain concepts to somebody else.
This IS Science fiction as it is meant to be and mirrors important messages without being pedantic.
If you like thoughtful scifi go along on the gold rush.
Another installment in the first contact series. The series shows us what first contact learns us about ourselves. As before the writing is great and the explanations given are not too long to hinder the story, you may actually learn something and can explain concepts to somebody else.
This IS Science fiction as it is meant to be and mirrors important messages without being pedantic.
If you like thoughtful scifi go along on the gold rush.
July 26, 2025
good one
Another great first contact book from Peter cawdron. I believe I’ve read them all and there are many. This one will keep you guessing till the last page. Well worth a read
Another great first contact book from Peter cawdron. I believe I’ve read them all and there are many. This one will keep you guessing till the last page. Well worth a read
July 30, 2025
Back to his best again!
If you’ve been disappointed with his last few books, this is right up with his best again. Hard yet accessible Science Fiction, with a great story, characters and world building. As I was reading I had no idea where the story was going, but I liked the ending. Lots of tension to keep reading… Definitely worth reading IMHO
If you’ve been disappointed with his last few books, this is right up with his best again. Hard yet accessible Science Fiction, with a great story, characters and world building. As I was reading I had no idea where the story was going, but I liked the ending. Lots of tension to keep reading… Definitely worth reading IMHO
July 28, 2025
Another Cawdron Winner
Peter puts the science in science fiction. I always learn a lot from reading his “fiction” which is as meticulously researched as a Ph.D thesis. I find his philosophy uplifting as well.
Peter puts the science in science fiction. I always learn a lot from reading his “fiction” which is as meticulously researched as a Ph.D thesis. I find his philosophy uplifting as well.
August 5, 2025
If you are a science fiction fan and have not read Peter Cawdron's First Contact series (about 20 or so novels that are independent of one another but all deal in some fashion with the idea of "first contact" with alien life), then you have deprived yourself of a truly spectacular experience. The stories are fresh, dynamic and grab your interest. The viewpoints on how humanity will respond to meeting alien life are myriad and well-represented in Cawdron's novels. His characters are three-dimensional, with strengths and weaknesses that are accessible and understandable, and his characters' personalities and experiences definitely drive the choices they make in the story line. The aliens, too, are imaginatively portrayed. Cawdron also is a real science geek. His novels rely upon and clearly explain and display scientific principles. You will be educated without even being aware because these books are grounded in real science and this adds to the enjoyment. Cawdron spins a great story, the writing is first class and I start a new one as soon as I finish one. Read these novels. You will be glad you did.
August 12, 2025
Awesome
I really enjoyed this book. Not only the concepts but also the deep philosophical discussions. I was almost tempted to stop early on because of the complexity. I am glad that I continued because it really developed and I loved the ending. Highly recommended. Of note, there is currently a comet with different presentation heading towards earth. Some speculation that are similar to themes in this novel.
I really enjoyed this book. Not only the concepts but also the deep philosophical discussions. I was almost tempted to stop early on because of the complexity. I am glad that I continued because it really developed and I loved the ending. Highly recommended. Of note, there is currently a comet with different presentation heading towards earth. Some speculation that are similar to themes in this novel.
August 13, 2025
Overall a new and interesting story.
I enjoyed the book as it contained twists I did see and some I didn't see coming. Some of the details and descriptions seemed to get lost and too deep, but overall I was a good read from start to finish.
I enjoyed the book as it contained twists I did see and some I didn't see coming. Some of the details and descriptions seemed to get lost and too deep, but overall I was a good read from start to finish.
September 13, 2025
Peter Cawdron delivers a compelling, reasonable, and realistic novel about what imminent first contact with an alien species might mean for humanity. The story is thought-provoking and engaging. with suspense, but also relatable and interesting characters. (Bonus: an unexpected and fun bit of romance, too!)
