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Destiny's Crucible #7
A Dubious Peace
A planet’s future is about to take a dramatic turnJoseph Colsco, Mark Caldwell, and Heather Chen. Cast away by aliens onto a planet inhabited by humans transplanted there by a second alien race thousands of years in the past and for reasons unknown. Each of the three found themselves left naked on beaches scattered across the planet Anyar. Each struggled to survive as strangers amidst humans with technology centuries behind Earth’s. Each lived through years of adjustments, trials, dangers, and new lives beyond anything they could have imagined—or feared. The aliens who left them to fend for themselves wanted them far enough apart so they would never meet, assuming that as individuals they would have no impact on Anyar’s civilizations. Only now they have come together, and nothing will ever be the same.Maps of Anyar are available for viewing and downloading at olanthorensen.com
24 pages, Audible Audio
229 people are currently reading
149 people want to read
About the author
Olan Thorensen
16 books526 followersOlan is a long-time science fiction fan who has jumped into independent publication with all its pitfalls and unknowns. He thinks all colors go together: clash, what clash? A fan of Dilbert, Non Sequitur, Peanuts (even if old strips), and still think the end of The Far Side was a tragedy. Loves fireflies, rain, thunderstorms, is eclectic in music (classical, western, oldies, smattering of all other), and thinks four seasons are better than one. Gardens, plays piano poorly, used to jog until broke hip, now walks (to be honest, his jog was about as fast as his quick walk).
A sampling of favorite movies include Avatar, Master and Commander, The Last Mimsy, Six Days and Seven Nights, Aliens, Jumanji, The Big Short, Trading Places, World War Z, and A Miracle on 34th Street (original). If you can figure out a common theme, let Olan know. :>)
Born in Louisiana, but mainly grew up in a less populated part of Northern California. Played football in high school but did minimum studying so as not to interfere with his reading novels. Ironic is that he studiously avoided learning things like details of grammar and good writing. He knows how ironic that is now.
Worked as a forest firefighter several summers. In his youth, served in the US Special Forces (one year in Vietnam; SOG, running recon patrols in Laos and the DMZ). Attended university before and after the Army. Has a Phd in Genetics, with around 200 science publications as author and co-author on genetics, molecular biology, and bioinformatics, and is a Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS). Worked with people with all the education and no common sense and knows people with little education and a world of smarts.
Retired now in the Blue Ridge country of Virginia and has time to pursue his avocation of writing books – mainly science fiction plus one police/action/character book writing as Kelsey Robicheaux. Thinks it's totally cool someone can read his stories and enjoy them. Loves hearing from readers from all parts of the US and international (his favorite of the latter was from Nepal).
His web page is olanthorensen.com, which has news updates, an occasion blog posting, and downloadable maps (by clicking on them) to help orient readers to the planet Anyar (highly recommended). He’s on Facebook, which also has maps, reader/listener comments, and his responses. He can be emailed at olanthorensen@gmail.com. He reads all emails, though he may not be able to respond to them all. Readers can request to be on a mailing list for news of releases. Advantages of the mail list also include Christmas short stories, new maps, and a coming novella not otherwise available elsewhere.
A sampling of favorite movies include Avatar, Master and Commander, The Last Mimsy, Six Days and Seven Nights, Aliens, Jumanji, The Big Short, Trading Places, World War Z, and A Miracle on 34th Street (original). If you can figure out a common theme, let Olan know. :>)
Born in Louisiana, but mainly grew up in a less populated part of Northern California. Played football in high school but did minimum studying so as not to interfere with his reading novels. Ironic is that he studiously avoided learning things like details of grammar and good writing. He knows how ironic that is now.
Worked as a forest firefighter several summers. In his youth, served in the US Special Forces (one year in Vietnam; SOG, running recon patrols in Laos and the DMZ). Attended university before and after the Army. Has a Phd in Genetics, with around 200 science publications as author and co-author on genetics, molecular biology, and bioinformatics, and is a Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS). Worked with people with all the education and no common sense and knows people with little education and a world of smarts.
Retired now in the Blue Ridge country of Virginia and has time to pursue his avocation of writing books – mainly science fiction plus one police/action/character book writing as Kelsey Robicheaux. Thinks it's totally cool someone can read his stories and enjoy them. Loves hearing from readers from all parts of the US and international (his favorite of the latter was from Nepal).
His web page is olanthorensen.com, which has news updates, an occasion blog posting, and downloadable maps (by clicking on them) to help orient readers to the planet Anyar (highly recommended). He’s on Facebook, which also has maps, reader/listener comments, and his responses. He can be emailed at olanthorensen@gmail.com. He reads all emails, though he may not be able to respond to them all. Readers can request to be on a mailing list for news of releases. Advantages of the mail list also include Christmas short stories, new maps, and a coming novella not otherwise available elsewhere.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
May 11, 2021
Very good and quite entertaining, but a clear new storyline starting point and lacking the intensity of the best in the series (especially Pen and the Sword and Forged in Fire).
Looking forward to the next series book which has a high potential based on the setup in this one.
Looking forward to the next series book which has a high potential based on the setup in this one.
July 26, 2021
This is book #7 of a very solid portal Fantasy. This installment is a return to form, after a couple wobblers that were less great. I burned through this in 3days, if I had it to do over I'd have made it last longer.
This felt like the tightest book of the series like the author and his editor were "game on!". The author may not be the king of the info dumpers but he is a member of the Court. The reason I embrace the info dumps is because the Author is making Chemistry and Engineering sexy and I believe that is to the good.
This felt like the tightest book of the series like the author and his editor were "game on!". The author may not be the king of the info dumpers but he is a member of the Court. The reason I embrace the info dumps is because the Author is making Chemistry and Engineering sexy and I believe that is to the good.
May 13, 2021
A Great Setup for a Global conflict
So begins another saga in the world of Anyar. For those thinking it too slow, it's just necessary to setup the global, even interplanetary, drama sure to follow. Raising a glass to you, Olan.
So begins another saga in the world of Anyar. For those thinking it too slow, it's just necessary to setup the global, even interplanetary, drama sure to follow. Raising a glass to you, Olan.
May 9, 2021
Talk about a cliffhanger!
I enjoyed this book in the series. I got a bit annoyed at the constant re explanations of people & events that occurred in previous books. It seemed like filler. The story itself was great. I really love this series of books & can't wait for the next one. Hell Yoseph might end up sailing an atom bomb to a distant port.
I enjoyed this book in the series. I got a bit annoyed at the constant re explanations of people & events that occurred in previous books. It seemed like filler. The story itself was great. I really love this series of books & can't wait for the next one. Hell Yoseph might end up sailing an atom bomb to a distant port.
May 26, 2024
"A Dubious Peace," the 7th installment in Olan Thorensen's Destiny's Crucible series, is a testament to the author's ability to weave intricate narratives that captivate and engage the listener. Narrated by the talented Jonathan Davis, this audiobook takes us on a journey through the planet Anyar, where the fates of Joseph Colsco, Mark Caldwell, and Heather Chen intertwine in a saga of survival, adaptation, and the human spirit.
**The World of Anyar**
Thorensen's world-building is nothing short of remarkable. Anyar is a planet rich with history, culture, and a level of technological development that feels both alien and familiar. The author's attention to detail paints a vivid picture of this world, making it easy for listeners to immerse themselves in the setting. The maps of Anyar, available on Thorensen's website, serve as a valuable companion to the narrative, allowing listeners to track the characters' journeys across the planet.
**Character Development**
The strength of "A Dubious Peace" lies in its character development. Thorensen has a gift for creating multi-dimensional characters that are relatable and complex. Joseph, Mark, and Heather are not mere survivors; they are pioneers in a world that challenges their Earth-born sensibilities. Their individual stories of struggle, growth, and resilience are interwoven seamlessly, providing a rich tapestry of human experience.
**Narrative and Pacing**
Jonathan Davis's narration brings the story to life with his clear and engaging delivery. His ability to distinguish between characters through subtle changes in tone and inflection adds depth to the listening experience. The pacing of the narrative is deliberate, allowing the listener to absorb the intricacies of the plot without feeling rushed.
**Themes and Messages**
At its core, "A Dubious Peace" explores themes of destiny, choice, and the impact of individuals on the course of history. The book challenges the notion that a single person cannot make a difference, showcasing how the combined efforts of Joseph, Mark, and Heather begin to shape the future of Anyar. It's a powerful message that resonates with the listener, encouraging reflection on one's own potential to effect change.
**Conclusion**
"A Dubious Peace" is a compelling addition to the Destiny's Crucible series. Olan Thorensen's storytelling, combined with Jonathan Davis's narration, creates an audiobook experience that is both thought-provoking and entertaining. While the book may be part of a series, it stands on its own as a complete story, making it accessible to new listeners as well as long-time fans. For those seeking a science fiction adventure that delves into the depths of human potential, "A Dubious Peace" is a journey worth taking.
**The World of Anyar**
Thorensen's world-building is nothing short of remarkable. Anyar is a planet rich with history, culture, and a level of technological development that feels both alien and familiar. The author's attention to detail paints a vivid picture of this world, making it easy for listeners to immerse themselves in the setting. The maps of Anyar, available on Thorensen's website, serve as a valuable companion to the narrative, allowing listeners to track the characters' journeys across the planet.
**Character Development**
The strength of "A Dubious Peace" lies in its character development. Thorensen has a gift for creating multi-dimensional characters that are relatable and complex. Joseph, Mark, and Heather are not mere survivors; they are pioneers in a world that challenges their Earth-born sensibilities. Their individual stories of struggle, growth, and resilience are interwoven seamlessly, providing a rich tapestry of human experience.
**Narrative and Pacing**
Jonathan Davis's narration brings the story to life with his clear and engaging delivery. His ability to distinguish between characters through subtle changes in tone and inflection adds depth to the listening experience. The pacing of the narrative is deliberate, allowing the listener to absorb the intricacies of the plot without feeling rushed.
**Themes and Messages**
At its core, "A Dubious Peace" explores themes of destiny, choice, and the impact of individuals on the course of history. The book challenges the notion that a single person cannot make a difference, showcasing how the combined efforts of Joseph, Mark, and Heather begin to shape the future of Anyar. It's a powerful message that resonates with the listener, encouraging reflection on one's own potential to effect change.
**Conclusion**
"A Dubious Peace" is a compelling addition to the Destiny's Crucible series. Olan Thorensen's storytelling, combined with Jonathan Davis's narration, creates an audiobook experience that is both thought-provoking and entertaining. While the book may be part of a series, it stands on its own as a complete story, making it accessible to new listeners as well as long-time fans. For those seeking a science fiction adventure that delves into the depths of human potential, "A Dubious Peace" is a journey worth taking.
May 9, 2021
Very much the beginning of a new/wider story arc, just not as compelling as those that came before.
That being said, all the things you enjoyed up to this point are found within. The characters are fun and the civilisation uplift angle which likely brought most of us to this series is still predominate.
Some progression, which is all good, but limited in actual consequence bar the last quarter of the book; though such is left for later books to explain. I mean steam engines.. please just give us actual trains, you talk about it for a whole book.. just trains on rails now.. please.
So overall it feels like a transition. Linking past events to the next stage. It means there is a lot of needed dialog to establish new relationships and such like; though many might find it a bit superfluous.
Unfortunately the depth of detail (which I normally enjoy) seem to impact the pacing a bit this time around. I mean it's cool that you've taught me to smelt iron but I would be interested in some movement in the wider story.
Yet I still like it, and if you have reached book 7 you will probably like it too.
So feel free to ignore my nitpicking and dive in.
That being said, all the things you enjoyed up to this point are found within. The characters are fun and the civilisation uplift angle which likely brought most of us to this series is still predominate.
Some progression, which is all good, but limited in actual consequence bar the last quarter of the book; though such is left for later books to explain. I mean steam engines.. please just give us actual trains, you talk about it for a whole book.. just trains on rails now.. please.
So overall it feels like a transition. Linking past events to the next stage. It means there is a lot of needed dialog to establish new relationships and such like; though many might find it a bit superfluous.
Unfortunately the depth of detail (which I normally enjoy) seem to impact the pacing a bit this time around. I mean it's cool that you've taught me to smelt iron but I would be interested in some movement in the wider story.
Yet I still like it, and if you have reached book 7 you will probably like it too.
So feel free to ignore my nitpicking and dive in.
May 11, 2021
When I finished this book I felt great. We were back on Anyar and another impossible challenge sat before us. Five stars, right? Well...
I must admit, I skimmed close to 50% of the text. I've seen series disappear into their own navel before, (E.g. Flint's Assiti Shards). An author falls in love with the complexity of their creation and wants to show every detail of their research and imagination, forgetting to focus on the story. Throensen managed to find a story by the end but there were a LOT of unnecessary explanations of engineering processes. It bogged the story down.
The perfect mix of character/plot/setting is subjective. I simply felt this book skewed too far on one axis. Don't get me wrong, I'm still on board. Maybe if the author skips a few technical manuals, we'll get the next book a little sooner.
I must admit, I skimmed close to 50% of the text. I've seen series disappear into their own navel before, (E.g. Flint's Assiti Shards). An author falls in love with the complexity of their creation and wants to show every detail of their research and imagination, forgetting to focus on the story. Throensen managed to find a story by the end but there were a LOT of unnecessary explanations of engineering processes. It bogged the story down.
The perfect mix of character/plot/setting is subjective. I simply felt this book skewed too far on one axis. Don't get me wrong, I'm still on board. Maybe if the author skips a few technical manuals, we'll get the next book a little sooner.
June 24, 2021
Great book - Not for everyone, but I enjoyed.
I thought this was a very good book.
As other reviewers have stated, the book is filled with the day to day lives of our main 2 characters (Yosef & Mark). It focuses more on Yosef, a moderate amount on Mark and very little on Heather. The book is filled with politics and there is a good amount of character development for the main characters. All in all, I liked the book - some may find it slow and boring but I think it is necessary to get through to build up to the next book in the series. Without spoiling anything, it sets up a very high expectation for the next book, with a focus outside of Cadellium. I will be eagerly awaiting the next installment.
I thought this was a very good book.
As other reviewers have stated, the book is filled with the day to day lives of our main 2 characters (Yosef & Mark). It focuses more on Yosef, a moderate amount on Mark and very little on Heather. The book is filled with politics and there is a good amount of character development for the main characters. All in all, I liked the book - some may find it slow and boring but I think it is necessary to get through to build up to the next book in the series. Without spoiling anything, it sets up a very high expectation for the next book, with a focus outside of Cadellium. I will be eagerly awaiting the next installment.
May 29, 2022
Well Worth the Wait!!!!
I had been waiting almost two years for the chronicles of Yosef and the other terrans, four by last count, to be continued. From chapter one forward I was totally engaged as will others familiar with this series will be. The first meeting between Yosef and his compatriots set the tone for the entire book. After they come to accept that they are indeed from the same world, taken at the same time, due to circumstances beyond their control. They also acknowledge that any chances of leaving this world are slim to none and that following Josef's lead is in all their best interests. Yes, it may remind you of David Webber's series of books. Just remember in that series humans deliberately rejected and discouraged advancing technology. Yes because people and nations with their own interests are involved; I invite you to read and enjoy as much as I did. Nuff said!!
I had been waiting almost two years for the chronicles of Yosef and the other terrans, four by last count, to be continued. From chapter one forward I was totally engaged as will others familiar with this series will be. The first meeting between Yosef and his compatriots set the tone for the entire book. After they come to accept that they are indeed from the same world, taken at the same time, due to circumstances beyond their control. They also acknowledge that any chances of leaving this world are slim to none and that following Josef's lead is in all their best interests. Yes, it may remind you of David Webber's series of books. Just remember in that series humans deliberately rejected and discouraged advancing technology. Yes because people and nations with their own interests are involved; I invite you to read and enjoy as much as I did. Nuff said!!
August 3, 2021
4-1/2 stars rounded up
I wanted to love this book, but I couldn't. The plot seemed to drag at times. I understand this book positions itself as a jumping off point. It just seemed to take forever to decide to take the leap. Hence 4 stars. The action was amazing and heart pounding as always. This author knows how to write a good fight. Hence 5 stars.
My main problem with this book was that a major character was annoying as heck. I really disliked them and they didn't get better. They also had the worst landing on the planet by far. It also bothered me that there was no one like this character throughout 6 books and they are portrayed as whinny and not bright. That sucked!! Olan needs to do better.
I wanted to love this book, but I couldn't. The plot seemed to drag at times. I understand this book positions itself as a jumping off point. It just seemed to take forever to decide to take the leap. Hence 4 stars. The action was amazing and heart pounding as always. This author knows how to write a good fight. Hence 5 stars.
My main problem with this book was that a major character was annoying as heck. I really disliked them and they didn't get better. They also had the worst landing on the planet by far. It also bothered me that there was no one like this character throughout 6 books and they are portrayed as whinny and not bright. That sucked!! Olan needs to do better.
March 9, 2022
Rating 2.0 stars - DNF
Got about 1/2 way through and got bored. Nothing happened. The 3 people from earth get together and instead of same grand life changing moments, things just kept on keeping on. Heather was pretty much non existent. Mark was mentioned a lot but him and Yosef seemed to have the same conversations over and over again. Instead of focusing on the fun parts of new inventions and ideas, the author decided to focus on the boring subtle minutia of experiments. The story was lost behind a whole lot of things I didn't care about, so I decided to just end it there. The series started out really well but the author started to focus on things that really didn't interest me.
Got about 1/2 way through and got bored. Nothing happened. The 3 people from earth get together and instead of same grand life changing moments, things just kept on keeping on. Heather was pretty much non existent. Mark was mentioned a lot but him and Yosef seemed to have the same conversations over and over again. Instead of focusing on the fun parts of new inventions and ideas, the author decided to focus on the boring subtle minutia of experiments. The story was lost behind a whole lot of things I didn't care about, so I decided to just end it there. The series started out really well but the author started to focus on things that really didn't interest me.
January 14, 2022
OK, finally we see all 3 earthlings have met up on Anyar and are able to thrive with the prestige and esteem Joseph has built up among the clangs of Kaedelim. This book is more scattered as the author builds up new relationships, deals between Joseph representing the island and the other realms on Anyar. I hope in the next book, we'll finally see more involvement with the AI who has been observing some of the events since it deposited the earthlings onto different and far-apart places on this planet.
May 8, 2021
Excellent continuation of the series! Great development of the additional survivors as they settle into their rolls alongside Joseph. Well thought out plot lines with lots of clues for both immediate and future events. Thank you Mr. Thorensen for another fascinating and exciting adventure on Anyar!
May 21, 2021
Very good!
Exciting! The run and chase scenes were well done. Will there be more in this series? Should be, the aliens haven't been heard of and how will the bad guys be attacked? Don't discount Heather, music can stir men's souls, if she comes up with a killer "best seller", it could make an impact.
Exciting! The run and chase scenes were well done. Will there be more in this series? Should be, the aliens haven't been heard of and how will the bad guys be attacked? Don't discount Heather, music can stir men's souls, if she comes up with a killer "best seller", it could make an impact.
June 27, 2022
This series is one of the most enjoyable ones I've listened to lately. I was playing the audiobook practically everywhere I went. I couldn't put it down. And, the fact that each book is has a good length to it meant I more than feel like I got my money worth from this series. Really hoping there's more to come.
August 10, 2022
The story is so slow... Too much filler arch that is not really relevant...
MC lost his innovative way... too slow in presenting new ideas...
Military improvements are so slow... They are at war but they are not preparing for more... The MC is hoping the they wont get attack soon... He has concrete but he is not creating bunkers or Star Forts in the important parts of the Island
MC lost his innovative way... too slow in presenting new ideas...
Military improvements are so slow... They are at war but they are not preparing for more... The MC is hoping the they wont get attack soon... He has concrete but he is not creating bunkers or Star Forts in the important parts of the Island
November 19, 2023
The book is full of activity but nothing happens and u don't care... as characters interactions are so bland... names of places and characters are told countless times but u only care of the bigger picture... and aliens... first 2 books were great... also the American culture gets boring by the end... like really boring...
May 8, 2021
Boring, for a book that took so long to write and for which I had a lot of expectations.
The action barely moves forward and beside 10% towards the end the rest of the book is so, so boring.
Big disappointment.
The action barely moves forward and beside 10% towards the end the rest of the book is so, so boring.
Big disappointment.
Read
May 9, 2021Excellent addition
one of the best authors. This novel was transitional and not as much action but very good nonetheless. Hate that I have to wait 6 months to continue this excellent story.
one of the best authors. This novel was transitional and not as much action but very good nonetheless. Hate that I have to wait 6 months to continue this excellent story.
May 9, 2021
Awesome. Beginning of something new
This is a good book. You shouldy read it. I like the story. The characters are fun. The book is a good read. i enjoyed it alot.. Download or buy it today. why not?
This is a good book. You shouldy read it. I like the story. The characters are fun. The book is a good read. i enjoyed it alot.. Download or buy it today. why not?
May 10, 2021
At last!!! Been waiting for this!
Olan Thorensen writes amazing books. Totally engrossing, totally enthralling. The storyline and characterization is outstanding. Well worth the wait
.
Olan Thorensen writes amazing books. Totally engrossing, totally enthralling. The storyline and characterization is outstanding. Well worth the wait
.
June 30, 2021
Keeps getting better.
Once again I have been drawn into this new world with old problems. I do not even mind the lost sleep reading into the night. Cannot wait for the next one and next etc.
Once again I have been drawn into this new world with old problems. I do not even mind the lost sleep reading into the night. Cannot wait for the next one and next etc.
August 13, 2021
Not as good as any of the first 4 books
This newest entry is not as focused as the first 4 books and is more of a setup novel. A greater sin is that too many times, I found myself skimming sections.
This newest entry is not as focused as the first 4 books and is more of a setup novel. A greater sin is that too many times, I found myself skimming sections.
August 26, 2021
The last third was good, the remainder drew out uninteresting parts to a painful degree. I really like the series, but this is the worst of the bunch. Apart from the novella. The novella is action-packed but with no character development, the opposite of this one.
October 28, 2021
Excellent Story Telling
Excellent read. I would recommend it for anyone although I usually prefer awaiting for a series to be concluded before starting it. I would ask that Olan's friends and family rattle his head untill some more of these fine stories fall out lol.
Excellent read. I would recommend it for anyone although I usually prefer awaiting for a series to be concluded before starting it. I would ask that Olan's friends and family rattle his head untill some more of these fine stories fall out lol.
November 9, 2021
Una serie que, aunque lenta, se dejaba leer bien, ha llegado a un punto en el que todo son preparativos para el siguiente libro… que estará lleno de preparativos para el siguiente. Aburrido, demasiado aburrido. C
December 31, 2021
The seventh volume in the series provides lots of slice-of-life, but not that much of plot advancement. It mostly explores the consequences of the previous book's last scene, an adaptation period and stuff, and some politics.
February 4, 2022
Interesting book
I have read all the books in the series and have enjoyed each one of them. The world building is well done and the characters are complex. I can’t wait for the next book.
I have read all the books in the series and have enjoyed each one of them. The world building is well done and the characters are complex. I can’t wait for the next book.
April 6, 2022
After finishing this book I was left wondering when the next will be available.
This has been an interesting twist on the subject of time travel combined with interstellar travel.
The entire series has been fun to read. The characters, with some exceptions, are relatable and appealing.
This has been an interesting twist on the subject of time travel combined with interstellar travel.
The entire series has been fun to read. The characters, with some exceptions, are relatable and appealing.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews