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The Cluster Saga #1
The Void Within
The 25th century. Humanity has discovered a new form of energy, the Source, derived from the very basis of life itself. Using this power to travel instantaneously through space, humans have spread through their corner of the galaxy and coalesced into two groups: the Coalition and the Inner Cluster. They are held in an uneasy economic and cultural relationship by their reliance on each other, the Coalition with the technology of the Source and the Inner Cluster with the materials to make it a usable form of energy. When rumors of conquest, political undergrounds, and alien contact threaten this balance of powers, it falls to three individuals to find the truth of the conspiracies swirling through their governments and to stave off a disastrous war. What they find in the process will change the course of humanity forever.
- GenresScience FictionFiction
261 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 14, 2019
187 people are currently reading
535 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
April 5, 2019
A CRT. SYFY. Novel (TCSB - 1)/The Human Race Settled the Galaxy Only to Find There Was A Larger Enemy
CRT. has. penned the first novel of the Cluster Saga. The Inside of the Cluster and the Outside of the Cluster long ago decided that each must survive, but before that conclusion was reached an inter-galaxy war began. Unbeknownst to the humans in conflict was that they were being led by an outside source to cripple both sides. This is an excellent read for the genre......DEHS
CRT. has. penned the first novel of the Cluster Saga. The Inside of the Cluster and the Outside of the Cluster long ago decided that each must survive, but before that conclusion was reached an inter-galaxy war began. Unbeknownst to the humans in conflict was that they were being led by an outside source to cripple both sides. This is an excellent read for the genre......DEHS
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April 10, 2019As a first delve into the sci-fi realm, I am more than impressed with Carlos Tkacz work. I struggled putting the book down to be honest. The world he creates, although a fictional, is captivating, filled with allusions of what seems to be a possibility with our current society. Maybe that is whats so captivating: the urge to critically think about our world, and the possibilities of our future. I am more than enthusiastic to read to the next book in the series!
March 17, 2019
“The Void Within” by author Carlos R. Tkacz, is an excellent work of science fiction that will surprise the reader with its freshness and new ideas. I have read much ‘space’ fiction in the past, and wondered at what could be presented here that would be new and exciting. I had become bored with space ‘war’ works and even very cerebral ideas in this genre, but “The Void Within” really is different.
I appreciated the note from the author that began the book. It was very forthright and frank, to say the least. I am also a fiction writer and know the feeling of having to ‘get the work out, get it done’ as was expressed in this opening. The fact that Mr. Tkacz gave several methods of gaining personal contact with him was refreshing and made me feel that he as the author actually cared about the opinions of his readers.
The dialog was interesting and believable. I enjoyed it and also the seriousness of the writing. It was ‘real’ without being technically laborious. The idea of ‘instantly’ traveling vast distances in space showed great creativity and presented a new way to cope with the distances that bog down most space sci-fi works.
I found the novel to be beautifully written. I enjoyed the idea of where mankind was before ‘pre-skip’, how we as space-traveling humans meandered around the closer reaches of the universe and slowly made our way down our arm of the spiral of the Milky Way.
This is a book that I would recommend to anyone who enjoys space sci-fi, but who also craves a fresh look at space conflicts and ways to solve the problems with travel in the vastness of the universe.
I appreciated the note from the author that began the book. It was very forthright and frank, to say the least. I am also a fiction writer and know the feeling of having to ‘get the work out, get it done’ as was expressed in this opening. The fact that Mr. Tkacz gave several methods of gaining personal contact with him was refreshing and made me feel that he as the author actually cared about the opinions of his readers.
The dialog was interesting and believable. I enjoyed it and also the seriousness of the writing. It was ‘real’ without being technically laborious. The idea of ‘instantly’ traveling vast distances in space showed great creativity and presented a new way to cope with the distances that bog down most space sci-fi works.
I found the novel to be beautifully written. I enjoyed the idea of where mankind was before ‘pre-skip’, how we as space-traveling humans meandered around the closer reaches of the universe and slowly made our way down our arm of the spiral of the Milky Way.
This is a book that I would recommend to anyone who enjoys space sci-fi, but who also craves a fresh look at space conflicts and ways to solve the problems with travel in the vastness of the universe.