I give this book four stars: an enjoyable and intellectually stimulating read. If you’re seeking a smart, grounded sci-fi novel that examines not just alien life but our own humanity, Gold Rush is definitely worth your time. And, make sure to read the afterword - it was great!
I give this book four stars: an enjoyable and intellectually stimulating read. If you’re seeking a smart, grounded sci-fi novel that examines not just alien life but our own humanity, Gold Rush is definitely worth your time. And, make sure to read the afterword - it was great!
August 7, 2025
gold rush/adrenaline rush/head rush!
A exciting story Mr. Cawdron has woven here. As always, he brings a great amount of detail about the characters, and the science behind the fiction. There were a few passages where I could not read fast enough, my heat pounding as the action played out.
A common theme of PC’s first contact novels is how first contact is as much a study of ourselves as a species and how we react when we realize we are not alone in the universe. It was nice to see the story focus a little more on the positive potential of humanity. I also appreciate the underlying message in the story that life is precious: appreciate and enjoy the miracle it is to be alive!
A exciting story Mr. Cawdron has woven here. As always, he brings a great amount of detail about the characters, and the science behind the fiction. There were a few passages where I could not read fast enough, my heat pounding as the action played out.
A common theme of PC’s first contact novels is how first contact is as much a study of ourselves as a species and how we react when we realize we are not alone in the universe. It was nice to see the story focus a little more on the positive potential of humanity. I also appreciate the underlying message in the story that life is precious: appreciate and enjoy the miracle it is to be alive!
August 11, 2025
A good read
Mr. Cawdron writes a fast paced novel with sufficient hard science to add plausibility to the story. The problem solving skills of the characters add to the novel’s interest.
Mr. Cawdron writes a fast paced novel with sufficient hard science to add plausibility to the story. The problem solving skills of the characters add to the novel’s interest.
August 7, 2025
Very good science.
I am a regular reader of Peter Cawdron, and this is one of his better recent books. The best parts of most of Mr. Cawdron's books involve his ability to include science facts and science based speculation into the plot. The science is very good in this novel and the added pages of comments by the author at the end of the book add some greater depth to logic involved. Perhaps the planet Venus provides a greater opportunity for inclusion of current science. In any case, I enjoyed this publication and look forward to more.
I am a regular reader of Peter Cawdron, and this is one of his better recent books. The best parts of most of Mr. Cawdron's books involve his ability to include science facts and science based speculation into the plot. The science is very good in this novel and the added pages of comments by the author at the end of the book add some greater depth to logic involved. Perhaps the planet Venus provides a greater opportunity for inclusion of current science. In any case, I enjoyed this publication and look forward to more.
August 9, 2025
Anothe Great First Contact Novel
Mr. Cawdron never disappoints and this book was just phenomenal. The different stories all come together at the end and I’m just in awe of the imagination and work it took to write a superb first contact story. No I’m not going to tell you anything except read this book it won’t disappoint.
Mr. Cawdron never disappoints and this book was just phenomenal. The different stories all come together at the end and I’m just in awe of the imagination and work it took to write a superb first contact story. No I’m not going to tell you anything except read this book it won’t disappoint.
August 10, 2025
Venus Enjoyed
Great converging storylines with good suspense and humor along the way. It would be great to have follow-ups of the lives of the characters in many of the First Contact series.
Great converging storylines with good suspense and humor along the way. It would be great to have follow-ups of the lives of the characters in many of the First Contact series.
August 11, 2025
Really good stuff
I really like Peter Cawdron's stories and this one certainly doesn't disappoint. Good hard SF with plenty of human interest and philosophy.
I really like Peter Cawdron's stories and this one certainly doesn't disappoint. Good hard SF with plenty of human interest and philosophy.
August 6, 2025
Wow, what a great book... this may be the best yet from this author. The story is unique, and I love that Venus was put front and center instead of Mars. A beautifully written First Contact story with a twist and a jolt!
There's something for everybody here - great characters, a little romance and some great science. Enjoy!
There's something for everybody here - great characters, a little romance and some great science. Enjoy!
September 9, 2025
another great, believable First Contact story from Peter Cawdron
Peter’s books are continually creative, ferreting out new ideas to make us truly think. He clearly researches constantly, and prompts me to delve deeper into concepts that I am already somewhat familiar with. Add to that his extremely good characterizations and narratives, and we yet again have a winner here with a great underlying message about both ourselves and the Universe we live in.
Gold Rush had great pacing and all the elements of good classic SciFi - please keep ‘em coming, Peter!
Peter’s books are continually creative, ferreting out new ideas to make us truly think. He clearly researches constantly, and prompts me to delve deeper into concepts that I am already somewhat familiar with. Add to that his extremely good characterizations and narratives, and we yet again have a winner here with a great underlying message about both ourselves and the Universe we live in.
Gold Rush had great pacing and all the elements of good classic SciFi - please keep ‘em coming, Peter!
August 9, 2025
Peter’s imagination
After almost three dozen completely different novels written about the same premise, Peter’s imagination remains boundless. He is amazing to the extreme.
After almost three dozen completely different novels written about the same premise, Peter’s imagination remains boundless. He is amazing to the extreme.
August 3, 2025
Actual science, only fictional
Maybe one day, as we sip our morning coffee, a news story will inform us we have visitors. What should we do? How should we think? I'm sure the government has a folder somewhere labeled "First Contact Protocols" and inside is a collection of Peter Cawdron stories. His talent isn't that he is a great author ( he is! ) it is that he can imagine multiple ways a first contact scenario can
Maybe one day, as we sip our morning coffee, a news story will inform us we have visitors. What should we do? How should we think? I'm sure the government has a folder somewhere labeled "First Contact Protocols" and inside is a collection of Peter Cawdron stories. His talent isn't that he is a great author ( he is! ) it is that he can imagine multiple ways a first contact scenario can
August 2, 2025
Another great exciting, intense & thought-provoking story.
Thank you, Peter, for providing We, your Readers, with yet another great and very exciting, intense & thought-provoking story for our enjoyment & enlightenment. Well-done, as always.
Take care, be safe, and please keep up with your fantastic writing,
Jim
Thank you, Peter, for providing We, your Readers, with yet another great and very exciting, intense & thought-provoking story for our enjoyment & enlightenment. Well-done, as always.
Take care, be safe, and please keep up with your fantastic writing,
Jim
August 2, 2025
Great Read
Another great read from Peter Cawdron. I have read, and enjoyed, all of Peter’s “First Contact “ novels. They combine the latest of scientific discoveries with credible characters and innovative plot development.
Well done Peter.
Another great read from Peter Cawdron. I have read, and enjoyed, all of Peter’s “First Contact “ novels. They combine the latest of scientific discoveries with credible characters and innovative plot development.
Well done Peter.
July 31, 2025
Very enjoyable and thought provoking
I really enjoyed the premise of this book and learned a lot about Venus. I always thought Venus was a hell hole and it is but had no idea it could be possible to have floating ships in its clouds. Another thought provoking book that I have come to expect from Peter.
I really enjoyed the premise of this book and learned a lot about Venus. I always thought Venus was a hell hole and it is but had no idea it could be possible to have floating ships in its clouds. Another thought provoking book that I have come to expect from Peter.
August 3, 2025
Good stuff!
Read it. Causes you to think. We should look to ourselves to solve our problems. Support rising science fiction authors.
Read it. Causes you to think. We should look to ourselves to solve our problems. Support rising science fiction authors.
August 22, 2025
As always, Peter Cawdron’s blending of hard science fiction with otherworldly plots and sub-plots make his First Contact series an interesting and intelligent reading experience. Gold Rush is no exception. The context is that astrophysicists discover a large comet (Comet Yakov) heading toward planet Venus from an unexpected orbit with a second unknown object closely behind it. On the surface, one might think, “Who cares, it’s not pointed at planet Earth.” However, Peter Cawdron adds in a variety of extra elements to include corporate interests, media involvement, political concerns, terraforming, and of course, ET aliens, to give many dimensions to this story.
