The year is 2126. Earth is a husk of its former glory. Bled dry of resources by an ever-increasing parasite, Humankind. To live in this time is to be one payroll number amongst billions. Born to work until death. Freedom and individualism are resigned to the past within the Mega Corps. Huge cities, each owned by a corporation have replaced the countries of old. Their tall walls the only divide between the suffocation of a dense metropolis and the starvation of the barren wastelands.
Surviving this age means bending the knee to the combined over-class of rich and powerful, Unity — an organisation that had been formed in the era after first contact with an alien race. The only contact, never to be seen again. Mankind rallied under one banner…
But as is the nature of the powerful, they preyed on the nightmares of the weak. Now all hide within their high walls, fed on propaganda and fear of the aliens return. The parasite grows, draining its birth world in the hope of being ready for a foe only seen in nightmares and the books of old.
David J Pearson is a science fiction author from the West Midlands, England. He is husband to Laura and father to Rhiannon, Ellis & Annabelle. Once the kids are in bed he loves nothing more than working on expanding the Lucid Chronicles and chasing his dreams.
There really is very little to say about this book. David Pearson is a brilliant writer, and I don't use the word lightly. Full disclosure, I'm a book editor by profession, and I rarely come across such a complete talent.
His world building is superb, his characters are complete, fleshed out and utterly believable. His use of language is both efficient and colourful, managing to conjure vivid images and engender emotions seemingly without effort while never feeling contrived or forced.
I read the book twice trying to find fault, and the only fault I could come up with that he needs slapping for that ending, not because it was bad, but because it was so damned good I'm climbing the walls in frustration at not having the second book! Thankfully it's out soon so we won't have to wait long.
This is not just great sci-fi, the best sci-fi in fact, but it's excellent literature and if there's any justice in the world, David will go down in sci-fi history as one of the modern greats.
A great book with twist and turns. The author has you hooked from the beginning which in my opinion is not an easy thing to do. The story is fast paced and intriguing, so you keep turning the page to see what is going to happen next. You think you know where it is heading but the author still surprises you once you get there. As for the ending, OMG what a cliff-hanger. I am dying to find out what happens next. There is no sexual content, with some violence and profanity. I would highly recommend it.
I loved this story from start to finish. It doesn't slow down, the action doesn't stop, and it keeps you going to learn more. The twist at the end was well worth waiting for. I can't wait for the sequel.
I saw this advert from BookBub and I was intrigued. This story did not disappoint ! We follow Orson; a miner who suddenly gets his world literally turned upside down when while he’s minding his business. I tried to predict how this story would go and yet I was pleasantly surprised at the twist. This was an amazing story and I am so glad I got it. I cannot wait for Part 2!,
I received Orson (The Lucid Chronicles #1) from the author via @booktasters. This is the story of survival in a future dystopian world that has been ravaged by human greed and propensity for destruction rather than construction and the big corporate mentality of gaining maximum profit without caring for the consequences leading to a mostly polluted and uninhabitable world . This makes people wanting to leave this world to leave for other promised clean worlds at any cost. This is a story of how big corporates that are becoming powerful will control the world in future and decide who lives and who gets a better future and who is collateral damage and will got o any length to avoid paying the cost of their own mistakes and use those who they consider worthless. A story of greed betrayal and when everything becomes too much to bear then people start to rebel. A story that makes one pause to think and contemplate and also gives a warning that still it is not too late to be simply human. There are many twists that keeps the reader wondering as to what will happen next . Though the beginning is a little confusing but once the story takes off everything makes sense. the only thing sad is that since it is a part of a series, the story is left at a deadly cliffhanger. A must read foer all science fiction and dystopian book lovers
Well I managed to get an early copy of this book, it was a book I was very unsure about as its not my usual genre, but after a few days realised the book was finished and I wanted more, the characters are so well written you believe your on the journey with them and WOW what a journey, I don’t won’t to ruin it for all you people out there so I won’t go into details, but it is a must read if you want a gripping story and to go on a journey, can’t wait for the sequel in the future to see where it takes me.
I received a copy of The Lucid Chronicles: Orson by David J Pearson in exchange for an honest review.
The Lucid Chronicles: Orson is a brand new dystopian science fiction series by indie author David J. Pearson.
Taking place in a world that’s ravaged by pollution and a corrupt government-like organisation, Orson struck my interest immediately. Humankind has used up all of Earth’s resources. The solution? Send people to the moon to mine for materials and promise them a chance at a new life.
Chapter one introduces us to the protagonist, Orson. We’re shown what life on the moon is like – dreary, predictable, and not at all what he signed up for. The highlights of his day are seeing the attractive tram conductor, Estan, and having drinks in a dirty bar with his friend Hugo after work.
This chapter already brings the action. A mining explosion after which Orson blacks out, helplessly clinging to Hugo’s lifeless body.
David’s writing style and story gripped me from here, mid-chapter. There was no reliance on cliffhangers at the end of every chapter, like many writers do. Instead, David compelled his reader to turn the page with an interesting story concept.
Orson finds himself on a wild adventure against a corrupt government, Unity, when he unwittingly lands in with Lucid, the resistance organisation.
For a first time author, David J. Pearson has nailed it.
I’ll not hold the occasional misspelling or punctuation error against him at all. I’m reviewing solely on the content and writing style of Orson, and David definitely has a story to tell, and one he should be proud of.
I’m rarely sucked into a new series the way I was sucked into this one – and left wanting more at the end. That’s a huge thing for me!
There were also a few passages that were so beautifully written I re-read them a few times.
So, amazing story, David!! Thank you for letting me read and review, I’m truly honoured. Cannot wait for the next installment so I can learn more about Orson’s adventure!
A great read from a new author. Characters that are easy to connect with and a story that can go many ways in the future. Can't wait for the next book to see how the rollercoaster sci-fi epic turns out!
I particularly like all the character's personalities in Orson and look forward to following them in the chronicles! The end of Orson I did not see coming A brilliant read
Not my usual subject choice but I’m glad I gave it a chance.
It is nicely written and the characters have good depth. I found it both easy and fun to immerse myself in the mindset of the author and the world he created. I’m looking forward to future editions.
I picked up Orson for its intriguing cover. The bluish-white orb portended a story about space and aliens, and the words “relocation lottery” caused my imagination to run wild.
At 347 pages, Orson isn’t a quick read but not a word is wasted. Nowhere did the narrative drag—not even when the male protagonist is introspecting or debating with his inner voice, which happens often.
The plot benefits from Pearson’s ability to write movie-worthy action scenes and create realistically flawed characters who grow as the story progresses.
Orson, the male protagonist, starts off as a man-child with a penchant for complaining but evolves into a more responsible person when his future seems to hang in the balance. Similarly, Estan, the female protagonist, may project a tough exterior but struggles with self-doubt and questions of morality.
The characters are well-drawn, with detailed and credible backstories that help us understand where they’re coming from and what their motivations are. Everything is explained at the right juncture, and there are plenty of twists to keep you wondering just what will happen next. Pearson also gives minor characters an elaborate story—perhaps they will return in the next book in the series.
The dystopian setting allows for commentary on real-world issues like global warming, environmental pollution, and the inequitable distribution of wealth. He also weaves in philosophical quotes, mostly spoken/thought by Orson, without disrupting the pace of the narrative.
Sample this: “A person’s life can be broken down into three events. Other things will definitely occur throughout this time, but these three are universal to mankind. Coming into the world, making a mark on the world, and leaving it.”
Pearson’s world is run by advanced technology, which raises questions about privacy, confidentiality, and security when control is concentrated with a select few. The political scenario is frighteningly reminiscent about what is happening in the real world. Funnily enough, robots are considered “old tech” in Orson’s world.
I would say that Pearson’s strong suit is the way he creates an “atmosphere” with his descriptions of the setting. I could feel the oppressive heat and hopelessness of the mines, the gritty life on the wastelands, the clinical coldness of the hospital, and the insidious comfort and so-called safety of the high walls of the Mega Corporations.
I would recommend Orson to people who enjoy an action-packed science fiction story in a dystopian setting. Book 2 in the series has also been released so you can continue reading without a break. I know I will—I’ve already downloaded the next book via Kindle Unlimited!
Orson, The Lucid Chronicles, Vol. 1, by David J. Pearson This book was sent to me as an Advance Reader Copy against an honest and fair review. It was my first attempt at a novel from David J. Pearson. I have first to admit that I am an eager Sci-fi Reader and as always when starting with a new book one never knows what you are going to experience, although I always expect the best…. With this novel I have not been disappointed, even if the world and the society described are not of my liking, black, heavy oppressive, I have enjoyed reading it. I have been engrossed with the story from the beginning because there is a definite atmosphere to it, it is gripping, dark. From the beginning you are taken with Orson, one of the main characters working more or less as a slave in a world run by Unity a full power dictatorship. Orson had been goaded into joining the Lunar Mining Corporation (LMC) under a 3 years contract against the promise of emigrating to the Jupiter Eclipse, a world apart from the suffocating earth, at expiration of his contract. Unfortunately shortly after joining the LMC had gone into receivership if not bankruptcy and Orson was forced to keep on working only to ensure his survival, his only entertainment being meeting with Hugo one of his colleagues and his admiration of Estan Harvey, the Tram Master a beautiful woman filling his dreams. An accident in the mine, Orson waking up in the Hospital and everything started to take another direction….. The book is well written, the characters are alive and catching and it is easy to feel….. or even fall for them. I would definitely advise reading it because its interesting perspectives over the future, challenges which might become ours if not already current, challenges to mankind and its survival.
David Pearson is a fine storyteller, and this opening shot in his Lucid Chronicles promises well for the series – dystopian sci-fi with a difference. The storyline is engaging from the start with some excellent plot twists, and likeable characters who are convincingly done: I was sufficiently drawn in to go straight on to the second book, Estan. Unfortunately I found the writing rather unsubtle, which spoilt the book a little for me. Though the descriptions are good and the oppressive atmosphere of the mining colony and Earthside cities convincing, the opening is rather slow, and heavy with information dump. There is an irritating tendency throughout the book to repeat what the reader has already been told, or could reasonably be expected to have worked out for themselves. Above all, more attention needs to be paid to the old creative writing adage ‘show, don’t tell’. All this could be relatively easily addressed by aggressive editing, and I am sure that Pearson will work to hone his talents in this respect as the series unfolds. Despite these caveats, Orson is an enjoyable and thought provoking read with much to say about human nature, as all good writing should.
"Don't be life's label. Be your own." This line in the preface perfectly describes the book, a world of it's own. The book first introduces you to the life of Orson Blake. As you get comfortable with it, you are immediately plunged into a whirlwind of secrets, conspiracy theories and action. Orson is depicted as a younger brother and you can see that through his characterization. He never totally leaves the skin of his character but gradually develops through the story line. You take the journey with him. As you are introduced to more characters you find that the space in the story line is equally shared by all. None steal the limelight and yet they end up shining bright. The author has written the book beautifully with impeccable narrative and the story grips you tight from get go and succeeds in holding your attention and breath. Really interesting and good read. Hopefully more of it come soon.!
Una historia de ciencia ficción en un distópico pero plausible futuro. Ambientado alrededor de Orson, un minero que trabaja para la corporación Unity sacrificando varios años de su vida a cambio de un futuro mejor. Pero Orson no se espera todo lo que se le viene encima. El autor pone la vida de Orson patas arriba y le convierte en el principal elemento de una vorágine de eventos inesperados que no te harán soltar el libro ni para ir al baño. Un mundo inmenso y detallado, personajes trabajados, definidos y complejos, una historia que me recuerda porque la ciencia ficción es siempre un dulce cuando se ejecuta de una manera tan sublime, por no hablar de los constantes giros y cambios de punto de vista que el protagonista está obligado a afrontar. Una auténtica joya y placer de lectura que espero su autor continue más allá de su segunda parte que pienso empezar a leer ahora mismo.
From the opening line it grasped my attention, it is a fabulously written tale. Blake's life is one full of complex intrigue, & his relationships are equally layered. A character who is desperately trying to use his flaws to define himself, to use his anxieties to prevent his potential being reached, but the story pushed him into action. It is a story of despair, self-discovery, monotony, and adventure. I would highly recommend this book. The effort put into framing each new chapter, the first lines setting the tone perfectly, so much attention has been giving whilst writing this. The author has done a great job of keeping the reader interested at every point. I enjoyed it so much I read it again as soon as I'd finished it :)
The world has been damaged beyond repair after alien contact led to war and ultimately Unity’s dominance of the world. After a mine accident on the moon’s surface, Orson finds himself caught up in a web of intrigue and that just cascades from one near-death experience to another. Seeking the help of his sister, he becomes involved with Lucid, a group seeking to break the rule of Unity and improve the lives of the Earth dwellers. Intrigue, murder, action, and tension fill this novel by David J Pearson, and I highly recommend this for lovers of dystopian science fiction. Well-written, absorbing, and fast-paced, this reminds me a little of Total Recall, which can’t be a bad thing.
This book is fairly fast paced and action packed from the very first page! The setting is post apocalyptic Earth, after a first meeting with aliens and the entire world becomes a corporate conglomerate, eliminating all countries. The characters are relatable and David did a great job of paintings the landscape, from the moon to urban Earth to rural Earth and the Jupiter Eclipse space station. The storyline takes you through many twists and turns and keeps you on your toes. The ending is left on a cliffhanger and I’m excited to get my hands on the sequel! I received this book complimentary from the author and Booktasters to review.
I love a good dystopian book about living on the moon (and other planets). The circumstance for living on the moon are what interested me the most about this book and the need for people to know the truth about their living standards.
I enjoyed this book a lot. Each character was a large piece of the puzzle needed for this book to happen. I especially enjoyed the strong female characters in the book and how they were lead characters not just supporting characters. I also enjoyed Kaylen. I imagine him being played as Ryan Reynolds of this became a movie.
If you’re looking for a book full of rollercoasters on other planets in the future, this one is for you.
I loved this book, I don’t review things usually and first time using goodreads but I’ve been telling all my friends about it so thought I would say here as well. It’s a great sci fi with lots of depth to the characters and a great pace, it has me Turning the pages all the way to the end. Come on book two!
I rated this book a two because although the story was fairly good, it was overwhelmed by the sheer number of spelling errors , comma splices, and other grammatical errors. I find it difficult to successfully read and enjoy a book when I am continually having to mentally correct mistakes. Probably won't read this author again.
I am glued to this book!! Sci Fi is not my usual genre of choice, but now I am questioning why!! This book has captured me, and I literally can’t put it down. Such a great read!!! I will be lining up to purchase the second book!!!
I would not usually read this type of story but this book has got me hooked. It is easy to read, once you start on the journey it is hard to put the book down.i would recommend this book 100%
From the beginning I was captured. So many twists and intricate world building, it made me feel like I was watching a movie. The visuals and mind blowing moments. Totally enjoyed
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.