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Lightborn: Dawn of Darkness: Biblical Fantasy Adventure in a Pre-Flood World of Survival and Wilderness (Book 1)
Freed from slavery into a brutal world before the global flood, Uldako must endure a land where darkness lingers, beasts roam, and the truth he uncovers carries eternal weight.Lightborn™: Dawn of Darkness is a biblical fantasy adventure set in a vast, untamed landscape inspired by the earliest days of humanity. Life is uncertain. Civilizations are fragile. Danger is constant. Uldako fights to stay free as he searches for family and a place to belong.But survival is only the beginning.As he presses deeper into a land shaped by seen and unseen forces, Uldako uncovers truths about his origins and a prophecy that will shape the future of mankind.This epic story is perfect for readers who enjoy immersive fantasy journeys and faith-infused fiction, featuring characters whofollow a journey of freedom, identity, and belongingfight to stay alive in a brutal, untamed worlduncover a prophecy, a powerful bloodline, and the truth behind bothface dangerous creatures and unseen spiritual forcesnavigate a world where darkness is confronted through faith, hope, and redemption
Set in a pre-flood world inspired by early Genesis, Lightborn™ blends raw endurance with ancient wonder and biblically inspired worldbuilding. The descendants of Adam, blessed with centuries-long lives, endure a harsh land shaped by natural and supernatural forces. A prophecy―and the truth buried within it―looms over humanity’s future.Follow Uldako’s journey through danger, discovery, and deeper truth as you take the first step into The Forgotten World Saga.
Set in a pre-flood world inspired by early Genesis, Lightborn™ blends raw endurance with ancient wonder and biblically inspired worldbuilding. The descendants of Adam, blessed with centuries-long lives, endure a harsh land shaped by natural and supernatural forces. A prophecy―and the truth buried within it―looms over humanity’s future.Follow Uldako’s journey through danger, discovery, and deeper truth as you take the first step into The Forgotten World Saga.
- GenresFantasyChristian Fiction
576 pages, Paperback
Published October 6, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 7 of 7 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I have been a student of Scripture for over 50 years, I love Scripture because for one thing I find it fascinating. Often I have wondered about certain things that were not specifically said and here I find that the pre-flood world is imminently more detailed than I had pictured it. I was fed the caveman picture since my youth.
This is wonderfully researched and very interesting; it is a thousand times more believable than the neanderthal hypothesis, and I am so happy I read it.
It is also well-written and in correct English ... which is beyond wonderful in this day and age.
I will not give away the plot, but will be purrchasing more books in this series, and sharing them by offering them as gifts. It is vitally necessary for this sort of book to be read by Believers as well as non-Believers.
This book has enriched my Scripture reading I am far, far, far beyond grateful for that.
This is wonderfully researched and very interesting; it is a thousand times more believable than the neanderthal hypothesis, and I am so happy I read it.
It is also well-written and in correct English ... which is beyond wonderful in this day and age.
I will not give away the plot, but will be purrchasing more books in this series, and sharing them by offering them as gifts. It is vitally necessary for this sort of book to be read by Believers as well as non-Believers.
This book has enriched my Scripture reading I am far, far, far beyond grateful for that.
Review of advance copy received from Author
When I started reading the first chapter, I almost dismissed the book. Lightborn has a style that is not quite the same as any other book I have red. If it could be described in one word, I would call it immersive.
This book is written in the present tense. There is only one point of view, that of the main character. The reader learns about the antediluvian world exactly as he does. The reader learns of his emotions almost as much from his decisions as from the descriptions of his thoughts. I think this is the most immersive novel I have ever read.
The pacing of this novel is stupendous. The author takes his sweet time developing details of the world, and yet there is never a dull moment. The character development is entirely from the main character’s perspective. You know what he knows, no more, and no less (hopefully). The author is taking you on his journey.
The visual style of Lightborn caught me off guard in the first chapter. There were details that seemed to be missing. Then I realized that every detail was carefully crafted to help the reader understand what the main character feels and sees. It is not overly descriptive, but it is visually rich where it needs to be.
Lightborn helps the reader to imagine the world before the flood. It has a perfect balance between fantasy and realism, fact and imagination, adventure and contemplation. Whether you enjoy fantasy novels, or prefer historical fiction, or just want a good clean adventure story, Lightborn, Dawn of Darkness is a must read.
This book is written in the present tense. There is only one point of view, that of the main character. The reader learns about the antediluvian world exactly as he does. The reader learns of his emotions almost as much from his decisions as from the descriptions of his thoughts. I think this is the most immersive novel I have ever read.
The pacing of this novel is stupendous. The author takes his sweet time developing details of the world, and yet there is never a dull moment. The character development is entirely from the main character’s perspective. You know what he knows, no more, and no less (hopefully). The author is taking you on his journey.
The visual style of Lightborn caught me off guard in the first chapter. There were details that seemed to be missing. Then I realized that every detail was carefully crafted to help the reader understand what the main character feels and sees. It is not overly descriptive, but it is visually rich where it needs to be.
Lightborn helps the reader to imagine the world before the flood. It has a perfect balance between fantasy and realism, fact and imagination, adventure and contemplation. Whether you enjoy fantasy novels, or prefer historical fiction, or just want a good clean adventure story, Lightborn, Dawn of Darkness is a must read.
October 1, 2026
LIGHTBORN: Dawn of Darkness by Daniel Maritz and Hernu Maritz is a carefully crafted historical fantasy that takes the reader back in time to the fascinating and mysterious pre-Flood world.
This inaugural book in The Forgotten World Saga is richly detailed. The authors breathe life into a largely forgotten era, constructing a setting that feels both epic in scale and deeply authentic. Every character, landscape, and ancient custom is meticulously designed, allowing readers to fully immerse themselves in the environment. Combined with an engaging plot and strong pacing, the story keeps you hooked from the very first page as the looming darkness draws nearer and nearer.
While the vast cast of characters and interjection of unique vocabulary may feel overwhelming to some, the authors provide a helpful glossary and ensure the overarching narrative remains clear and compelling.
Overall, Lightborn: Dawn of Darkness is an inspiring and imaginative adventure that deserves its own feature film. It is a must-read for fans of historical fantasy and anyone looking for a unique, well-researched journey into the ancient past.
This inaugural book in The Forgotten World Saga is richly detailed. The authors breathe life into a largely forgotten era, constructing a setting that feels both epic in scale and deeply authentic. Every character, landscape, and ancient custom is meticulously designed, allowing readers to fully immerse themselves in the environment. Combined with an engaging plot and strong pacing, the story keeps you hooked from the very first page as the looming darkness draws nearer and nearer.
While the vast cast of characters and interjection of unique vocabulary may feel overwhelming to some, the authors provide a helpful glossary and ensure the overarching narrative remains clear and compelling.
Overall, Lightborn: Dawn of Darkness is an inspiring and imaginative adventure that deserves its own feature film. It is a must-read for fans of historical fantasy and anyone looking for a unique, well-researched journey into the ancient past.
October 6, 2026
This was an epic story, on the levels of Narnia and Lord of the Rings but its truth is more obvious than those title. The world is so detailed. No spoilers but the main character and his companion are great! Can't wait to see what is next in the saga!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Absolutely wonderful work you've done representing a pre flood world! Your history and research shows. You've also done wonders with a character many can relate to. There were times I thought, when is this guy ever going to catch a break? Then, reality reminded me that some never do in this world, yet we always have a choice. Stay in a bound mindset and let every hit keep us down, or rise above and live our best life, no matter the circumstances. "Spider" had me laughing out loud. I really need to know what happens next. I will be ordering additional copies, for my four boys (age 12-26) and I think it will make a great gift for any reader from pre teen up. I also think your book would make a worthy movie. I'm not much for TV, but I would watch this if it came out as such. I've never seen a great historically based pre flood movie, this would definitely be a treat. Great job!
October 7, 2026
Lightborn: Dawn of Darkness is a captivating story filled with adventure, mystery, and a powerful message about light overcoming darkness. I really enjoyed the characters, the spiritual themes, and the way the story kept me wanting to know what would happen next.
Daniel Maritz and Hernu Maritz have created a story with imagination, heart, and deeper meaning. If you enjoy stories about good versus evil, faith, courage, and redemption, I highly recommend giving Lightborn: Dawn of Darkness a read!
Daniel Maritz and Hernu Maritz have created a story with imagination, heart, and deeper meaning. If you enjoy stories about good versus evil, faith, courage, and redemption, I highly recommend giving Lightborn: Dawn of Darkness a read!
October 9, 2026
Got my copy of Lightborn! I really enjoyed how this is so much more than just an adventure story.
The world is incredibly rich, the characters have real depth, and I especially enjoyed the bond between Uldako and his trusted companion, Sarru. There's a sense of mystery and discovery that draws you into the story, but what stood out to me most was the deeper message woven throughout it all.
At its heart, this is a story about redemption, breaking free from the chains that hold us captive, and the search for Truth. I love how these themes are woven into the adventure, giving you something to reflect on without taking away from the excitement of the story.
I really enjoyed the journey, and I'm excited to see what comes next!
Hernu MaritzDaniel Maritz
The world is incredibly rich, the characters have real depth, and I especially enjoyed the bond between Uldako and his trusted companion, Sarru. There's a sense of mystery and discovery that draws you into the story, but what stood out to me most was the deeper message woven throughout it all.
At its heart, this is a story about redemption, breaking free from the chains that hold us captive, and the search for Truth. I love how these themes are woven into the adventure, giving you something to reflect on without taking away from the excitement of the story.
I really enjoyed the journey, and I'm excited to see what comes next!
Hernu MaritzDaniel Maritz
Displaying 1 - 7 of 7 reviews