I thought that the story moved along smoothly, plenty of action, except for those chapters which interrupted the momentum to dwell on an individual character’s extended thoughts, which at times took a detour from the task at hand. It was like being immersed in a great TV movie, and just when things get interesting, up pops a series of commercials, only to return minutes later to the story.
Overall, I thought that the hard sci-fi with the explanation of various scientific / astronomical principles was great, the characters were 3-dimensional, and the mystery of an alien intruder was overarching. With the many Peter Cawdron novels that I have read, there is always something new I have learned. This was one of his better novels.
I thought that the story moved along smoothly, plenty of action, except for those chapters which interrupted the momentum to dwell on an individual character’s extended thoughts, which at times took a detour from the task at hand. It was like being immersed in a great TV movie, and just when things get interesting, up pops a series of commercials, only to return minutes later to the story.
Overall, I thought that the hard sci-fi with the explanation of various scientific / astronomical principles was great, the characters were 3-dimensional, and the mystery of an alien intruder was overarching. With the many Peter Cawdron novels that I have read, there is always something new I have learned. This was one of his better novels.
August 30, 2025
Another excellent novel by the author. This one could be made into a film as the idea is an interesting and topical one. Peter makes a note in the afterword that his sales are down 50% due to piracy and AI. That’s a real shame because he writes very high quality hard Sci Fi and I don’t think there are many writers out there at the moment of his consistantly strong standard. I think the longer novels are best and what I would like is for Peter to write a 3 book series on first contact- I think this would cement his reputation.
August 28, 2025
Another true gem...
Mr. Cawdron is a truly unique creator. "Gold Rush" is another wonderful example of his insightful genius. Well balanced, recognizable characters and a storyline that captivates, educates and illuminates. I have read everything that Cawdron has published and have never been disappointed. (Maybe once, if I recall, but I couldn't tell you which story. And, it was more likely than not, to have been my expectations and state of mind at the time...) I recommend that you give this book a shot. Then go get the rest of this wonderful series of books.
Thank you, Peter, for another delightful journey.
Mr. Cawdron is a truly unique creator. "Gold Rush" is another wonderful example of his insightful genius. Well balanced, recognizable characters and a storyline that captivates, educates and illuminates. I have read everything that Cawdron has published and have never been disappointed. (Maybe once, if I recall, but I couldn't tell you which story. And, it was more likely than not, to have been my expectations and state of mind at the time...) I recommend that you give this book a shot. Then go get the rest of this wonderful series of books.
Thank you, Peter, for another delightful journey.
August 29, 2025
Another fantastic book. Its a brilliantly written page turner. Peter Cawdron mixes science fact with science fiction brilliantly, making some outlandish ideas seem extremely plausible. He has beautifully 'drawn' characters and back stories as well. I have read all (I think) of his books, and look forward to the next. Five stars!!!
August 30, 2025
Great book.
Awesome characters and a believable plot. Filled with action and thought provoking reflections of our current world. Finding an author who is an excellent writer is such a treat. I will be looking for other books by him.
Awesome characters and a believable plot. Filled with action and thought provoking reflections of our current world. Finding an author who is an excellent writer is such a treat. I will be looking for other books by him.
August 28, 2025
Peter did it again
I like the penetrating description of why there is conspiracies. The science context, the historical references, the funny satire of the politicians. All that makes for a very good read.
I like the penetrating description of why there is conspiracies. The science context, the historical references, the funny satire of the politicians. All that makes for a very good read.
August 23, 2025
Excellent.... Again.
Each of these stories are very different and yet each one makes me root for the hero and feel for the villain. How much better could it be?
Each of these stories are very different and yet each one makes me root for the hero and feel for the villain. How much better could it be?
Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews