What do you think?
Paradigm 2045 #1
Trinity's Children
In 2004, Doctor Damien Howard’s one-hundred thirty-first birthday celebration took an unexpected turn. His personal SETI project detected an extraterrestrial signal directed at Earth.
Unfortunately, Dr. Howard’s long hoped for communication contained a message of dire warning rather than greeting. In 1945 humanity had become a species of galactic interest, and was given one-hundred years to address the issue.
Now in 2045, only months remain before humanity’s grace period expires and the world mourns the passing of a titan. Damien Howard lies dead. Only his security officer, Misha Sokolov and artificially intelligent agent, Coleman are aware of Earth’s impending deadline.
Meanwhile, in Nairobi, Kenya, Charlotte Omandi prepares to address luminaries gathered for her keynote presentation at the Omandi Institute. Her life changes forever when Damien Howard reaches out to her from beyond the grave. She is the first born of Howard’s Children, nine genetically enhanced humans who hold the key to Earth’s salvation.
Charlotte must assemble a crew capable of demonstrating both faster-than-light travel and the wisdom required to join a galactic community. As humanity’s leaders become aware of the impending threat, massive forces attempt to impede Omandi and her nascent crew.
Despite Damien’s gifts of wealth, technology, and genetic superiority, his children face daunting challenges as they race against an armageddon clock set to strike on July 16, 2045. By that day, humanity will either shift its paradigm or perish.
Unfortunately, Dr. Howard’s long hoped for communication contained a message of dire warning rather than greeting. In 1945 humanity had become a species of galactic interest, and was given one-hundred years to address the issue.
Now in 2045, only months remain before humanity’s grace period expires and the world mourns the passing of a titan. Damien Howard lies dead. Only his security officer, Misha Sokolov and artificially intelligent agent, Coleman are aware of Earth’s impending deadline.
Meanwhile, in Nairobi, Kenya, Charlotte Omandi prepares to address luminaries gathered for her keynote presentation at the Omandi Institute. Her life changes forever when Damien Howard reaches out to her from beyond the grave. She is the first born of Howard’s Children, nine genetically enhanced humans who hold the key to Earth’s salvation.
Charlotte must assemble a crew capable of demonstrating both faster-than-light travel and the wisdom required to join a galactic community. As humanity’s leaders become aware of the impending threat, massive forces attempt to impede Omandi and her nascent crew.
Despite Damien’s gifts of wealth, technology, and genetic superiority, his children face daunting challenges as they race against an armageddon clock set to strike on July 16, 2045. By that day, humanity will either shift its paradigm or perish.
512 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 9, 2020
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
September 15, 2020
I am coming across entirely too many guys who think belligerent asshole=strong woman... It really doesnt. It just equals belligerent asshole. No matter what sex, gender or species you assign that personality to... its still a belligerent asshole. And to me not at all charming or endearing...
November 25, 2020
Real rating 2.5 stars. First - base concept of story and sci-fi adventure is pretty great, even though some parts here and there are pretty dumb, simply to add more challenges or adventure, but clearly makes no sense. (Not many of those thankfuly)
Real problem with book are characters especially main one. For geneticly engineered super-leader our captain is real asshole, condescending, arrogant and love prove to everyone she is most superior person in room. Over time even other important chars start acting similar - it almost feels as everyone tryes to be biggest most arrogant a-hole in room. That attitude practicly ruined otherwise interesting story for me which left me pretty sad. Without that i think i would actually loved this kind of story.
PS: Sorry for bad grammar, my EN is just self-learned.
Real problem with book are characters especially main one. For geneticly engineered super-leader our captain is real asshole, condescending, arrogant and love prove to everyone she is most superior person in room. Over time even other important chars start acting similar - it almost feels as everyone tryes to be biggest most arrogant a-hole in room. That attitude practicly ruined otherwise interesting story for me which left me pretty sad. Without that i think i would actually loved this kind of story.
PS: Sorry for bad grammar, my EN is just self-learned.
August 2, 2020
Paradigm 2045: Trinity's Children is a mixture of pop culture references, nostalgic memories, and the message that maybe those in charge don’t always have our best interests at heart. Once again Robert W. Ross has crafted a delightful world where aliens want to destroy us and the US Government is clueless and misdirected, and the genetically engineered humans must step in to save the world. It is up to a very wealthy man to take the necessary steps to save humanity and he does so in an unconventional manner.
Ross delivers many a nostalgic moment in his references to Bladerunner and Dr. Who, characters based on Star Trek, a futuristic like world as in Ready Player One and The Expanse. Those moments where we are given phrases from these shows or references are the moments that remind us of our first experience with this genre. Those memories come flitting back to mind and a smile plays around the reader's lips unconsciously. These moments are those rare times in which Ross allows us to be young again.
Ross blends witty comedic moments, pop culture references, and sci-fi themes all into a powerful, vivid book unrivaled by any other that I have read in this genre. Ross delivers a storyline that captures the attention of the reader and provides an action-packed journey.
The character development is on target, he doesn’t weigh down the story with each character’s background which is unique and not common practice. There were some characters I wanted to know about right away and others I am fine with discovering in time. What I did learn about each character was interesting and I could see a variety of ways the characters may develop – I can’t wait to see how close I am. I loved James the Pilot and Capt. Omandi. I found them delightful in different ways. His characters are flawed which makes them much easier to relate.
This is a steady-paced story with dialog and plot twists that move the story along. I cannot wait for the next book in the series and I cannot wait to hear it on audio as well! I know Nick Podehl will hit it out of this world!
Ross delivers many a nostalgic moment in his references to Bladerunner and Dr. Who, characters based on Star Trek, a futuristic like world as in Ready Player One and The Expanse. Those moments where we are given phrases from these shows or references are the moments that remind us of our first experience with this genre. Those memories come flitting back to mind and a smile plays around the reader's lips unconsciously. These moments are those rare times in which Ross allows us to be young again.
Ross blends witty comedic moments, pop culture references, and sci-fi themes all into a powerful, vivid book unrivaled by any other that I have read in this genre. Ross delivers a storyline that captures the attention of the reader and provides an action-packed journey.
The character development is on target, he doesn’t weigh down the story with each character’s background which is unique and not common practice. There were some characters I wanted to know about right away and others I am fine with discovering in time. What I did learn about each character was interesting and I could see a variety of ways the characters may develop – I can’t wait to see how close I am. I loved James the Pilot and Capt. Omandi. I found them delightful in different ways. His characters are flawed which makes them much easier to relate.
This is a steady-paced story with dialog and plot twists that move the story along. I cannot wait for the next book in the series and I cannot wait to hear it on audio as well! I know Nick Podehl will hit it out of this world!
March 31, 2021
I liked the premise, but hated the character, especially the MC, who just comes across as a giant asshole. DNFed around 33%.
September 3, 2021
The main character in this is like nails on a chalk board. I really tried hard to look past the issues with her character but I was constantly interrupted in any enjoyment I could get from this by her.
I read a few reviews on here about her being an absolute garbage of a character because of how mean she was, i didn't take those reviews very seriously and thought 'oh there's no way a character is that bad, i can look past it'.
Well I learned today, that yes, a character can be that bad, and no, the book won't let you look past it.
I got half way through this book and had to DNF, honestly it was was non stop and way too consistent for me. This mean female main character just kept getting on the way with anything good I have to say about this book.
Its really too bad too. Other then some world building that took a while to pick up, I thought the premise had some good ideas behind it. I liked how the plot was shaping up, just wish it got faster earlier on, those first few hours were a bit of a struggle with its pacing. It probably felt like torture though because with all that slow paced moments you had to deal with this constant mean main female character.
I really think this stereotype of a mean female main character = strong just got in the way as it felt like everything about how she was written was veiled with that idea.
Trust the bad reviews and don't try and think you can get around this major flaw in the book like I though I could. This is probably the first time I've ever run into such a grating issue like this in all the hundreds of books I read.
I read a few reviews on here about her being an absolute garbage of a character because of how mean she was, i didn't take those reviews very seriously and thought 'oh there's no way a character is that bad, i can look past it'.
Well I learned today, that yes, a character can be that bad, and no, the book won't let you look past it.
I got half way through this book and had to DNF, honestly it was was non stop and way too consistent for me. This mean female main character just kept getting on the way with anything good I have to say about this book.
Its really too bad too. Other then some world building that took a while to pick up, I thought the premise had some good ideas behind it. I liked how the plot was shaping up, just wish it got faster earlier on, those first few hours were a bit of a struggle with its pacing. It probably felt like torture though because with all that slow paced moments you had to deal with this constant mean main female character.
I really think this stereotype of a mean female main character = strong just got in the way as it felt like everything about how she was written was veiled with that idea.
Trust the bad reviews and don't try and think you can get around this major flaw in the book like I though I could. This is probably the first time I've ever run into such a grating issue like this in all the hundreds of books I read.
September 4, 2021
I'm struggling with this novel. The concept and story are great. The writing is OK. The characters rub me raw. There are pointless references to 1980s and 1990s pop culture, which is just plain wrong coming from a genetic marvel who's been alive since the 1800s. Where are all the Victorian, Prohibition, World War, Bohemian, Hippy, and otherwise remarkable cultural influences? There are too many stray references here to keep me engaged in the story.
September 8, 2021
Excellent story. If you liked Guardians of the Galaxy, Doctor Who, and Star Trek TNG, you will like this! A good beginning to a new series.
March 15, 2021
Absolutely amazing! Loved this book, Nick Pohdel is an inspiring narrator that really brought this book alive.
March 22, 2021
Great book
This is a great start to a fascinating trilogy. I'm defiantly in on this one! I don't usually leave reviews but this one earned it!
This is a great start to a fascinating trilogy. I'm defiantly in on this one! I don't usually leave reviews but this one earned it!
May 18, 2023
Beyond fabulous!
September 17, 2022
I really enjoyed listening to the first book in this series. I found all of the characters engaging and people worth rooting for even though they each had their own flaws. There were excessive amounts of curse words which took me out of the story a couple of times, but I didn't feel like the author was trying to make some kind of quota to be seen as cool. Rather, those words were used at specific points when many people would use them in real-life. For that reason, I can excuse them, but I would say this book is for 16+ if you have an issue with language. Since I'm an adult, I listened and found myself hooked during the first chapter. I'm a big science fiction fan: all the Stark Trek shows, Doctor Who, Babylon 5, and others that were mentioned actually helped me imagine what was going on in the scene and picture certain locations.
By the middle point of the book, I was in love with the characters. Since I listened on Audible, I want to point out that the narrator did a wonderful job and I enjoyed not having to hear a bunch of sound effects in addition to the characters speaking. Each character's voice and persona felt like their own. I really appreciate that as a reader because it helps me better picture and identify each character throughout the story, but it's also just more fun to listen to. Unless it's done badly, in which case it's a waste of time and money for all involved. Thankfully, that wasn't the situation here. I would highly recommend the Audible version and I enjoyed listening while I diamond painted, but I think folks that like to read it would also enjoy it on a Kindle or in paperback format.
I'm going to give myself a few days to process everything that happened and then proceed to book 2.
By the middle point of the book, I was in love with the characters. Since I listened on Audible, I want to point out that the narrator did a wonderful job and I enjoyed not having to hear a bunch of sound effects in addition to the characters speaking. Each character's voice and persona felt like their own. I really appreciate that as a reader because it helps me better picture and identify each character throughout the story, but it's also just more fun to listen to. Unless it's done badly, in which case it's a waste of time and money for all involved. Thankfully, that wasn't the situation here. I would highly recommend the Audible version and I enjoyed listening while I diamond painted, but I think folks that like to read it would also enjoy it on a Kindle or in paperback format.
I'm going to give myself a few days to process everything that happened and then proceed to book 2.
September 6, 2020
The term "paradigm" is defined as "a typical example or pattern of something; a model." Robert certainly has shifted from his pattern and model of writing with this book; shifting from urban fantasy to science fiction. I was curious if he could pull it off. To get to the heart of the review: Robert has introduced his readers to a great new series. I knew Robert excelled in character development, due to what has has done with the Sentinels of Creation series. What took me by surprised was how much I ended up liking this very diverse group of characters. He has created a rich tapestry for future writing. The science fiction is solid and I look forward to the next book expanding on the ideas introduced. Building on the wonders of other different worlds with different views and approaches to life. Robert's stories are always enjoyable, and this book is no exception. I am actually looking forward to the second book in this series more than the next book in the Sentinel's series. That is high praise. There are many directions the next book can go, diving deeply into that which only science fiction can offer. I am looking forward to taking that ride into the future with this cast of character.
September 14, 2021
I never "read" this book but just listened to Nick Podehl's very talented reading. This book has the "campy" feel of the original Star Treks with non-stop action feel of one of the new Star Trek movies, really strikes well a balance between sci-fi technology explorations, action scenes, and character dialogue. What I enjoy most is the 10+ great individual characters that form the crew of the ship made to save humanity thing. What might read for other reviewers as being a jerk, in the listen--to me--was a lot of playful banter, and this is how I took the Captain's dialogue, even if Misha/Measha (the security officer) is often off-the-charts in also talking rudely; yet she's also quite endearing in her loyalty and her soft-spot for kids. There are also a lot of other characters who are almost always sincere and kind and this includes the communications officer Lineya Sorenson, First Officer Keung and his daughter AnQi, and the medical doctor Rick Carpenter. (Sorry if spellings are off; as I said, I've only listened to the book, 2 or 3x.) I'm really looking forward to listening to Book 2, released as an audiobook today!
January 3, 2024
A good story
When I bought this book I believed it was for teenagers. I would say teens and adults will enjoy it. The story was good. It was well thought out and well organized making this a good book. While listening to the story, listen to the story around or outside the main story. It is an interesting look on how this world really operates behind the scenes. Perhaps we should take a closer look at our world and wonder if something like this could really come to pass. I’m talking about the way the government acted in this book. Otherwise it was a good story and an interesting plot. I’m not going to ruin anything about the story for anyone. Though it is an interesting take on the lazarus tale.
When I bought this book I believed it was for teenagers. I would say teens and adults will enjoy it. The story was good. It was well thought out and well organized making this a good book. While listening to the story, listen to the story around or outside the main story. It is an interesting look on how this world really operates behind the scenes. Perhaps we should take a closer look at our world and wonder if something like this could really come to pass. I’m talking about the way the government acted in this book. Otherwise it was a good story and an interesting plot. I’m not going to ruin anything about the story for anyone. Though it is an interesting take on the lazarus tale.
October 16, 2021
I picked this title up when it was offered as a Daily Deal. I found this a fun book to listen to, excellently performed by Nick Podehl. Founded on a good story, the majority of the book is pulling the crew together to face the final challenge and the addition of each crew member is a fun adventure. The book contains lots of references to classic science fiction, and many laugh out loud moments. I need to check out more by this author too! Highly recommended.
March 2, 2022
I use ratings to decide which books I am going to buy, and I recently decided I am partially responsible for inflating the ratings on books. Either they were 5 star or 1 star. I decided to use the star rating more objectively as follows:
★★★★★ Great book! Can’t wait to read it again (and I will).
★★★★☆ Good book. I am glad I read this.
★★★☆☆ OK book. Nothing special but not bad.
★★☆☆☆ Not good. Why did I waste my time?
★☆☆☆☆ Lousy. I didn’t finish.
★★★★★ Great book! Can’t wait to read it again (and I will).
★★★★☆ Good book. I am glad I read this.
★★★☆☆ OK book. Nothing special but not bad.
★★☆☆☆ Not good. Why did I waste my time?
★☆☆☆☆ Lousy. I didn’t finish.
March 12, 2022
This is my favorite new series! Love the character development and the story is fun, gripping and fast paced. The banter between the crew makes you feel like you are part of the team - if you like snarky commentary. If not, you may not enjoy this. If you have read the Martian or Hail Mary you'll enjoy this book - don't get too caught up on the science parts as they may leave you wanting. I can overlook any discrepancies that might possibly exist.
November 1, 2021
I really enjoyed this Sci Fi ensemble case of a group from Earth who need to get up to speed about dealing with other alien species who've come to judge if we are worthy of continuing as a species. This audio book narrated by Nick Podehl is fantastic. Very few readers have the ability to switch so many vocal gears as seamlessly. The captain is one of my favorite characters.
January 1, 2022
As a long time sci-fi fan I'm used to threatening exploration, apocalypse, and battles in space. Ross's Paradigm series represents an emerging hopeful, expansive breed of sci-fi.
I love the blending of old school, classic and Star Trek references intermixed with his thought provoking social and ethical conversations.
I love the blending of old school, classic and Star Trek references intermixed with his thought provoking social and ethical conversations.
May 14, 2022
Wow wow WOW
I have been a reader since I was 12 and I am currently 53 and I have to say it "WOW" when Amazon started the Kindle program I was around but didn't want to buy a tablet just to read but when the app was revealed it's been a great reading journey and thank you to the authors who like this story has made reading so much more fun great book great story and thank you
I have been a reader since I was 12 and I am currently 53 and I have to say it "WOW" when Amazon started the Kindle program I was around but didn't want to buy a tablet just to read but when the app was revealed it's been a great reading journey and thank you to the authors who like this story has made reading so much more fun great book great story and thank you
September 7, 2020
I really liked this. The constant references of the previous SciFi popular lore, reminded me a lot of the Ready Player One, mixed with Ross' special magic. I really enjoyed this one. Nice final book of summer 2020.
November 2, 2025
this was a surprising find and a gem at that! not only was the story great, sll the high tech stuff, highly interesting plot, all the scifi geek references are awesome, but the narration nailed it. Really looking forward ro the next one. Get it!
January 3, 2026
Fair to middling sci-fi elevated a lot by terrific narration by Nick Podehl. Plot is good, but characters are grating. I'll probably try one more, but I doubt I can hang for the series because the characters are rubbing me the wrong way.
April 7, 2021
Loved it!
September 23, 2021
Very enjoyable, great characters, lots of humor and 80s references. Good story.
October 2, 2021
Such fun to read with lots of homage to other authors.
February 1, 2022
fun series, looking for to continuing it.
Did Not Finish
February 20, 2023DNF @ approx 25%.
June 2, 2023
Long, slow burn of building the team - not a lot more than that, and yet really dense with content, and a fun listen.
I'm moving right on to the next book!
I'm moving right on to the next book!
September 1, 2024
Love the author, hated the main character.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews