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Foundra
A science prodigy named Neven meets the immortal founder of a galactic empire but things go sideways when Neven's drafted into military service after the murder of the immortal's chief engineer. Zun, the former engineer's widow and current science officer on the immortals' starship the Foundra Ascension, scorns the quick replacement of her husband and takes her ire out on Neven as he struggles to find his place on the Ascension. With a new threat emerging from another plane of existence, Neven and Zun find themselves thrust into the middle of a war the likes of which the galaxy hasn't seen in five hundred millennia.
2022 Global Book Award Silver Medal for Science Fiction
2021 TopShelf Book Award for Fantasy
15th Annual National Indie Excellence Award Finalist
2021 Reader's Favorite Finalist for Best Sci-Fi Romance Novel
2022 Global Book Award Silver Medal for Science Fiction
2021 TopShelf Book Award for Fantasy
15th Annual National Indie Excellence Award Finalist
2021 Reader's Favorite Finalist for Best Sci-Fi Romance Novel
561 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 30, 2019
33 people are currently reading
104 people want to read
About the author
Emmanuel M. Arriaga
5 books97 followersEmmanuel Arriaga is a sci-fi author trapped in the body of a Product Manager. With a 14+ year background in engineering, cybersecurity, and infrastructure, Emmanuel received education from Pennsylvania State University and Stanford Graduate School of Business. He’s held roles building products for people in emerging markets, creating privacy and security safeguards for users on the Android platform, improving core experiences for creators on YouTube, and is currently at Google Play, ensuring the integrity of developers within the Play Ecosystem in Silicon Valley. When the author occasionally breaks free, he publishes award-winning novels such as Foundra and Elevator Quest.
He is best known for the Foundra Series, a sci-fi space opera and National Indie Excellence Award (NIEA) Finalist. His rich worlds introduce expansive worldbuilding with innovative technologies and concepts. He is a bronze winner of the Readers' Favorite Award for Best Young Adult Action Novel and a TopShelf Book Award winner.
He is best known for the Foundra Series, a sci-fi space opera and National Indie Excellence Award (NIEA) Finalist. His rich worlds introduce expansive worldbuilding with innovative technologies and concepts. He is a bronze winner of the Readers' Favorite Award for Best Young Adult Action Novel and a TopShelf Book Award winner.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
February 8, 2022
FOUNDRA
By: Emmanuel M. Arriaga
◇◇◇
ABOUT THE BOOK
The Huzien Empire has existed for 80 millennia and a powerful invisible force known as the enesmic permeates every aspect of the Twin Galaxy.
Neven is an engineer working for the pinnacle of scientific achievement known as the MinSci on the Huzien homeworld of Thae. His genius draws the attention of one of the immortal Founders and he finds himself drafted into the military as part of an elite group of special forces known as the Founder’s Elites. Not given much time to adjust, his team is called to investigate stories of otherworldly creatures attacking fringe colony worlds.
Soahc is the most powerful wielder of the enesmic in the Twin Galaxy, he’s also incredibly cocky. That is until he senses a powerful shifting in the enesmic that he can’t explain. Terrified that something is horribly wrong, Soahc leaves his comfortable planet and hitches a ride with Neven and the Founder’s Elites as they investigate the carnage on the fringes of the empire.
Neven, Soahc and their allies discover something ancient from another plane of existence. Something that exposes the fragility of their galactic empire as they fight to survive annihilation from enesmic beings.
◇◇◇
REVIEW
☆☆☆☆
I received a complimentary copy. I voluntarily reviewed this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
~~~
"Nature and technology, the constant balance."
Welcome to a whole new world. In this world, The Huzien Empire, as well as in our own world, a balance of natural energy and technological progress may or may not be possible. Regardless, there are sure to be consequences for every action against the natural order of life.
M. Arriaga's FOUNDRA is a complex space opera of epic proportions staged in a meticulously crafted world of the author's making. This book is a behemoth slice of saga, magic, adventure and suspense- definitely not a quick read. To fully engage with this story, be prepared to invest some time and effort in familiarizing yourself with new terminology, names, places and historical context. For your convenience, Arriaga has included various maps, a character archive and a glossary of terms. I found these resources very helpful, but I still became lost many times. Some names sound similar, and the sheer number of places and such add difficulty in keeping everything straight. It is possible, though!
The cast are wide, varied and not all are human, thus lending an edgy dynamic to interactions. Neven, a human prodigy, is thrown into a situation far beyond his imaginings, and we witness his growth in leaps and bounds. Neven has an endearing naivete that quickly morphs into world wariness.
""You are a military type now," she says. "Founders' Elite have the equivalent rank of captain, unless they had a higher rank before joining the team." Neven stands speechless at the revelation."
I was also drawn to Founder Lanrete, perhaps for his wisdom as an immortal. In fact, Lanrete's Founders Logs are my favorite part of the story, being informative and lyrical, they also add much needed narrative resting points in a story of this length. Lanrete writes tidbits such as:
"There is so much about this universe that we still don't understand."
"Some claim destiny and fate control our lives, but I know better. Life is a combination of the decisions we make and of those around us."
"As I look at the poverty in our empire, I struggle to see the fairness of the universe."
"A nation's greatness is measured by how it treats its weakest members."
"Looking at the wealth that exists in our empire-in the galaxy!-it sometimes makes a mockery of our noblest intentions. Where individuals, myself not excluded, amass fortunes that are unnecessary."
"Nations fight against nations because of disagreements or because one side has something that the other is unwilling to give up. Whether that something is substantial or not matters little in the end."
Additionally, the intimate scenes depicted are, in my opinion, unnecessary because they add nothing to the plot and do not carry the story forward in any way. Otherwise, character conversations are meaningful, dialog is sharp and information is conveyed smoothly to the reader.
Picking up this book, you will find yourself immersed in a fantastical world that has been meticulously planned and executed with care. Follow along as ancient powers of good and evil battle and rage against one another to save whatever can be saved when the world becomes undone. FOUNDRA is truly an original concept brought into being, and if you are a fan of space opera fiction, I recommend it for your consideration.
By: Emmanuel M. Arriaga
◇◇◇
ABOUT THE BOOK
The Huzien Empire has existed for 80 millennia and a powerful invisible force known as the enesmic permeates every aspect of the Twin Galaxy.
Neven is an engineer working for the pinnacle of scientific achievement known as the MinSci on the Huzien homeworld of Thae. His genius draws the attention of one of the immortal Founders and he finds himself drafted into the military as part of an elite group of special forces known as the Founder’s Elites. Not given much time to adjust, his team is called to investigate stories of otherworldly creatures attacking fringe colony worlds.
Soahc is the most powerful wielder of the enesmic in the Twin Galaxy, he’s also incredibly cocky. That is until he senses a powerful shifting in the enesmic that he can’t explain. Terrified that something is horribly wrong, Soahc leaves his comfortable planet and hitches a ride with Neven and the Founder’s Elites as they investigate the carnage on the fringes of the empire.
Neven, Soahc and their allies discover something ancient from another plane of existence. Something that exposes the fragility of their galactic empire as they fight to survive annihilation from enesmic beings.
◇◇◇
REVIEW
☆☆☆☆
I received a complimentary copy. I voluntarily reviewed this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
~~~
"Nature and technology, the constant balance."
Welcome to a whole new world. In this world, The Huzien Empire, as well as in our own world, a balance of natural energy and technological progress may or may not be possible. Regardless, there are sure to be consequences for every action against the natural order of life.
M. Arriaga's FOUNDRA is a complex space opera of epic proportions staged in a meticulously crafted world of the author's making. This book is a behemoth slice of saga, magic, adventure and suspense- definitely not a quick read. To fully engage with this story, be prepared to invest some time and effort in familiarizing yourself with new terminology, names, places and historical context. For your convenience, Arriaga has included various maps, a character archive and a glossary of terms. I found these resources very helpful, but I still became lost many times. Some names sound similar, and the sheer number of places and such add difficulty in keeping everything straight. It is possible, though!
The cast are wide, varied and not all are human, thus lending an edgy dynamic to interactions. Neven, a human prodigy, is thrown into a situation far beyond his imaginings, and we witness his growth in leaps and bounds. Neven has an endearing naivete that quickly morphs into world wariness.
""You are a military type now," she says. "Founders' Elite have the equivalent rank of captain, unless they had a higher rank before joining the team." Neven stands speechless at the revelation."
I was also drawn to Founder Lanrete, perhaps for his wisdom as an immortal. In fact, Lanrete's Founders Logs are my favorite part of the story, being informative and lyrical, they also add much needed narrative resting points in a story of this length. Lanrete writes tidbits such as:
"There is so much about this universe that we still don't understand."
"Some claim destiny and fate control our lives, but I know better. Life is a combination of the decisions we make and of those around us."
"As I look at the poverty in our empire, I struggle to see the fairness of the universe."
"A nation's greatness is measured by how it treats its weakest members."
"Looking at the wealth that exists in our empire-in the galaxy!-it sometimes makes a mockery of our noblest intentions. Where individuals, myself not excluded, amass fortunes that are unnecessary."
"Nations fight against nations because of disagreements or because one side has something that the other is unwilling to give up. Whether that something is substantial or not matters little in the end."
Additionally, the intimate scenes depicted are, in my opinion, unnecessary because they add nothing to the plot and do not carry the story forward in any way. Otherwise, character conversations are meaningful, dialog is sharp and information is conveyed smoothly to the reader.
Picking up this book, you will find yourself immersed in a fantastical world that has been meticulously planned and executed with care. Follow along as ancient powers of good and evil battle and rage against one another to save whatever can be saved when the world becomes undone. FOUNDRA is truly an original concept brought into being, and if you are a fan of space opera fiction, I recommend it for your consideration.
January 23, 2020
This is a fantasy book set in two galaxies (I refuse to call it science fiction because there is nothing scientific there.) Does the author have any idea how big a galaxy actually is? Here, the characters flit around one galaxy faster than King Alfred's soldiers could move between counties. There are also two levels, the one everyone lives on, and a higher one that appears to be a source of a lot of magic, and somehow Sagren is more of this plane. Anyway, the basic plot revolves around Sagren, who for some unknown reason wants to wipe out life in the main galaxy, two immortals Soach and Lanrete who are trying to save the galaxy, and a number of other lesser "heroes", one of which is Neven who has designed an ultra-special fighting machine, but when fighting starts against aliens who have killed hundreds of millions of people, he goes into a funk about killing. For me, Neven was irritating. It is fine to give a character flaws, but not that many that it is impossible to see how he got to where he is.
There are certain puzzles in the plot, such as why Sagren is doing this, and why, if he depends on this other plane, the more powerful entities there leave him to it. The main reason seems to be that it is necessary so that there can be a lot of fighting. The fighting seems to be mainly throwing magical energy bolts at each other plus the odd use of a sword, or the more ordinary fighting each other with space ships that are busy shooting each other up. There are a number of such spells, but because the reader has no idea what they do or mean I found it impossible to get involved with it. It would have been a lot easier if there were a very few that were explained. Worse than that, while there is a lot of talk about this character or that one being a master strategist, there is almost no strategy. They simply turn up, and worse, when fighting Sagren, they take turns. Um, how about if a couple of them can individually almost win, why not all combine? Worse, when they have an advantage, they seem to stand around and let him repair himself. There appear to be no clear objectives behind the battles, other than the disease seems to be coming from that direction, so they can guess where next and go meet it. Before the fight, or in any gaps, their minds go off on philosophical thoughts. Before a battle, the true soldier tries to get whatever sleep he can. The story is very imaginative, and the author makes the characters be like "people", the quotation marks because immortals and aliens have to be different from ordinary people. If it were not for the battle scenes, this would be well worth five stars, but the whole point of the story is the battles
There are certain puzzles in the plot, such as why Sagren is doing this, and why, if he depends on this other plane, the more powerful entities there leave him to it. The main reason seems to be that it is necessary so that there can be a lot of fighting. The fighting seems to be mainly throwing magical energy bolts at each other plus the odd use of a sword, or the more ordinary fighting each other with space ships that are busy shooting each other up. There are a number of such spells, but because the reader has no idea what they do or mean I found it impossible to get involved with it. It would have been a lot easier if there were a very few that were explained. Worse than that, while there is a lot of talk about this character or that one being a master strategist, there is almost no strategy. They simply turn up, and worse, when fighting Sagren, they take turns. Um, how about if a couple of them can individually almost win, why not all combine? Worse, when they have an advantage, they seem to stand around and let him repair himself. There appear to be no clear objectives behind the battles, other than the disease seems to be coming from that direction, so they can guess where next and go meet it. Before the fight, or in any gaps, their minds go off on philosophical thoughts. Before a battle, the true soldier tries to get whatever sleep he can. The story is very imaginative, and the author makes the characters be like "people", the quotation marks because immortals and aliens have to be different from ordinary people. If it were not for the battle scenes, this would be well worth five stars, but the whole point of the story is the battles
January 25, 2021
It's a must-read for science fiction lovers like me!
November 11, 2019
Inter-Galaxy Action
Foundra by Emmanuel M. Arriaga is an exciting science fiction narrative that will both impress and engage the reader on their adventure through the Twin Galaxy of Oaphen Asracka.
The epic story begins immediately with a deadly battle in which a eight man team experiences the loss of one of their warriors. Subsequently, a chief engineer - a novice experiencially, but recognized for his brilliance - is recruited to serve aboard the starship Foundra Ascensione commander of the starship, Founder Lanrete, is one of the few remaining immortals. His legendary role as a distinguished military leader is to provide for the safety and security of the inhabitants of the twin galaxies by combating those who seek to destroy their way of life.
And so the continuing adventures of space battles and combating enemies without and within unfold. Adventures that reveal valor and the fighting prowess of the well developed characters and also adventures that are non-combative.
Foundra by Emmanuel M. Arriaga is a fabulously written novel. The author's full creativity is on display and use of his vivid action and sci-fi vocabulary places this science fiction novel at a top tier level.
Adding to the quality of this book is the author's inclusion of drawings. These drawings include the outward depiction of the star ship, the deck plan, the twin galaxies, etc.
Additionally, the thoroughness of the author's writing includes a glossary of terms, character archive and other resources that help the reader better navigate and understand the novel.
Foundra by Emmanuel M. Arriaga is an exciting science fiction narrative that will both impress and engage the reader on their adventure through the Twin Galaxy of Oaphen Asracka.
The epic story begins immediately with a deadly battle in which a eight man team experiences the loss of one of their warriors. Subsequently, a chief engineer - a novice experiencially, but recognized for his brilliance - is recruited to serve aboard the starship Foundra Ascensione commander of the starship, Founder Lanrete, is one of the few remaining immortals. His legendary role as a distinguished military leader is to provide for the safety and security of the inhabitants of the twin galaxies by combating those who seek to destroy their way of life.
And so the continuing adventures of space battles and combating enemies without and within unfold. Adventures that reveal valor and the fighting prowess of the well developed characters and also adventures that are non-combative.
Foundra by Emmanuel M. Arriaga is a fabulously written novel. The author's full creativity is on display and use of his vivid action and sci-fi vocabulary places this science fiction novel at a top tier level.
Adding to the quality of this book is the author's inclusion of drawings. These drawings include the outward depiction of the star ship, the deck plan, the twin galaxies, etc.
Additionally, the thoroughness of the author's writing includes a glossary of terms, character archive and other resources that help the reader better navigate and understand the novel.
September 19, 2019
Reading Foundra you will quickly discover Emmanuel M. Arriaga’s passion for technology and science fiction as he merges these two together in a compelling novel. Founder Lanrete is one of the few immortals that still exist in the Twin Galaxy of Oaphen Asracka. His military position takes him throughout the galaxies; understandably he has seen many of his men die. Neven Kenk is commissioned to Lanrete as his new chief engineer aboard the Foundra Ascension. This is the understanding that this will accelerate his career and knowledge first hand.
Emmanuel M. Arriaga is amazing as he lays out the plot and introduces his characters. It is no surprise that this relatively new author has already received an award-winning status. Though Foundra is a longer novel, the characters come alive as you watch them fight the enemies of their galaxies, mourn the loss of their valiant, and seek to quench the corruption among themselves. This is a tantalizing novel that will stay with you and an author you will love even if science fiction is not your genre. This is one of those books that takes you from your world and sends you to a place you never dreamed existed.
Emmanuel M. Arriaga is amazing as he lays out the plot and introduces his characters. It is no surprise that this relatively new author has already received an award-winning status. Though Foundra is a longer novel, the characters come alive as you watch them fight the enemies of their galaxies, mourn the loss of their valiant, and seek to quench the corruption among themselves. This is a tantalizing novel that will stay with you and an author you will love even if science fiction is not your genre. This is one of those books that takes you from your world and sends you to a place you never dreamed existed.
November 17, 2019
Foundra: Risking Life to be a Hero
One who wasn't in any way having a satisfying life now tries to become a hero by fighting to save the galaxy. How does that sound? Strange right? Well, that was the case of Neven as he tries to war against Aliens and foreign bodies as they try to manipulate the galaxy in their own way.
Neven aside from just trying to save the galaxy discovers what most people may call a rare and weird gift: The act of killing. Forced to become a Scenic, He utilises this gift on encountering immortal Lanrete who makes life quite miserable for him. But killing as a gift may eventually mean you have your days numbered on your own palm right? Well, award-winning author Emmanuel M. Arriaga gives us this and many more answers in this adventure of epic proportions sci-fi book: Foundra.
Foundra portrays selflessness: fighting to save your galaxy at the risk of your own life. That could be too much in reality but not so much if we all individually play our part just like Neven to fight against evil and save our world.
One who wasn't in any way having a satisfying life now tries to become a hero by fighting to save the galaxy. How does that sound? Strange right? Well, that was the case of Neven as he tries to war against Aliens and foreign bodies as they try to manipulate the galaxy in their own way.
Neven aside from just trying to save the galaxy discovers what most people may call a rare and weird gift: The act of killing. Forced to become a Scenic, He utilises this gift on encountering immortal Lanrete who makes life quite miserable for him. But killing as a gift may eventually mean you have your days numbered on your own palm right? Well, award-winning author Emmanuel M. Arriaga gives us this and many more answers in this adventure of epic proportions sci-fi book: Foundra.
Foundra portrays selflessness: fighting to save your galaxy at the risk of your own life. That could be too much in reality but not so much if we all individually play our part just like Neven to fight against evil and save our world.
March 14, 2025
Foundra is the beginning of a sci-fi experience that I have fallen deeply into- and I must admit, that I don’t handle the genre as well as others- the author of this series, Emmanuel M. Arriaga has done a super job of creating a futuristic world and cast of characters that I have found entertaining and engaging- so much so that since I picked the first book up I continually hate to put it down and can’t wait for things like work or dinner to end so that I can get back to this futuristic tale….
The series and first book revolve around a powerful force known as the Enesmic, which is a large part of the universe and all in it, and many are able to wield it through Cihphism, a mystical art that many engage in but few master. But, when something goes wrong with the Enesmic flow of the universe, while some of the characters feel it and know, many are surprised when they find the universe is in danger from a force calling itself Sagren.
The first to feel the Enesmic disruption is Soahc, a founder and immortal, who teaches Cihphism and who is probably the best in the universe at wielding it. That is, until he goes up against Sagren and almost loses his life- something he (or others) didn’t think possible. Without the help of his wife and the other immortals, Soahc couldn’t fight a presence that has come from another place and time and as the others unravel where that is, Sagren (that presence) begins to decimate the universe.
As all the characters in the book fight Sagren and seem to be losing, I kept rooting for them- and hoped that they would win in the end (and you’ll have to read the book, to see if they do ;). In that time, I fell in love with this sci-fi book- with all the characters and also the entire storyline. When I finished the first book, I was so happy that it was a part of a series, and that there were two books that I had to look forward to.
Foundra is a book not only for fantasy and sci-fi lovers, but for those who read other genres and want to fall in love with something outside their comfort zone. You may even find out you like reading something other than what you’re used to- if you’re not a sci-fi/ fantasy lover and try this series out.
When it comes to the author, I can’t wait to settle into the next two books in this series- and can’t wait to see where everything goes in the future. I have never been more entertained and satisfied with a sci-fi novel, than I have been with Foundra. I’m already into the second book- and just put down the first!
The series and first book revolve around a powerful force known as the Enesmic, which is a large part of the universe and all in it, and many are able to wield it through Cihphism, a mystical art that many engage in but few master. But, when something goes wrong with the Enesmic flow of the universe, while some of the characters feel it and know, many are surprised when they find the universe is in danger from a force calling itself Sagren.
The first to feel the Enesmic disruption is Soahc, a founder and immortal, who teaches Cihphism and who is probably the best in the universe at wielding it. That is, until he goes up against Sagren and almost loses his life- something he (or others) didn’t think possible. Without the help of his wife and the other immortals, Soahc couldn’t fight a presence that has come from another place and time and as the others unravel where that is, Sagren (that presence) begins to decimate the universe.
As all the characters in the book fight Sagren and seem to be losing, I kept rooting for them- and hoped that they would win in the end (and you’ll have to read the book, to see if they do ;). In that time, I fell in love with this sci-fi book- with all the characters and also the entire storyline. When I finished the first book, I was so happy that it was a part of a series, and that there were two books that I had to look forward to.
Foundra is a book not only for fantasy and sci-fi lovers, but for those who read other genres and want to fall in love with something outside their comfort zone. You may even find out you like reading something other than what you’re used to- if you’re not a sci-fi/ fantasy lover and try this series out.
When it comes to the author, I can’t wait to settle into the next two books in this series- and can’t wait to see where everything goes in the future. I have never been more entertained and satisfied with a sci-fi novel, than I have been with Foundra. I’m already into the second book- and just put down the first!
April 23, 2022
Foundra is the spaceship where our current set of slightly off (this group had me rolling at times, others moments broke my heart) yet highly trained set of warriors and scientists resides
Our somewhat unconventional crew is tasked with guarding the twin galaxies but something new is threatening their existence - something that they have never faced before
Will our crew discover what or who is causing this anomaly?
Can they defeat it if they do?
I liked the contrasting personalities of the different characters and how authentic they came across
Speaking of I do suggest checking out the character cards on his Amazon page - did a great job bringing them to life - back to my thoughts
The author transports his readers to a universe that is packed with action, angst, suspense, twists and turns -
Once I fell into the rhythm it keep me turning the pages needing to know what happens next and how they were going to wiggle out of "this one"
This is told from multiple POVs
This did take me a bit of time to get all the characters and details in a somewhat manageable order
I found going between the audio and ebook versions made all the difference in this universe for me :)
- a cheat? Maybe -
The narration was good and provided the inflictions and nuances I would expect from the various character's
It felt like there was a lot of information that the author wanted to introduce - I find this common with the first in a series - sometimes, IMO, more than was necessary or that my human brain could process fast enough
But eventually it all connected
This is a full-length Sci-Fi space opera offering a concrete storyline
It takes place in a masterfully crafted universe packed with imaginative and diverse characters
A solid sci-fi experience
Our somewhat unconventional crew is tasked with guarding the twin galaxies but something new is threatening their existence - something that they have never faced before
Will our crew discover what or who is causing this anomaly?
Can they defeat it if they do?
I liked the contrasting personalities of the different characters and how authentic they came across
Speaking of I do suggest checking out the character cards on his Amazon page - did a great job bringing them to life - back to my thoughts
The author transports his readers to a universe that is packed with action, angst, suspense, twists and turns -
Once I fell into the rhythm it keep me turning the pages needing to know what happens next and how they were going to wiggle out of "this one"
This is told from multiple POVs
This did take me a bit of time to get all the characters and details in a somewhat manageable order
I found going between the audio and ebook versions made all the difference in this universe for me :)
- a cheat? Maybe -
The narration was good and provided the inflictions and nuances I would expect from the various character's
It felt like there was a lot of information that the author wanted to introduce - I find this common with the first in a series - sometimes, IMO, more than was necessary or that my human brain could process fast enough
But eventually it all connected
This is a full-length Sci-Fi space opera offering a concrete storyline
It takes place in a masterfully crafted universe packed with imaginative and diverse characters
A solid sci-fi experience
January 15, 2022
He stepped on the ship, its sheer enormity intimidating yet exciting him. He walked the long hallway toward the towering doors at the end of the path. He was ready to start a new journey, to go on an adventure he wouldn’t be able to fathom. The doors swung open and before him was an expanse of windows highlighting the colorful galaxies and vibrant stars of the universe. He took a deep breath as he took in the beauty, but then he glanced at the faces in the room and noticed their somber expressions… something evil was trying to invade.
Foundra is a science fiction adventure, filled with all the action you expect from a science fiction novel. The book was a bit overwhelming to start, with a lot of terminology and characters, but I loved that the author included an appendix of characters and a glossary of terms to help learn all of the details. I recommend reading these sections first before you dive into the story.
I loved the author’s attention to detail and the beautiful descriptions used to get you immersed in the story. While that was something I enjoyed, I do have to point out that there were some very awkward sexual tensions and scenarios that I thought could be reigned in a bit as they didn’t add anything to the overall story. Also, the one main character’s overwhelming attraction to every female in his path was very odd and these sections I felt weren’t necessary.
Overall it was an enjoyable book and if you’re a science fiction fan you may want to check this one out.
TW: Death, Gore, Murder, Death of a Loved One.
*I received a gifted copy of this book from the publisher for my honest review.
Foundra is a science fiction adventure, filled with all the action you expect from a science fiction novel. The book was a bit overwhelming to start, with a lot of terminology and characters, but I loved that the author included an appendix of characters and a glossary of terms to help learn all of the details. I recommend reading these sections first before you dive into the story.
I loved the author’s attention to detail and the beautiful descriptions used to get you immersed in the story. While that was something I enjoyed, I do have to point out that there were some very awkward sexual tensions and scenarios that I thought could be reigned in a bit as they didn’t add anything to the overall story. Also, the one main character’s overwhelming attraction to every female in his path was very odd and these sections I felt weren’t necessary.
Overall it was an enjoyable book and if you’re a science fiction fan you may want to check this one out.
TW: Death, Gore, Murder, Death of a Loved One.
*I received a gifted copy of this book from the publisher for my honest review.
December 29, 2021
oundra by Emmanuel M. Arriaga is perfect for readers of science fiction. While reading it I was reminded of the stories created for Star Trek. Even though Foundra does have the vibe of the long ago series, its story is a little more complex than the TV show.
The Founders are immortal and have an elite force aimed at protecting the galaxy. Neven, a human, joins their elite forces as his genius will enable him to contribute highly to the team. A powerful shifting in the galaxy also encourages Soahc to leave his planet and join the team to discover the cause of what is happening. The team discovers something ancient from another plane of existence which they fight in order to survive.
I enjoyed the complex nature of the story and the build up to the climax. The author has some interesting ideas which I appreciated. The fight scenes were well written and I could imagine the movement in my mind as I read the text. The references to technology in the book are intriguing and it would be interesting if any of those ideas came to pass.
What I found difficult, through, was keeping track of all the strange names in the novel. While reading, I often wished for a reference page detailing where each person fit in. I also found the sex scenes and description of relationships to be a little stilted.
In summary I would say that Foundra is worth reading if science fiction is what you enjoy reading.
The Founders are immortal and have an elite force aimed at protecting the galaxy. Neven, a human, joins their elite forces as his genius will enable him to contribute highly to the team. A powerful shifting in the galaxy also encourages Soahc to leave his planet and join the team to discover the cause of what is happening. The team discovers something ancient from another plane of existence which they fight in order to survive.
I enjoyed the complex nature of the story and the build up to the climax. The author has some interesting ideas which I appreciated. The fight scenes were well written and I could imagine the movement in my mind as I read the text. The references to technology in the book are intriguing and it would be interesting if any of those ideas came to pass.
What I found difficult, through, was keeping track of all the strange names in the novel. While reading, I often wished for a reference page detailing where each person fit in. I also found the sex scenes and description of relationships to be a little stilted.
In summary I would say that Foundra is worth reading if science fiction is what you enjoy reading.
February 8, 2022
This reminded me of Star Trek, well that of which I have seen. I grew up with a Dad that loved watching the series so it was on the tv a lot. This story spans across two galaxies. The story is well written, but not easy to read. I knew I was in for a complicated story when page after page was maps or plans of ships or universes, so I grabbed a note pad to write down characters and boy am I glad I did! There is a lot going on here both in terms of characters and setting. A far amount of the story is devoted to explaining the universe and how it works, I think it goes without saying that most fantasy books start this way. This is a long story 496 pages to be exact. There is plenty of action and romance to balance the story well and keep it flowing. The characters are diverse and intriguing. My favorite was Zun. The plot, like the universe, is complex, but with all the action it moves along at a good pace. My one complaint about the story is that it suffers a bit from being a first book, the building of worlds is always hard for me. Overall, I did find the story enjoyable and I loved the ending and can’t wait to see where this series goes.
TW: Grief, Death
TW: Grief, Death
December 17, 2021
This is a space opera with a grand scale, spanning two galaxies/universes/planes or such. The story is well written, but I can't call it easy to read. There is a lot going on here both in terms of characters and setting. A far amount of the story is devoted to explaining this bit or another of the universe and how it works. And this is a long story. But there is also plenty of action as well, so it never seems like a slog. The characters are diverse and intriguing and I would like to know more about them. The plot, like the universe, is complex, but with all the action it moves along at a good pace. My one complaint about the story is that it suffers a bit from being a first book. There is a bit too much explanation about the universe and not enough about the motivation of the various characters. Overall, I did find the story to be engaging and I am looking forward to seeing where it goes in the next book.
Recommended
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout for review purposes.
Recommended
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout for review purposes.
March 31, 2020
Let me begin by saying that I really enjoyed reading Hyperion by Dan Simmons. What called my attention was the fantastic cover with a lot of spaceships and people walking all over the page?
From the first page I was intrigued by how the story was going to play out. After reading the stunning first line I was intrigued by Hyperion and by the end of the first page I was already hooked.
This read was really enjoyable! There was a lot of mystery going on too, and it was extremely well-written. I had a hard time putting it down. The story was brilliantly plotted: the characters were engaging and it had more depth than other sci-fi novels I've read. The story kept moving throughout the entire book and had unexpected twists and turns that kept me intrigued.
It is a fast-paced, action-packed book that always had something interesting happening. This is a really great read. I was happily surprised; this novel is fresh, unique and well handled indeed. I really liked that.
From the first page I was intrigued by how the story was going to play out. After reading the stunning first line I was intrigued by Hyperion and by the end of the first page I was already hooked.
This read was really enjoyable! There was a lot of mystery going on too, and it was extremely well-written. I had a hard time putting it down. The story was brilliantly plotted: the characters were engaging and it had more depth than other sci-fi novels I've read. The story kept moving throughout the entire book and had unexpected twists and turns that kept me intrigued.
It is a fast-paced, action-packed book that always had something interesting happening. This is a really great read. I was happily surprised; this novel is fresh, unique and well handled indeed. I really liked that.
December 28, 2022
Foundra is the winning book for the 2022 Global Book Award Silver Medal for Science Fiction. This science fiction story revolves around two main characters: Neven who is a science prodigy that got into military service after the death of the chief engineer of the galactic empire and is finding his place in the Ascension, and Zun is the widow of the so-called chief engineer. Their paths cross when a new threat emerges from another existing plane, and both find themselves in the middle of the war.
The plot is pretty complex to understand, but it's something very usual in sci-fi storylines. I don't see this as a bad thing but it is necessary to be very focused on the events and remember every character revolving around the story. The story is very enthusiastic and intriguing, making you to learn and know more about the people, the galaxy, and the so-called “Ascension”. For any sci-fi readers looking for a new read, would recommend this to you!
The plot is pretty complex to understand, but it's something very usual in sci-fi storylines. I don't see this as a bad thing but it is necessary to be very focused on the events and remember every character revolving around the story. The story is very enthusiastic and intriguing, making you to learn and know more about the people, the galaxy, and the so-called “Ascension”. For any sci-fi readers looking for a new read, would recommend this to you!
March 31, 2023
I figured this book was going to be a Sci Fi romantic thriller/suspense novel based on the description, but this is a war novel. The first half is introducing a team of characters, Sargon (the villain) emerging, the training of our supposed main character, Neven, and the first encounters of our villain’s minions. The second half is very descriptive, bloody battles, and various military personnel strategizing with most of its centering around another character, Soahc. Triggers in this book include graphic blood and gore, torture (physical and mental), and rape. There are also unnecessary sex scenes between various characters just tossed in there as more of a stress reliever of our characters than actual affection. Although I thoroughly enjoyed the camaraderie between the team members, the awesome tech and weapons, and the manipulating matter powers, I could do without most of the battles, and all the strategizing meetings because it was just too much.
December 30, 2022
Foundra, by author Emmanuel M Arriaga, is the first book in the two-part series called the “Foundra Series”.
It follows the main protagonist Neven, a science prodigy who meets the immortal founder of a galactic empire, but things go sideways when he’s employed in the military. Soon, Neven and Zun find themselves thrust into a war the likes of which the galaxy hasn’t experienced in over 500 hundred millennia. The events are set in 420,000 B. A (Before Ascension) spans a period of 80,000 years after Foundra’s ascension. The story follows a highly adventurous sci-fi journey throughout.
Emmanuel has portrayed an incredible range of characters packed with histories, technologies, and abilities. These add to the book's value, making it more engaging to its readers.
Overall, it's a fascinating read.
It follows the main protagonist Neven, a science prodigy who meets the immortal founder of a galactic empire, but things go sideways when he’s employed in the military. Soon, Neven and Zun find themselves thrust into a war the likes of which the galaxy hasn’t experienced in over 500 hundred millennia. The events are set in 420,000 B. A (Before Ascension) spans a period of 80,000 years after Foundra’s ascension. The story follows a highly adventurous sci-fi journey throughout.
Emmanuel has portrayed an incredible range of characters packed with histories, technologies, and abilities. These add to the book's value, making it more engaging to its readers.
Overall, it's a fascinating read.
December 31, 2022
Well this has been a journey full of action. Foundra is a science fiction novel mixed with a high fantasy aspect written by Emmanuel M Arriaga. This book is centered around characters Neven and Zun who were suddenly became trapped into a galactic war. I love the complexity of Foundra's story. Knowing that it is the first book of the series, I can say that it has all the elements of a very promising installment. The settings, character dynamics and the timelines are amazing and very interesting to discover. It's certainly one of the rare sci-fi gems I encounter. Emmanuel M Arriaga definitely pulled off a great series-opener here with his on-point interesting narration. And as mentioned, the book was action-filled and the way they were described seemed like something you see in movies like Star Wars. Over all, I had an amazing time reading this book!
March 4, 2023
Impressive world building
Foundra by Emmanuel Arriaga is a new science fiction saga about Neven a science prodigy and Zun a generals widow in the middle of an intergalactic war. I thoroughly enjoyed the graphics that were added into the book, it made the book more readable but I feel like this would have been better as a graphic novel. The plot was well thought out but I need more depth for each character. There were several species introduced all throughout the story and having a glossary made it easier to remember who's who and what's what. The novel has great potential with the author's great technology ideas and the world he built he is halfway there. I hope that the next instalment will have better characters. I believe sci-fi fans of star trek and star wars would enjoy this novel.
Foundra by Emmanuel Arriaga is a new science fiction saga about Neven a science prodigy and Zun a generals widow in the middle of an intergalactic war. I thoroughly enjoyed the graphics that were added into the book, it made the book more readable but I feel like this would have been better as a graphic novel. The plot was well thought out but I need more depth for each character. There were several species introduced all throughout the story and having a glossary made it easier to remember who's who and what's what. The novel has great potential with the author's great technology ideas and the world he built he is halfway there. I hope that the next instalment will have better characters. I believe sci-fi fans of star trek and star wars would enjoy this novel.
December 27, 2022
Foundra is the first book in the two-part series called the “Foundra Series”. The book was written by the author Emmanuel M Arriaga. You follow Neven, a science prodigy who meets the immortal founder of a galactic empire but things go sideways when he’s drafted into the military. Soon, Neven and Zun find themselves thrust into the middle of a war the likes of which the galaxy hasn’t experienced in over 500 hundred millennia. A fascinating sci-fi story that I’ve never seen before. The complexity of the plot is intriguing along with the character design. The way the two of them are thrust into such a concerning situation all of a sudden when they are just working against each other forces them to start working with one another for their survival. It’s a great sci-fi book.
December 27, 2022
Foundra is an amazing science fiction story written by Emmanuel M Arriaga. In it, we follow Neven, a science prodigy, who’s just met the Immortal founder of the galactic empire but after tragedy strikes enlisted into the military to the position of Chief Engineer after the previous one is murdered. Zun the widow of the previous engineer takes her Ire out on Neven, and all of a sudden, they’re in the middle of a raging war. This is a very unique plot done well, you have two people bickering at each other, and all of a sudden, they’re forced to work together for the guarantee of their survival. It’s a unique, thrilling, and fascinating story. I definitely recommend this to anyone looking for a good science fiction read.
December 30, 2022
“Foundra” is a pretty interesting book written by the award winning author Emmanuel M Arriaga.
This teeth-grinding and edge of the seat fictional novel is a must read for several reasons. The complexity of the characters, the great plot development and the settings descriptions make the title absolutely compelling.
However, this story gets a bit complicated. There are so many people and so many plane of existence that it becomes difficult to put all the pieces together. I noticed that the author tried to help the reader providing extra character descriptions; anyway, this doesn’t make it any less complicated. All in all, I finished it and I gave it four stars because as I said, it has a lot of good things.
This teeth-grinding and edge of the seat fictional novel is a must read for several reasons. The complexity of the characters, the great plot development and the settings descriptions make the title absolutely compelling.
However, this story gets a bit complicated. There are so many people and so many plane of existence that it becomes difficult to put all the pieces together. I noticed that the author tried to help the reader providing extra character descriptions; anyway, this doesn’t make it any less complicated. All in all, I finished it and I gave it four stars because as I said, it has a lot of good things.
December 30, 2022
Foundra is an imaginative and original book. The world building and the creation of particular characteristics and languages of the cultures depicted in the story are amazing. The author has done an excellent job at this. It combines the excitement of adventure with fantasy and science fiction that the author brings together to form the basic components of this story. The conversations between the characters are clear and straightforward so it is easy to understand the storyline. The depiction of the protagonists’ difficulties and how they advance through a dangerous reality make for some interesting reading. The author has created an exciting, fast-paced novel that science fiction genre fans will love.
March 4, 2023
Love a long, sci-fi/space opera book and this is what you will get with Foundra. This is the first book of two in the series and it is full, and I mean full, of action. Another thing I love in fantasy and sci-fi is when authors really put in work in world-building and Arriga has done just this. We are given a great variation in characters, technology, terms, and alien terms or sci-fi concepts that are well explained and followed throughout the book. Really loved that there was a glossary and maps too! You will spend time on this book but in a good way. I had to go back a few times to remember some things and probably should have taken notes but I do this with any fantasy or sci-fi that has such depth. Can’t wait to read the second book! Really a good read for Sci-fi fans.
December 28, 2022
Foundra is the first book in the saga by author Emmanuel M Arriaga and it is an awarded and fantastic science fiction book.
The plot takes place in a futuristic intergalactic war scenario that does nothing less than stimulate the imagination of the readers. Being young or experienced in this genre, surely all readers will enjoy the fantasy elements and the good development of the characters, whose stories are certainly different and captivating.
To sum up, with this engaging cast of characters and a fascinating plot surrounding inter-species politics and Galaxy war, it will appeal to readers across genres. This is a truly imaginative journey through the stars that I really enjoyed.
The plot takes place in a futuristic intergalactic war scenario that does nothing less than stimulate the imagination of the readers. Being young or experienced in this genre, surely all readers will enjoy the fantasy elements and the good development of the characters, whose stories are certainly different and captivating.
To sum up, with this engaging cast of characters and a fascinating plot surrounding inter-species politics and Galaxy war, it will appeal to readers across genres. This is a truly imaginative journey through the stars that I really enjoyed.
December 28, 2022
The science fiction and action novel Foundra reads surprisingly quickly for a book of its genre.
This is not a book to read. It is a book to devour! Arriaga's prose is fast, direct, and full of descriptions that immerse you fully in the action. The frantic pace of events, as well as the roles played by their characters with their respective points of view, provide us with a sense of freshness and agility in reading that makes the pages of this book disappear.
It is a very entertaining book with a good dose of entertainment. The author has done a great job with this plot. The book has a lot to give, and the reader will be satisfied with it. I recommend it.
This is not a book to read. It is a book to devour! Arriaga's prose is fast, direct, and full of descriptions that immerse you fully in the action. The frantic pace of events, as well as the roles played by their characters with their respective points of view, provide us with a sense of freshness and agility in reading that makes the pages of this book disappear.
It is a very entertaining book with a good dose of entertainment. The author has done a great job with this plot. The book has a lot to give, and the reader will be satisfied with it. I recommend it.
December 28, 2022
Foundra by Emmanuel M. Arriaga is a science fiction book. The story starts 80,000 years after Founders Ascension when Neven, the main character, has to take the place of the immortal's chief engineer. From there Neven is involved in a war in which he fights to save the Galaxy. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys science-fiction stories. The author did a good job writing it, it's entertaining and keeps focus while reading. I have to say that this may be a bit heavy to read because it contains a lot of information, but the author takes the job explaining everything very well, he designed maps and a vocabulary to explain it. Reading this book is a good challenge.
December 29, 2022
The author of “Foundra,” Emmanuel A. Arriaga, creates a fantastic blend of techno thriller, science fiction and space opera with novel. The protagonist of the novel is made to serve on the star ship of an inter-galactic military who is thrust into the middle of a war in the galaxy. The author spends plenty of time developing all aspects of his world, while at the same time telling an exciting story.
For some, this story might be a bit dense. There are maps, diagrams and appendices to help readers along, so you’ve got to be a fan of in-depth world-building to really appreciate this novel, but for those of us who do, it’s definitely a great read!
For some, this story might be a bit dense. There are maps, diagrams and appendices to help readers along, so you’ve got to be a fan of in-depth world-building to really appreciate this novel, but for those of us who do, it’s definitely a great read!
December 29, 2022
If you enjoy futuristic intergalactic space stories with new planets and stars and new languages and new names, then this is a very enjoyable book. It's super detailed in its history, language, setting, character development, and plot. There are maps of the galaxies and spaceship and a lexicon of terms and also a list and description of characters broken down by organization. It's obvious the author put a ton of time and thought into creating the setting of this story and the characters. In addition to all of the above, it's well written and easy to read. If this is your kind of book, then I would highly recommend Foundra.
December 30, 2022
“Foundra” by Emmanuel A. Arriaga is the first book in a series of two which tells the story of an alternative universe with a technology completely different from ours. The scientist Neven, the hero of the story, becomes a Secnic, which is basically a technology soldier. With his skills, he must try and save his world.
I found the novel a bit confusing as there are so many new concepts. I had to refer to the appendix often to figure out what was going on. If you like stories that make you feel like you are discovering a complex new world, you will probably like this. However, for me there was too much fighting and too many confusing details that I had to look up to understand.
I found the novel a bit confusing as there are so many new concepts. I had to refer to the appendix often to figure out what was going on. If you like stories that make you feel like you are discovering a complex new world, you will probably like this. However, for me there was too much fighting and too many confusing details that I had to look up to understand.
March 2, 2023
This is a book destined for people ready to submerge in an exciting totally different world, that's the only way to read this story and not get lost.
Emmanuel M. Arriaga has written this first book of the saga, a great start if you ask me. The story is a bit confusing, so I recommend reading it and paying fully attention, it's not the kind of book to read just before bed. The story is complex, yet well crafted. The author helps by providing a prologue with maps and blueprints of this new world. It resemblances in a way to Star Wars, if you ask me.
Overall, a book worth reading, definitely waiting for book #2!
Emmanuel M. Arriaga has written this first book of the saga, a great start if you ask me. The story is a bit confusing, so I recommend reading it and paying fully attention, it's not the kind of book to read just before bed. The story is complex, yet well crafted. The author helps by providing a prologue with maps and blueprints of this new world. It resemblances in a way to Star Wars, if you ask me.
Overall, a book worth reading, definitely waiting for book #2!
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