July 15, 2020
Undecided
On one hand this has all the hallmarks of a good sci-fi piece - faster-than-light travel, spaceships, advanced technology, action, plenty of intrigue and drama. I enjoyed the mysticism and the manner in which FTL is portrayed, the antagonists are strongly centred with quite different but also similar traits. The world building is done well with cultural differences shown, there's also some great moral and philosophical questions posed. However, on the other hand it also seems a tad disconnected, with a magical element that some may not enjoy. There's additional a deep focus on a certain religion, albeit an amended form becoming of the far future , another religion is delved into a bit and the other large religion is merely mentioned a little and shown to be bigot filled. I'm unsure if the author deliberately did meant for this to come across that way, perhaps pushing a religious and/or political agenda (especially the subliminal messages of capitalism and socialism/communism). It is his story and thus written as he pleases, though I feel it will push people away. 50/50 if I pick up the next book.
On one hand this has all the hallmarks of a good sci-fi piece - faster-than-light travel, spaceships, advanced technology, action, plenty of intrigue and drama. I enjoyed the mysticism and the manner in which FTL is portrayed, the antagonists are strongly centred with quite different but also similar traits. The world building is done well with cultural differences shown, there's also some great moral and philosophical questions posed. However, on the other hand it also seems a tad disconnected, with a magical element that some may not enjoy. There's additional a deep focus on a certain religion, albeit an amended form becoming of the far future , another religion is delved into a bit and the other large religion is merely mentioned a little and shown to be bigot filled. I'm unsure if the author deliberately did meant for this to come across that way, perhaps pushing a religious and/or political agenda (especially the subliminal messages of capitalism and socialism/communism). It is his story and thus written as he pleases, though I feel it will push people away. 50/50 if I pick up the next book.
June 12, 2021
4 stars. An extremely well-written if not also equally extremely complex book that covers not only the history behind man's conquest of space but the theological, sociological and philosophical aspects as well. As you can imagine, this book is more akin to some of Asimov's weightier tomes than it is to authors we know of in today's best-selling lists including Crouch, Bruno, Scalzi and more. This is intellectualism at its purest level... or as pure as one can get trying to surmise how (or if) humanity survives the coming several hundred years.
I point this out not as a criticsm but I think everyone who picks up a copy of this book - and I thank the author for the free distribution of same along with the following two chapters via discoverscifi.com - should know what they are in for. I was not quite as prepared as I should of been and it was a chore to make my way through really the first half of the book, where almost no action occurs and we are left to chase mysteries and complex political machinations along with primarily 3 major players. The writing is elegant, yes, but my advice would be to stay sober and maybe even have some aspirin handy. I'm not embarrassed to say there were times things became so introspectively complex that I was flailing a bit.
This is deep, deep stuff that takes me back some of the required reading of my college years more than any other book I might find as a comparative. Sure, I could see an argument for some "Dune"-like similiarities - though Herbert's signature work was purely action even when you thought it wasn't - or even something as arcane as "Logan's Run" once the big reveal smacks us in the face! Needless to say, this is about as complex a plot as you'll find in a space opera. The characterizations carry all of this quite ably but a lot of that also has to do with their own LENGTHY self-reflections in terms of their faith, abilities, or lack of any of those. The science is complex as well, yes, but not overwhelmingly so. But goodness, when some of those plot holes are slammed shut. Oh my.
So I would say enjoy but do come prepared for the ride. Now to decide if I need a few days off before trying my luck with the 2nd chapter!
I point this out not as a criticsm but I think everyone who picks up a copy of this book - and I thank the author for the free distribution of same along with the following two chapters via discoverscifi.com - should know what they are in for. I was not quite as prepared as I should of been and it was a chore to make my way through really the first half of the book, where almost no action occurs and we are left to chase mysteries and complex political machinations along with primarily 3 major players. The writing is elegant, yes, but my advice would be to stay sober and maybe even have some aspirin handy. I'm not embarrassed to say there were times things became so introspectively complex that I was flailing a bit.
This is deep, deep stuff that takes me back some of the required reading of my college years more than any other book I might find as a comparative. Sure, I could see an argument for some "Dune"-like similiarities - though Herbert's signature work was purely action even when you thought it wasn't - or even something as arcane as "Logan's Run" once the big reveal smacks us in the face! Needless to say, this is about as complex a plot as you'll find in a space opera. The characterizations carry all of this quite ably but a lot of that also has to do with their own LENGTHY self-reflections in terms of their faith, abilities, or lack of any of those. The science is complex as well, yes, but not overwhelmingly so. But goodness, when some of those plot holes are slammed shut. Oh my.
So I would say enjoy but do come prepared for the ride. Now to decide if I need a few days off before trying my luck with the 2nd chapter!
May 16, 2020
I read this book in anticipation of my GoodReads giveaway win of Book #2. I wanted to give book #2 a proper evaluation and hence felt it needed a proper start.
A lot of world building. Lots of introduction of religious themes and low on action. I was hoping for a faster and more engaging storyline. It never helps when I am preoccupied with other household projects and don't have a lot of free time to devote to my reading.
I don't know how I will feel about reading the next book in this series. Did this book bore me? Well, I will press on anyway.
Have a GoodReads.
A lot of world building. Lots of introduction of religious themes and low on action. I was hoping for a faster and more engaging storyline. It never helps when I am preoccupied with other household projects and don't have a lot of free time to devote to my reading.
I don't know how I will feel about reading the next book in this series. Did this book bore me? Well, I will press on anyway.
Have a GoodReads.
May 9, 2021
I liked it. Overall it was a good book. The author did a great job of communicating the severity of the present crisis on a galaxy-wide scale, and the main characters were real and believable. On the downside it moved a little slow, and there were a few pretty unrealistic things (and yes, I realize this is sci-fi), like the admiral of half the known universe just going off by himself in a little ship on a multi-day jaunt to secretly meet some other people on an abandoned asteroid. I am interested in reading the next one but not super eager to do so.
July 28, 2021
This classical SF story is part one of the Cluster Saga and it captured my attention from the first page. This book has everything one SF story needs: advanced human race, war between two sides of human communities (Coalition and Iner Cluster) and big secret.
A bit too slow occasionally for my taste with too much detail in some instances. On the other hand it has unexpected plot and ethical dilemma at the end.
This is my assessments of this book The Void Within by Carlos R. Tkacz according to my 7 criteria:
1. Too long and Strenuous action - exciting and short - 4 stars
2. Boring - fun - 4 stars
3. Not difficult to read (as for non English native speaker] - 5 stars.
4. Predictable (common) - good story (unusual) - 5 stars
5. Shalow story - has a deeper meaning - 5 stars.
6. The story is mass and Unfinished - The story is clear, understandable and well rounded - 5 stars
7. Dry and uninspired style of writing - Smooth style with humorous and fun characters - 4 stars
Total 4.57 stars
A bit too slow occasionally for my taste with too much detail in some instances. On the other hand it has unexpected plot and ethical dilemma at the end.
This is my assessments of this book The Void Within by Carlos R. Tkacz according to my 7 criteria:
1. Too long and Strenuous action - exciting and short - 4 stars
2. Boring - fun - 4 stars
3. Not difficult to read (as for non English native speaker] - 5 stars.
4. Predictable (common) - good story (unusual) - 5 stars
5. Shalow story - has a deeper meaning - 5 stars.
6. The story is mass and Unfinished - The story is clear, understandable and well rounded - 5 stars
7. Dry and uninspired style of writing - Smooth style with humorous and fun characters - 4 stars
Total 4.57 stars
February 7, 2020
I am always a bit skeptical of new sci-fi books. This book, however, shattered my skepticism in record time. To put it plainly, this is one of the best sci-fi books I have read. The author links the issues of our society with seemingly plausible outcomes, social commentary melded to fantasy. I whole heartedly recommend this book to any reader interested in sci-fi, space, and humanity. I can only wait in excited anticipation for the sequel.
June 29, 2021
I received a free copy of this book from Voracious Readers.
I really enjoyed this book - the 3 main characters were well developed, there was lots of historical context, and good world building. The story itself was well-paced and interesting. The only part that I didn't care for was the pages and pages of philosophy on the human condition and humanity's greed/evil. If some of that had been slimmed down or removed it might be 5 stars from me.
I really enjoyed this book - the 3 main characters were well developed, there was lots of historical context, and good world building. The story itself was well-paced and interesting. The only part that I didn't care for was the pages and pages of philosophy on the human condition and humanity's greed/evil. If some of that had been slimmed down or removed it might be 5 stars from me.
May 29, 2019
Well written, but...
There was a lot of religious and philosophical material attached to the story. It was all well written but much of it got in the way of the action. I found myself either ignoring a lot of it or speed reading through it. The story gave an honest view of the worst aspects of humanity. I subscribe to a more optimistic View of the possibilities for our race.
There was a lot of religious and philosophical material attached to the story. It was all well written but much of it got in the way of the action. I found myself either ignoring a lot of it or speed reading through it. The story gave an honest view of the worst aspects of humanity. I subscribe to a more optimistic View of the possibilities for our race.
January 20, 2021
A bit of everything
There's Sci-Fi, a look at humanity, action, a little romance, and more. Carlos created a pretty fun and interesting world and gives the reader a lot to think about. I definitely wasn't expecting the villain (on more than one level, really) - great twist. Thanks, Carlos!
There's Sci-Fi, a look at humanity, action, a little romance, and more. Carlos created a pretty fun and interesting world and gives the reader a lot to think about. I definitely wasn't expecting the villain (on more than one level, really) - great twist. Thanks, Carlos!
October 7, 2022
Excellent well crafted space opera
Just finished book 3 of The Cluster Saga I can thoroughly recommend them. Can’t wait for the final installment. Great story with some very deep issues and insight carefully hidden behind the facade of sci-fi. Loved the quotes at the beginning of each chapter. So good that some of them could be real. Got to encourage a new author.
Just finished book 3 of The Cluster Saga I can thoroughly recommend them. Can’t wait for the final installment. Great story with some very deep issues and insight carefully hidden behind the facade of sci-fi. Loved the quotes at the beginning of each chapter. So good that some of them could be real. Got to encourage a new author.
May 12, 2019
Extremely fun and very interesting
I found the premise of the book and the twists to keep my attention. This is epic science fiction at its best. The characters are well drawn and the universe building excellent. If you like hard sci-fi with a heart this is the book for you.
I found the premise of the book and the twists to keep my attention. This is epic science fiction at its best. The characters are well drawn and the universe building excellent. If you like hard sci-fi with a heart this is the book for you.
October 29, 2019
Although an interesting premise, there is far too much time spent on thinly veiled current social and political commentary rather, than the actual story. I ended up not caring for any of them nor the outcomes.
April 11, 2019
A must read for sci-fi fans, a sincere tribute to old science fiction. The writing and plot makes for a quick and delightful read, looking forward to the sequel.
May 5, 2019
In depth character development and very imaginative - well written. Very much enjoyed reading this story. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to read and review this story. Appreciate it.
June 3, 2019
Might have been ok, but i was not getting into it.
August 23, 2019
Loved it
Read
July 24, 2020An interesting read!
The Void Within is a good story and full of action most SyFy geeks will enjoy! I plan to get all of the books in the series!
The Void Within is a good story and full of action most SyFy geeks will enjoy! I plan to get all of the books in the series!
Read
June 9, 2021Loved this book, keeps you on your toes with a nice storyline while educating you about history, philosophy, religion. Very recommended
October 26, 2024
I really liked the book. Good world building. The author cleverly eliminated a lot of the “required” elements in future worlds so the story has an efficiency that is refreshing.
April 16, 2021
The book is very good, especially from my point of view as a first time reader of Carlos. I enjoyed it overall, and the pace and tone is really nice throughout the book. Hence the stars rating.
Now I do have one big issue with it, actually a few but they're all related to the same thing. So this hyper intelligent AI or whatever, managed to keep an entire planet of... fuel, hidden ... but it had a... soul? Like seriously? And what's the deal with the age? At one point they're described as old, then mixed, then only up to a certain age. I mean by that logic only researchers under 25 qualify
, not mindless drones.
I will venture to read the next in the series, but the ending of the first book is either rushed or... maybe the author got bored?
Now I do have one big issue with it, actually a few but they're all related to the same thing. So this hyper intelligent AI or whatever, managed to keep an entire planet of... fuel, hidden ... but it had a... soul? Like seriously? And what's the deal with the age? At one point they're described as old, then mixed, then only up to a certain age. I mean by that logic only researchers under 25 qualify
, not mindless drones.
I will venture to read the next in the series, but the ending of the first book is either rushed or... maybe the author got bored?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 23, 2019
This book was a refreshing read considering the sub par sci-fi that I have come across in the past 10 years. This book is a tale that is both enticing and adventurous taking us in a journey that reminds us of where our current political status could end up taking us. It takes us to a vast new worlds through our universe while mirroring our known history as it beautifully ties our present/past struggles with that of the 25th century. Highly recommend it!
March 28, 2019
The beginning of an epic space drama that cleverly entwines a journey into the unknown a critique of current society’s current fear of the unknown.
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews