The Sentinel

by T.M. Haviland

“Gripping work of speculative fiction. Both eye opening and startling." -reader

"As we begin to dip our toe into the deep waters of space, The Sentinel is a reminder that the laws of nature are indifferent to life and competition is a cold rule of the game that we should heed." - TM Haviland, Amazon top 100 best selling author

The year is 2124. Jonathan and his mining team in Antarctica discover an unusual object over a mile and a half beneath the surface. At first, they think it might be the remains of a meteor but, when they discover subtle but sentient behaviors, they must consider the possibility that this is the work of an alien technology. Backed by a consortium of countries developing Mars, Commander Rousseau and her engineers discover a similar object and soon international governments, big business, and the world of science are fighting over the correct actions to take. Their decision will affect the future of humankind forever.

Genres: Science Fiction, Fiction

332 pages, Paperback

Published June 30, 2021

About the author

Thomas Haviland is an Amazon top 100 best selling author focusing in the areas of speculative and science fiction. In his writings he explores the forces of nature, evolution of humankind, and the metaphysical questions around human existence in the universe. He is an early morning writer and night-time amateur music composer with degrees in applied physics, quantitative finance, and immersive studies in German. Authors he enjoys are: Frank Herbert, Niall Ferguson, Robert Harris, George Friedman, Jared Diamond, and Plato.

Follow Thomas on Twitter for new releases.
twitter.com/tmhaviland

Reviews

[Montzalee Wittmann · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great creepy sci-fi mystery!

The Sentinel
By T.M. Haviland
I love stories where something is found and history is changed or our world view is changed. This has this kind of vibe. It's telling of a dig in the Antarctica and one on Mars. One couple is separate but able to communicate with each other and each working on separate digs.
The one in Antarctica finds something so hard and so deep, it's millions of years old! When they finally get to it and study it, they are shocked what they find! It responds to human presence! Then, Mars finds one!
Great plot, characters, and world building!
It's intriguing and exciting! I found it a real page turner! I love these books but this book sounded like something that could really happen! The reaction from the nations, especially our government was so spot on! No brains, just do! Ugh!
I won this book from Goodreads Giveaway! I am so glad I did! Thanks!

[E · Rating 5 out of 5]

As Earth’s natural resources are depleted other sources will be sought out, whether on unexplored parts of Earth or beyond. This story teaches us a lesson as well as being a great read. Antarctica holds untold riches both in natural resources such as minerals and could very well answer a lot of questions about our evolution. The Endurance Project seeks to find all the answers. One thing that they didn’t count on finding is a monolith buried thousands of feet below the ice. How did it get there and how long has it been buried? More importantly what is it doing there? As scientist try to probe the monolith they soon discover it can’t possibly be from Earth. On Mars they find another monolith while searching for more resources. Are the monoliths a threat and if so what can they do about it? As a lover of good sci-fi, the facts presented in this story seem plausible. The characters are relatable and complex and depict possible real life scenarios. I would love to see this story made into a film. There are a few twists and turns and surprises that make for an interesting read. I highly recommend this book to sci-fi fans and anyone interested in the fate of our planet. There are lessons to be learned!

I won this e-book on Goodreads.com

[Hex · Rating 1 out of 5]

This story moves forward about as slow as a herd of turtles stampeding through peanut butter. What an unbelievable slog to get through.

Literally nothing of note happens for the first 65%.

Half of that amount is filled with all kinds of random and completely irrelevant things happening to the bunch of cardboard characters we follow. From drinking coffee and descriptions of how someone holds their coffee cup, to time off and holidays.

The other half constists of said characters talking to eachother about what obviously is alien technology. Obvious to anyone besides them, that is, because these boneheads simply ignore even the slightest possibility that it could be alien technology, right up until the point where the plot requires them understand that it is in fact, exactly that.

And not only that, but all of a sudden they understand -what- the device is for, through sheer guesswork and accepting that guess as fact, I reckon, because there was no plausible, let alone scientific explanation for any of it. The author knew, of course, and he told us this way.

Then we get a chapter with person A telling person B it's alien technology. Then another chapter with person B telling person C it's alien technology. Then person C tells person D.. well, you get the idea. All the while you as a reader already knew, right from the get-go. Yawn.

There is zero drama (political or otherwise), no tension, no action, no adventure, not even romance, despite the attempt. Quite a feat to pull off with so much possibilities for all of that at your disposal.

When nearing the end, with around 35 pages or so to go, the author pulls a rabbit out of his hat and stuff actually happens. That action is short-lived however, and the book moves forward with following probably the least likeable character of the book on some kind of trip to find the woman he loves.

The ending is open, probably to entice the reader to read the second book, when and if it releases. NO thank you, I'll pass.

The fact that the device was found both on Mars and Antarctica at the same time is near impossible.

The fact that everyone got (rightfully) very spooked about the device when trying to access it at some point in the book and scientists come up with the stupidest of stupid ideas to do exactly the same to the device on Mars as they did on Earth, just "to see if it's the same device" is completely inane.

But I'm willing to ignore and suspend my disbelief at such things, if it helps me to enjoy the story.

What I can't ignore is a boring book, and that's exactly what this is.

Meh.

[Jan R. · Rating 4 out of 5]

When I picked up The Sentinel, I wasn't sure what to expect. What I found was a plausible story of 'what if', that was grounded in reality and an insight into human/organizational behavior. As a longtime reader of SciFi, I have found that it has devolved into more fantasy than not. This wasn't that. When strange object(s) are discovered, the race to figure it out/contain it reads true. The pace of the book was perfect. The beginning of the book laid a good foundation to launch the story. Haviland shines in building that suspense without the 'gotcha' twists that are so common these days. The female protagonists were well written and I appreciated the lack of sexist descriptions that are so common in this genre. The authors descriptions of events and scenery and the science involved were VERY well done and brought the story to life. I really could visualize this as a movie. My only quibble was sometimes the dialog didn't ring true. Anyway, well done, Mr. Haviland. Can't wait for the next one!

[Charles Jr. · Rating 3 out of 5]

Author Haviland's SF epic happens in the year 2124, after corporate interests, having extracted every last resource from the developed world, turn to the only untouched continent - Antarctica, supposedly protected under shared international treaty, but an inevitable lure for exploitation.

Entrepreneur Jonathan De Clare has a team scanning the ice for anything of interest utilizing an AI-analysis scanner called ADESA when the software detects surprises under the ice; one is an intact pterosaur fossil skeleton - and the other is an obelisk, declared about three-fourths the size of the Washington Monument, millions of years old and seemingly impenetrable. Subtle heat pulses indicate it is a machine and is still functioning. It seems to take a while for the brainy folk here to conclude the monolith is alien-built (evidently the future does not have cheesy "ancient astronauts" shows on cable TV), but the theory is confirmed by another ADESA scan - on Mars - finding a very similar obelisk.

The two incredible artifacts spur worldwide interest and cloistered competition for what secrets they contain, including possible weapons applications. While a few idealistic scientists expect the Antarctic "Sentinel" to usher a glorious new age of awareness, De Clare proceeds on a ruthless path to make a profit for his shareholders. Of course, SF readers well know that "The Sentinel" was also the title of the 1951 Arthur C. Clarke short story that inspired 2001: A Space Odyssey, essentials of which are utterly subverted here.

Clarke's vision was one of enduring optimism over the human spirit and scientific progress enabling First Contact; Haviland's is of greed, fear, power-lust and shortsightedness bringing disaster to Homo sapiens, a species from whom the unimaginably distant, unknown "Creators" behind the Sentinels apparently expected no good. And they were right, as the straightforward plotting (never excessively technical, a pitfall with much hard SF) makes its way towards the fairly foregone conclusion with grim logic.

[L.L. Lily · Rating 4 out of 5]

Amazon Review and Instagram Headline: I can see this book adapted into a movie!

Rating: 4/5

Review:
I received an ARC copy of this book and this is my review of T.M Haviland's "The Sentinel"

If you like movies like the Terminator Series, The Martian, and F.R.E.D.I. you might like this one. It is unique in a way that all the events that take place in this story sounds believable and maybe even plausible to happen in real life (which if it is, it is both eye opening and startling). I could definitely see this adapted into a movie as it had a movie-like feel to it and it's very intriguing. I also liked the romantic subplots and strongly believe the author could venture into the romance genre, maybe even write a standalone novel following some of the couples mentioned in this story. Overall, I enjoyed reading this book and would definitely recommend it to other readers.

[Nolia Brandt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Some readers, like myself, may not be drawn to science fiction. But what if that science fiction is descriptive of society and relationships as they exist today, read in the manner of a retrospective documentary? It is easy, through the fine motion detail in the paragraphs of this book, to visualize walking down hallways, into underground areas, on space flights, and surviving a trek across grueling terrains. The Sentinel narrative rolls through the mind as if on screen.
The Sentinel by T.M. Haviland could be used as a training manual on world politics, corporate morality and behavior, and surprises that can happen when we fail to foresee the unintended consequences of our actions. The author’s grasp on so many aspects of how our civilization is organized and run, told in a way that is easy to comprehend, are two of the best reasons for reading this book.

[Pam · Rating 4 out of 5]

I give this book 4 stars. I would say 4.5, except for the fact that it shares some major characteristics with Arthur C. Clarke's '2001: A Space Odyssey', which was based on Clarke's short story, 'The Sentinel'. Not only the short story title, but more significantly, the black monoliths. Apart from that, the story takes off on its own, with a premise that is different from the usual. The aliens in this one have been thinking far ahead, and they worry about civilizations competing with them, so they put 'sentinels' in place to watch for signs. Of course, we get one, even though it has been there for over 100 million years or so, maybe. The characters are good, the story is fast-paced, there is never a dull moment. It is well-written and kinda leaves the possibility open for a 2nd book (I hope!). Really good read, I couldn't put it down.

[Kayla · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐️

Wonderful book! I thoroughly enjoyed the journey and the artful way the author distilled complex subjects into easy-to-understand paragraphs. It took me a while to get used to the flow of the book; it seemed a little disjointed at first, with large passages of time passing quickly. The experience was a bit like reading a play, where you get a sort of detached bird’s eye view of a scene even while following a particular character’s POV. Once I reached the end and gave a bit of thought to these initial notes, I realized this still of sharing information almost vibes well with the book. With the inconsequential impact of humans on a broader level. I’m highly anticipating Haviland’s next book in late 2022.

[Rob Morton · Rating 4 out of 5]

Bring On the Next Book!

When I read, I dislike “stupid” characters who get faced with an unknown and messes with it and sees it as a threat instead of letting “smarter”people study it and if they learn nothing about it, they leave it alone.

That’s not what they did and while the actions by key characters were predictable - you just knew something bad was going to happen - I didn’t see most of humanity being eradicated coming. This book speaks to mankind’s destructive and tribal behaviors and how they really screwed up and a lesson we need to,learn in real,life… just in case we’re being watched by a Sentinel.

This is a good read and now I wanna know what the Sentinel on Mars is going to do… and what humanity does after the events of this book!

[Christy · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fabulous sci-fi read from a new author. I enjoyed the character building and the story between Earth and Mars discoveries. An interesting take on the future search for resources as traditional sources are depleted. Unfortunately it highlights the typical way humans react to anything unknown, especially an alien discovery. An exciting and entertaining read for sure.

I look forward to reading more from this author.

#goodreadsgiveaway

[Julie Kirkwood · Rating 4 out of 5]

This sci-fi plot seems eerily feasible. I can totally see a scenario in which earth runs out of resources. We humans often think of ourselves as the supreme beings in the universe but this book questions that. Maybe we aren't so advanced afterall! If this plot does come true some day, I hope we earthlings are shown a little bit of mercy then too, even if it is just luck.

[Virginia · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The Sentinel was an engaging and enjoyable read, filled with compelling characters and a story that kept me hooked from start to finish. The writing was immersive, and I loved the way it made me feel completely transported into its world!

[David M. · Rating 2 out of 5]

Glacial

It seems appropriate to have a lot of the story take place in Antarctica because the pace of the story is glacial. I am aware that the book is science fiction, but the ending is not realistic.

[Robert · Rating 5 out of 5]

It started off a little slow, but really developed into an intriguing science fiction mystery. It had some similar alien concerns that "A Peacemaker's Code" had. The characters, the agencies, and governmental involvement had a very realistic feel. I'd like to see a follow-on to this story.

[Carolyn F. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good story, not very strong science

Characters were sketched rather than developed, science was not thorough or even accurate. Could get better with subsequent books. I will try the next one before giving up

[Norma G Chenevert · Rating 4 out of 5]

Predictable

Right from discovery you know it is going to turn out bad for humanity. Good character development with lots of science but never really gets to create an sense of adventure with regard to finding a buried mystery

[Beth Ann Garcia · Rating 3 out of 5]

Provocative sci fi novel suggesting ancient alien keepers watching over Earth's civilization and technological progress. Ending was not quite a cliff hanger but leaves you wanting the next installment.

I wished the characters were more in depth and had more of a presence during the story.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Opening a Jack Reacher book is like meeting an old friend on the street Hadn’t read one in a few years and I was pleasantly surprised at how good it was More like the earlier books in the series Going to be looking for some of the series books I’ve missed

[Ramon A Carabeo · Rating 5 out of 5]

A new voice in Speculative Fiction! worth reading material

A new voice, new old questions , well written and with lots of what if …makes you think, I hope if this ever happens we will be prepared

[Robert Knudsen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very much enjoyed it

Totally enjoyed, the story was well written and I loved the characters as for the ending I was hoping things would have been left alone but leave it to man to screw it up

[Mark D · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good read.

I rate this as a good read. Interesting characters and a very thoughtful idea of what can happen. Really needs a follow up book(s).

[Jeff Tix · Rating 4 out of 5]

A bit slow...

...but with intriguing ideas. Will read the next one for sure. I have to know the next step for the main theory.

[Chris · Rating 4 out of 5]

I won this in a goodreads.com giveaway.

A solid start to an intriguing sci-fi adventure.

[Björn Bengtsson · Rating 2 out of 5]

Boring and predictable.