Osiris

by Jeffrey Thomas

Captain Derek Cross is a military commander, trying to come to grips with his past. A father killed in the line of duty, an estranged best friend, and a colonist he killed all weigh heavily on his mind. After a botched mission to Ganymede, during which nearly half his unit is killed, he’s given a choice – travel to another solar system to help establish a new colony, or accept a discharge from the military. Things go from bad to worse when, en-route to the site of the new colony, he’s awakened from cryogenic sleep by Dr. Elena Brown, the mission's medical officer, to find that the colony ship has been hijacked. All of Captain Cross’ skills are put to the test as he tries to protect the nearly four hundred sleeping colonists – colonists who have no idea they’re in danger. Protecting the most technologically advanced ship ever created, Osiris, and its passengers is one thing, but earning Elena’s trust is another thing entirely.

Genres: Science Fiction

389 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 28, 2019

About the author

Jeffrey Thomas spent ten years as a Research Scientist before moving into the IT field. He's served a number of companies as an IT Systems Engineer. He's written numerous technical articles across both careers, but what he really enjoys is reading and writing fiction - mostly Science Fiction and Fantasy. He dabbles in many other genres as well, and usually throws in a healthy dose of humor into his writing.

He's on the web (here), and on YouTube as well, where he will be posting videos containing fiction writing content, book reviews, and a lot of information geared toward self-publishing. His Amazon Author page is here: https://www.amazon.com/-/e/B07PPSL844

In his other persona, Kojak Durham, he has a blog here, and makes videos on YouTube, where he discusses his other loves, such as all things science and technolology. He enjoys doing product review videos and lifestyle videos for 'regular people'. As a self-described 'regular guy', he doesn't spend every waking moment doing one thing like so many other online personalities do. He talks about all sorts of topics that relate to just about anyone. He loves music - listening and playing (guitar, pennywhistle, piano, you name it), movies, cooking, gardening, and computers - after all, he is a full-time computer engineer. He alsos like to make things - everything from a custom bed frame with built-in LED reading lights, to a folding garage workbench, to a portable speaker system.

Reviews

[Kat · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great military sci-fi adventure. We jump straight into the action, where Commander Derek Cross is leading a military operation in the field with his special hand-picked volunteer unit. The camaraderie is clear, and author Thomas has a clear knack for writing dialogue, as well as outstanding descriptions of weapons and battle scenes while still keeping the pace flowing. This had just the right amount of information for a well-developed world while keeping us in the scene. Unfortunately for Derek, when the mission goes terribly wrong, he’s given the choice to lead a mission to a new solar system to establish a new Colony (again good world building with the effects of Earth’s deterioration and widespread sickness) or face military discharge.

But of course, as one would expect in any good tale, things go horribly wrong. We meet quite a few interesting characters. I particularly liked the relationship of Derek with JT. The action was intense and well-plotted as we moved into the final act, and I look forward to seeing where things go from here!

Please excuse typos/name misspellings. Entered on screen reader.

[Literary Portals · Rating 3 out of 5]

What Made Me Read It I was sent a copy of the novel in exchange for an honest review. The blurb caught my interest - a colony ship on its way to another star system and a main character with some heavy emotional baggage.

The Plot In the year 2136 planet Earth is on the verge of environmental collapse. Polluted air and water, food scarcity and epidemic infections are taking a toll on the population. Humanity starts looking to the stars for a way out and discovers a viable planet in the Alpha Centauri system. A crewed ship would normally take 12 years to reach the system but with the invention of the flux drive that journey is shorten to a mere 6 months of transit and Project Osiris is set in motion. Its mission: to take 400 colonists and start a new life on planet Avalon.

Captain Derek Cross was in command of the 609th Counterinsurgency Force of the United States Marine Corps, sent to the Jupiter moon of Ganymede to settle a mining colony revolt. But after the mission went terribly wrong with the loss of 1/3 of his unit, Captain Cross is given a choice - to be discharged from the Marine Corps or accept reassignment to Project Osiris and lead a military contingency to planet Avalon and safeguard the colonists. Haunted by his recent failure, Captain Cross sees Project Osiris as a way to start anew and reconnect with his estranged best friend JT.

Doctor Elena Brown is a senior medical officer and flight physician assigned to the converted cargo ship Osiris. After detecting a flaw in the cryogenic sleep system that would shut down most chambers in lander D during the long interstellar voyage, effectively killing the sleeping occupants, and unable to find a cause for the malfunction, Dr. Brown volunteers to stay awake during the entire trip to reboot the faulty system. But on the 5th month of the journey Dr. Brown realizes she's not the only one awake. She deeply distrusts military personnel on principle for their training and purpose, but with a team of hostiles on the loose intent on taking over Project Osiris and threatening the lives of the colonists, Dr. Brown has no choice but to wake Captain Cross and trust he will keep them all alive.

The Good "Osiris" is an action-packed science fiction novel with a mystery-thriller element, set in a future where Earth is facing ecological disaster with epidemics and famine running rampant and humanity has established mining colonies throughout the solar system to provide the planet with useful resources. The story takes place in the year 2136 when, after discovering a viable planet in the nearby Alpha Centauri system, several governments fund Project Osiris to give humanity a chance for a new start. With the development of a new propulsion system that allows faster than light speed travel by Samson Industries, an old cargo ship is converted into the first high-speed colonization spacecraft with the purpose of sending 400 colonists to the planet Avalon. The plot follows the journey of the 2 main characters, Captain Derek Cross (commander of the military security contingent) and Doctor Elena Brown (the colony's senior medical officer) as they reluctantly join forces to stop an hostile force from taking control of the ship Osiris and the colonization mission.

The worldbuilding and the futuristic technologies are well imagined and the author provides enough contextual information to get a good sense of this future reality. I specially enjoyed the self-forming tableware which changes shape at the touch of a button, the VTOLs (Vertical Take-Off and Landing vehicles) that function as both space shuttles and cars depending on whether you're traveling in space or on a road (called skyways) on Earth, and the propulsion system (flux drives) that allows a spacecraft to move faster than light by crossing between different universes. Also well-thought-of were the (realistic) impact of long term social isolation on a person and the (imaginary) side effects of the flux drives on the environment and human body. The first half of the book focus on introducing the characters, their personal history and reasons to join Project Osiris, while the pace picks up in the second half with thrilling action sequences.

The characters are 3-dimentional, believable and with good development throughout the story: Captain (newly promoted to Major) Derek Cross facing his guilt over the failed mission to Ganymede and the loss of his unit, his need to follow in his father's footsteps, his attempts at reconnecting with his estranged guardian and best friend JT, his conflict between his military duties and personal beliefs in more diplomatic and less violent solutions; Doctor Elena Brown determined to save lives even if it means staying awake and in social isolation for 6 months, her conflict between her deep rejection of military people and all they stand for but having to accept and trust Captain Derek to save the sleeping colonists; JT, and ex-marine field mechanic, still trying to look after his friend Derek and play the older brother figure even after their falling out; and Frederick Samson, a terrific antagonist, so smooth and collected on the surface but secretly following a devious plan years in the making - I really enjoyed following this character throughout the whole plot, the way the author had the character set each step of his plan was pure genius!

The Not So Good Despite the rich wordbuilding and imaginative background details, the author didn't quite nail the delivery of all that extra data. Even if at times it fits naturally within the story, most of it feels forced and out of place, slowing down the pace and getting in the way of the narrative. There is also a tendency for repetition, pieces of the same information being delivered over and over again. Its the main reason it lost a star in the final rating.

Read the full review on: https://literaryportals.blogspot.com/...

Final Rating 3 of 5 stars. "Osiris" is an action-packed science fiction thriller set in a future where humanity begins exploring and colonizing planets outside our solar system. Recommended for those who enjoy sci-fi stories with military, space exploration and colonization elements.

[Lori · Rating 3 out of 5]

Disclaimer: I received a free copy from the author in exchange for my review, but in no way affects my opinion.

I haven't heard to much about this book, but honestly I was really surprised to see how good it was. The space adventure and the whole Dystopian world was really well done, and I was quite impressed. 

The Characters: 
Derek: Derek was quite a realistic character. I thoroughly enjoyed learning a lot about him and his relationship with his mentor, JT. His guilt over a failed mission was what made me feel for him, and I began to understand what he was experiencing throughout the book. 

His relationship with JT. I could tell that Derek is really close to him after the accident, and the fact that JT raised him after his father died. They had a good bond and I deeply appreciated it. 

JT: I really liked his character. He seems to be the wildcard, but his relationship Derek was really awesome. I wouldn't have minded knowing a little more about him, and a little more of his history. Anyways, he felt really fleshed out and I totally loved him in the book. 

Elena: I felt like I didn't really know her as much as I would have liked. Her personality was quite cool. It was present, but honestly, I didn't know too much of her history. She seems to be a good character, but I kinda wanted to know a little more of her home-life, what she likes. I liked the reason why she volunteered to stay awake, and wanting to sleep after a few months. I needed to learn a little bit about her, but other than that she was a cool character. 

The Plot: 
The plot was really cool and well-thought out. Since it's the year 2136, Earth is on a very of collapse because of it's destruction (totally realistic especially currently) which is why they send a small team which included JT, Derek and Elena to go another Solar System called Alpha Centauri. 

I loved the way it was set up in why Derek was feeling guilty during the book after an accident that nearly killed him and others. It was really good and that explored his character really well which is the main reason in why Derek decided to do Project Osiris, in hoping to redeem himself. 

World-Building:
The world-building was really well-written. Everything felt quite realistic especially with the use of the technology. It's kinda hard to believe that this could actually happen and the use of technology. 

I loved learning about the way technology enriched the characters lives and the planet. It was absolutely beautiful, and didn't seem to be info-dumpy at least. There was a lot of world-building, but it was spread out in the entire book making it seem realistic while not taking anything away from the plot. 

Unfortunately, there were a few spots. There was some info revealed in the beginning, but it kinda seemed really forced and kinda just brought me out of the story-line. It was a little boring in read about, and it slowed down the pacing quite a few times throughout the novel. 

Writing: 
The writing was really gorgeous. I liked it and it brought the whole story alive. I felt like I was there, but I found quite a few issues with it. There was quite a bit of repetition in the book, mostly in the beginning, but scattered a few times in the book. Often repeating information that was repeated a few pages ago. 

There was also a lot of overusing simple words like 'he', or using the name. It was mostly in the beginning of the book. There were a few paragraphs that only used 'he' which I was kinda really annoyed and possibly said 'Just use his name' out-loud. Then there were paragraphs just using Derek, and not his pronoun. 

Like I said, it only happened in the beginning. In the middle/end, it was just fine, and didn't seem to overuse the few words a few times in the book. 

There was also a spot in the middle of the book where Derek asked for some clothes from Elena. When I read the next line, I was very confused because there was no description of what Elena was holding up, and I didn't quite get Derek's reaction, but other than that it was quite good.

[Entrada Book Review · Rating 4 out of 5]

Osiris by Jeffrey Thomas is not your usual science fiction novel. It might be set in outer space, but there is still recognizable technology. Airplanes are common on many of the inhabited moons and planets, along with other types of aircraft. Thomas has created a fantasy world that readers can identify with.

This is the first book in the Derek Cross series. Cross is the military commander aboard the Osiris spaceship, and he is a man with a complicated past. His character is well developed and gives readers insight into his thoughts and actions throughout the storyline. Cross and the other characters, both minor and major, are all believable and easy for readers to build a connection with.

Thomas uses vivid descriptions throughout the book. It is easy for readers to envision themselves on The Osiris or an outpost mining colony. The writing is sprinkled with humor from the characters, which only adds to their relatability.

One thing that makes this more than your average science fiction novel is its historical accuracy. Throughout the book, readers will find excerpts detailing the historical significance of certain ships and other names. For example, The USS Valley Forge. In the book, there is a plaque commemorating George Washington and his soldiers, with a brief history of the winter they spent at Valley Forge. The plaque goes on to denote all the vessels that have borne the name. Historical references in the book shouldn't be surprising. Thomas is an avid history buff. He is also a proud member of the Potawatomi Nation and embraces the history of the Native American tribe.

Jeffrey Thomas's Osiris is not only a science fiction novel, but it is also one filled with plenty of action and adventure. There are traitors on board the ship, and others along the way. Readers will find themselves laughing at some of the ways Derek Cross manages to get the upper hand and cringing when one of the characters doesn't survive.

Readers will be drawn into the world Thomas has created in this book. His writing style easily flows and the characters are believable. He doesn't create "perfect" characters, they all have their flaws. This is one of the things that makes this novel so enjoyable to read. The details for every scene in the book are vividly described. The storyline is also well developed without any lags in the plotline.

When you first pick up Osiris, you might believe that you are only getting ready to read another science fiction novel, but you will be pleasantly surprised. It is easy to get lost in the future that Jeffrey Thomas has created. Readers might find that it is hard to put the book down, once they've finished the first chapter.

As the first book in the upcoming series, Osiris will leave readers wanting more. Hopefully, the second installment in the Derek Cross series will be out soon, and not leave readers wanting more for too long. A breakout novel that will leave you wanting more.

[Gina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Homegrown Muse by Sally Bennett Boyington is an engaging and fast-paced contemporary romance that skillfully blends suspense, personal growth, and sizzling chemistry. From the moment Lyssa Smith inadvertently exposes a dangerous scheme, the story captivates readers with high stakes, moral dilemmas, and the challenge of navigating a world where doing the right thing comes at a personal cost.

Lyssa is a wonderfully free-spirited and resilient heroine, whose courage and integrity drive the narrative forward. As her reputation and career hang in the balance, her alliance with Dane Callicott adds both tension and warmth. Dane, grappling with family expectations and past setbacks, is a complex and relatable hero. Together, their interactions are electric, filled with sparks of attraction, mutual respect, and a sense of adventure that keeps readers hooked.

Boyington’s skillful storytelling shines in the way she balances personal stakes with broader suspense, creating a story that is as emotionally resonant as it is thrilling. The Phoenix-area setting is vivid and atmospheric, grounding the drama in a real and dynamic environment.

Homegrown Muse is a satisfying blend of romance, intrigue, and personal empowerment. With engaging characters, clever plot twists, and heartfelt moments, it’s a captivating read for anyone who enjoys contemporary romance with a touch of suspense and the triumph of courage over adversity.