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Fall of the Core
A freelance reporter struggling to get into the 'big time'...
A rookie officer starting her career in public safety...
A cargo ship captain trying to outlive a terminal illness that has no cure...
A bounty hunter returning a long-hunted fugitive to Earth...
A terrible plague that threatens to destroy the human race...
The 25th century is not starting off very well.
"Fall of the Core" is a 150,000 word stand-alone novel in the Frontiers Saga Universe."
A rookie officer starting her career in public safety...
A cargo ship captain trying to outlive a terminal illness that has no cure...
A bounty hunter returning a long-hunted fugitive to Earth...
A terrible plague that threatens to destroy the human race...
The 25th century is not starting off very well.
"Fall of the Core" is a 150,000 word stand-alone novel in the Frontiers Saga Universe."
651 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 26, 2015
271 people are currently reading
369 people want to read
About the author
Ryk Brown
61 books857 followersBorn in 1960 and raised on an overdose of television, NASA, and science fiction, Ryk Brown has worked as a cook, rock guitarist, stage lighting technician, and paramedic. He currently resides in Northern California with his wife, daughter, and cat. By day he fixes computers, and by night he creates stories.
Having spent his entire life "thinking stuff up", the advent of digital publishing has finally given him an excuse to write it all down and share it with others. ("Others" meaning someone other than his poor wife and daughter.)
A long-time fan of all things science and space, his goal is to write and publish an on-going series of sci-fi adventures. To be set in his own version of humanity's future, his characters will explore the vast reaches of the galaxy, and perhaps even the universe. He invites you all to join him on this journey through his vivid imagination.
Having spent his entire life "thinking stuff up", the advent of digital publishing has finally given him an excuse to write it all down and share it with others. ("Others" meaning someone other than his poor wife and daughter.)
A long-time fan of all things science and space, his goal is to write and publish an on-going series of sci-fi adventures. To be set in his own version of humanity's future, his characters will explore the vast reaches of the galaxy, and perhaps even the universe. He invites you all to join him on this journey through his vivid imagination.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews
February 5, 2022
Fall of the Core by Ryk Brown, narrated by Jeffrey Kafer
It's the early days of the 25th century and we follow several groups of humans as they grapple with a virus that will kill off almost every human in existence. Even for the humans who are immune to the virus, life as they know it will be decimated, leaving them to die by the chaotic violence of the still living, starvation, or from eventually being reduced to living the horse and buggy days followed by being back to the days of the caveman. Bleak doesn't begin to define the future of humans.
We meet:
A freelance reporter, looking for the big story that will set her up for life and fame, who stumbles on information that alerts her to disturbing connections between two viruses. Then things get worse.
A crusty old cargo ship captain, with an incurable terminal illness, who uses space and the ability to spend decades in suspended animation, to hopefully allow him to live long enough for a cure to be found for his disease. This is his young pilot's first job and the ship captain
will be her backup since he knows all the tricks of his trade.
An idealistic rookie officer whose first days on the job shatter her vision of protecting the public by following what she learned in "cop school". When deadly violent mobs are attacking, the rule book goes out the window, despite the rookie's protests to her on the job trainer.
A bounty hunter who has spent thirty years (two not counting time spent in suspended animation) pursuing her big fish and catching him, only to find herself stymied by a plague that makes her chances of picking up her bounty very questionable. The very traits that make this woman someone you do not want to mess with also make her someone to follow when things fall apart.
I felt more than a little uncomfortable with this story when we've been living with our own real life virus problems. Things in this story are so out of control that they are unstoppable but each of the humans, mentioned above, try to deal with immediate and future problems as best as they can. There is no time to think but one wrong step can mean the end of each life and/or humanity.
Running at a narration time of fifteen hours and twenty one minutes, I enjoyed the story so much that the long running time seemed a breeze. I liked how the narrator handled the conversation parts of this Sci Fi thriller. He'd insert the "he said, she said" parts in a quieter voice, so you knew who said what but the flow of the actual conversations weren't hindered by the "he said, she said" insertions.
Pub date of audiobook: Jan 25th 2022
Thank you to Tantor Audio and NetGalley for this ARC.
It's the early days of the 25th century and we follow several groups of humans as they grapple with a virus that will kill off almost every human in existence. Even for the humans who are immune to the virus, life as they know it will be decimated, leaving them to die by the chaotic violence of the still living, starvation, or from eventually being reduced to living the horse and buggy days followed by being back to the days of the caveman. Bleak doesn't begin to define the future of humans.
We meet:
A freelance reporter, looking for the big story that will set her up for life and fame, who stumbles on information that alerts her to disturbing connections between two viruses. Then things get worse.
A crusty old cargo ship captain, with an incurable terminal illness, who uses space and the ability to spend decades in suspended animation, to hopefully allow him to live long enough for a cure to be found for his disease. This is his young pilot's first job and the ship captain
will be her backup since he knows all the tricks of his trade.
An idealistic rookie officer whose first days on the job shatter her vision of protecting the public by following what she learned in "cop school". When deadly violent mobs are attacking, the rule book goes out the window, despite the rookie's protests to her on the job trainer.
A bounty hunter who has spent thirty years (two not counting time spent in suspended animation) pursuing her big fish and catching him, only to find herself stymied by a plague that makes her chances of picking up her bounty very questionable. The very traits that make this woman someone you do not want to mess with also make her someone to follow when things fall apart.
I felt more than a little uncomfortable with this story when we've been living with our own real life virus problems. Things in this story are so out of control that they are unstoppable but each of the humans, mentioned above, try to deal with immediate and future problems as best as they can. There is no time to think but one wrong step can mean the end of each life and/or humanity.
Running at a narration time of fifteen hours and twenty one minutes, I enjoyed the story so much that the long running time seemed a breeze. I liked how the narrator handled the conversation parts of this Sci Fi thriller. He'd insert the "he said, she said" parts in a quieter voice, so you knew who said what but the flow of the actual conversations weren't hindered by the "he said, she said" insertions.
Pub date of audiobook: Jan 25th 2022
Thank you to Tantor Audio and NetGalley for this ARC.
June 24, 2022
When I started reading, I wasn’t sure what I was reading. But any book by Ryk Brown, I will read. The book started off slowly and I was somewhat confused. I kept expecting characters from prior series until I realized this story takes place prior to events in previous series. The confusion is my fault, not Ryk Brown’s. I was not paying attention.
I enjoyed the story of the biodigital plague. I got engrossed in the story and before I knew it the book ended. Hope there is more books coming as I have become fascinated with these new characters.
I read this as an audiobook downloaded from Audible. The audiobook was seventeen hours. Jeffrey Kafer does an excellent job narrating the story.
I enjoyed the story of the biodigital plague. I got engrossed in the story and before I knew it the book ended. Hope there is more books coming as I have become fascinated with these new characters.
I read this as an audiobook downloaded from Audible. The audiobook was seventeen hours. Jeffrey Kafer does an excellent job narrating the story.
February 3, 2022
In the twenty-fifth century, a plague capable of infecting both technology and people is at risk of eliminating the human race. We follow a freelance reporter wanting to make it to the big time, a new police officer, a cargo ship captain, and a bounty hunter returning the fugitive she has captured to Earth as they grapple with the changing universe and look for ways to survive.
Jeffrey Kafer did a fantastic job narrating this audiobook. This is a prequel to Brown’s Frontier’s Saga but can easily be read as a standalone. It definitely makes me want to check out that series! I loved that we got to see the crisis from such varying viewpoints, and each character’s story was engaging.
Many thanks to NetGalley for providing me an audio ARC of this book.
Jeffrey Kafer did a fantastic job narrating this audiobook. This is a prequel to Brown’s Frontier’s Saga but can easily be read as a standalone. It definitely makes me want to check out that series! I loved that we got to see the crisis from such varying viewpoints, and each character’s story was engaging.
Many thanks to NetGalley for providing me an audio ARC of this book.
July 18, 2015
Ah, hmm…, what I thought was a book, turned out to be a long short-story. I’ve written term papers longer than this “book”! I’m really surprised, too, because the author, Ryk Brown, has written a ton of really, really good stuff. His epic, “The Frontiers Saga”, has 13 books in the series and I don’t think it’s done yet! I don’t have a clue how this little story is supposed to fit in.
It involves two women at the beginning. Both appear to be bright and intelligent. They are in the news business. One is a “talking head” and the other is her producer. They have a videographer who shoots all their interviews. So, it’s a team of three trying to get into the big time with one big story.
They are interviewing a computer expert about a computer virus that’s running around Earth causing all sorts of problems. He tells them he’s confident they can stop it but it is taking time. They finish that interview, their videographer quits to go to greener pastures, but the two women have to press on. They have another “gig” lined up in Boston. So off on the mag-lev they go.
Now this is in the far, far future, I hope. Everyone or most everyone has been implanted with health nanites and augmented nural messaging devices. These messaging devices allow instant communication through thought just like sending an email. That’s how this two women usual converse during their interviews, passing non-verbal messages to each other so the one doing the interviews can ask reasonably intelligent questions and they can stay on topic.
I’m not going to write much more now. If I did, you’d have the entire story in just a few paragraphs! The author wrote just a little more, but not much. It’s a good interesting story-line that could and should be developed into a book. But, this effort is not a book. - The End -
It involves two women at the beginning. Both appear to be bright and intelligent. They are in the news business. One is a “talking head” and the other is her producer. They have a videographer who shoots all their interviews. So, it’s a team of three trying to get into the big time with one big story.
They are interviewing a computer expert about a computer virus that’s running around Earth causing all sorts of problems. He tells them he’s confident they can stop it but it is taking time. They finish that interview, their videographer quits to go to greener pastures, but the two women have to press on. They have another “gig” lined up in Boston. So off on the mag-lev they go.
Now this is in the far, far future, I hope. Everyone or most everyone has been implanted with health nanites and augmented nural messaging devices. These messaging devices allow instant communication through thought just like sending an email. That’s how this two women usual converse during their interviews, passing non-verbal messages to each other so the one doing the interviews can ask reasonably intelligent questions and they can stay on topic.
I’m not going to write much more now. If I did, you’d have the entire story in just a few paragraphs! The author wrote just a little more, but not much. It’s a good interesting story-line that could and should be developed into a book. But, this effort is not a book. - The End -
February 6, 2022
This is a sprawling sci-fi tale that follows three main characters. They are well developed and easy to relate with. The story itself has a novel premise with an interesting plot. I really couldn’t tell what was coming next for most of the story, though I did guess one element early on. The narration was okay, but not exceptional.
I rather enjoyed this book. It is a stand alone, which is nice in this age of the never ending story with multiple books and seventy eleven characters. The conclusion was not predictable and won’t satisfy everyone, though it did make sense to me.
Four and a half stars for Brown’s “Fall”. Listening to it over several days - it’s 15-1/3 hours long - was pleasant, though the story required some concentration. You’ll miss some things if your attention wanders. My thanks to Tantor Audio and Ryk Brown via Netgalley.
#FallOfTheCore #Netgalley #catsandbookstagram #catsandbooks #booksandcatstagram #booksandcats #ifcatscouldread #KindlesAllTheWayDown #KatzAllTheWayDown #TheFrontiersSaga
I rather enjoyed this book. It is a stand alone, which is nice in this age of the never ending story with multiple books and seventy eleven characters. The conclusion was not predictable and won’t satisfy everyone, though it did make sense to me.
Four and a half stars for Brown’s “Fall”. Listening to it over several days - it’s 15-1/3 hours long - was pleasant, though the story required some concentration. You’ll miss some things if your attention wanders. My thanks to Tantor Audio and Ryk Brown via Netgalley.
#FallOfTheCore #Netgalley #catsandbookstagram #catsandbooks #booksandcatstagram #booksandcats #ifcatscouldread #KindlesAllTheWayDown #KatzAllTheWayDown #TheFrontiersSaga
December 3, 2021
Not Bad … Not Bad at All !
Normally I don’t like books written about the past of a current storyline, but a few authors can pull it off & Rik is definitely one of those too.
Interesting read into how the bio digital plague started, good characters which you can relate to & just enough detail to show mankind would breakdown in a similar crisis without bogging you down.
However my interest in the story towards the end was starting to wain & I just kept thinking come on, come on, come on.
If your a fan of the series you will like this.
If you’ve not read the series with Nathan Scott, maybe start here first!?
Normally I don’t like books written about the past of a current storyline, but a few authors can pull it off & Rik is definitely one of those too.
Interesting read into how the bio digital plague started, good characters which you can relate to & just enough detail to show mankind would breakdown in a similar crisis without bogging you down.
However my interest in the story towards the end was starting to wain & I just kept thinking come on, come on, come on.
If your a fan of the series you will like this.
If you’ve not read the series with Nathan Scott, maybe start here first!?
February 14, 2016
Great Read
I have read the entire series so far and can't wait for more. Just finished a marathon read of the 2 Netcast books. It's 3am, and just finished. Could not stop.
Have you considered using your mailing list to use volunteers to proofread? The proofreader would have the benefit of reading before available and since they really understand the need for quality, would do a much better job. Just a thought, (sign me up).
I have read the entire series so far and can't wait for more. Just finished a marathon read of the 2 Netcast books. It's 3am, and just finished. Could not stop.
Have you considered using your mailing list to use volunteers to proofread? The proofreader would have the benefit of reading before available and since they really understand the need for quality, would do a much better job. Just a thought, (sign me up).
July 29, 2021
Probably his best book
In this book you get hints of the first series of books he wrote. Names and places are referenced that if you have been reading the series you will remember. The last place referenced has not been in his series that I recall so he may be setting a new series. Anyway it was good
In this book you get hints of the first series of books he wrote. Names and places are referenced that if you have been reading the series you will remember. The last place referenced has not been in his series that I recall so he may be setting a new series. Anyway it was good
February 28, 2022
Disaster and space sci-fi
When reading Ryk Brown's other work there are numerous historical references to a bio-digital plague that affected Earth and all core colonies. He has given us a book that tells that story from the perspective of a few survivors. This book can definitely be read as a stand alone and it is a good read.
When reading Ryk Brown's other work there are numerous historical references to a bio-digital plague that affected Earth and all core colonies. He has given us a book that tells that story from the perspective of a few survivors. This book can definitely be read as a stand alone and it is a good read.
September 20, 2017
If you’ve read Ryk Brown’s Frontiers saga, I would recommend you pick this one up to see where the author’s imagination takes us as to the origins of the bio digital plague. On the other hand, if you enjoy serialized science fiction short stories, I’d also recommend you get this one as Brown is a good storyteller. This one has a lot more dialogue between the characters than he does in his novels, almost with a different tone.
This only took about an hour to read, and was worth the 99 cent purchase price to me – I’m interested to read the next installment to see where the story turns and twists.
This only took about an hour to read, and was worth the 99 cent purchase price to me – I’m interested to read the next installment to see where the story turns and twists.
September 5, 2021
The Fall of the Core series is a collection of short stories from the Frontier Saga universe, serving as a prequel to the main books. This first installation was a very present surprise!
We’ve gone from the flying-around-in-space science fiction, to the future-on-earth kind. For such a short story, the world is established rather well. The build-up is plausible, and, knowing what we know is going to happen, there is a nice nerve going through the whole story.
Netcast Zero is a fun little short story, and, if the rest of these short stories continue in this groove, well worth reading as a universe-expanding addition to the Frontiers Saga books.
We’ve gone from the flying-around-in-space science fiction, to the future-on-earth kind. For such a short story, the world is established rather well. The build-up is plausible, and, knowing what we know is going to happen, there is a nice nerve going through the whole story.
Netcast Zero is a fun little short story, and, if the rest of these short stories continue in this groove, well worth reading as a universe-expanding addition to the Frontiers Saga books.
February 28, 2019
I very much enjoyed this fun and entertaining novella. I felt I could attach to the characters pretty quickly and liked the progression of the story line. I am currently in the process of reading Stephen King's The Gunslinger series and this was a nice quick break in between books. I plan on reading the other three Fall of the Core novellas (it kinda has that Terminator feeling to it, kinda but not really).
April 2, 2022
For anyone that is a fan of the Frontiers Saga Series, or has read any of the books, there is mention of the bio-digital plague that brought down the fall of humanity the thousand years earlier that led to not only trillions of people dying in the Core Worlds, but the mass exodus to outer systems as people fled to try and escape the plague.
Fall of the Core finally tells us the story of what happened during this time, told from the point of view of a young reporter and her producer friend, Hanna and Ari.
This is a futuristic world, one in which technology has advanced to the point that everyone has a neural implant, enabling them to be connected to the global network (In a way, like having a computer/phone directly in your brain), with a wireless internet connection.
Hanna has always dreamed of making it big and becoming one of the major reporters, but is currently stuck doing what she considers boring news articles. Her friend Ari is her producer, and finds these jobs so that they can both survive financially, and is also trying to get them noticed. It is whilst doing these pieces, that Hanna comes across information about a virus that is popping up all over the planet, in different, unrelated locations, and has no cure, the Klaria virus. This virus is affecting people biologically, and killing them. At the same time, a separate virus is also popping up called Twister, but this is affecting technology.
During a couple of her interviews, and whilst starting to look at things, Hanna makes the suggestion that these things could be linked, but is immediately shut down by everyone, until at one press conference, an ‘Unknown’ source contacts her, and tells her to ask the hard question of leading people, about whether these things are linked, and the risk to the population. Not only does this create an uproar, it puts her in the spotlight, and suddenly, without meaning to, she gets the role she has always wanted.
This is not the only story being told in this book though (and I don’t want to give away too many spoilers), but as things start to unfold across the planet, Ryk Brown provides us with the perspective of several other people as well.
Originally, this was actually a collection of short stories a while back, and this book is the culmination of those short stories, but Brown has added some additional material, and part of that is the additional perspective of these others. We not only get to see the continued story of Hanna, Ari and those with her, but also some of those that are in space onboard a starship as they are inbound to Earth from a long haul trip just as the outbreak occurs.
There are a couple of different characters we get to see their points of view of as things unfold on Earth, and it makes for a fascinating look at the events and situation from multiple perspectives as humanity tries to deal with the outbreak of this devastating plague.
The character work in this story is exceptional, each of Brown’s characters are incredibly authentic, you can feel the anxiety and panic that is emanating from them as things start to unravel and it is becoming apparent that this is much larger than they realise. Hanna’s initial youthful enthusiasm, and almost genuine naivety is captured so well, but is also tempered by Ari’s more grown-up attitude, and her understanding that they have to go a certain path to be able to survive. Both characters are captivating, and really bring the story to life.
The later characters (again, I don’t want to give spoilers), also are exceptionally well written, you really get this sense of urgency from them, there is this underlying fear about what is happening and just how big this is. For some, you can tell it is growing into something greater (like absolute terror), but for others, there is that controlled understanding of what needs to be done – professionalism – Brown captures these characters extraordinarily well.
One of the things that is done really well is the world building. Throughout this story, you get a real feel that you are in a future in which humanity has evolved into a society that is reliant on its technology, but that they are also incredibly advanced, having achieved a level of technological advancement well beyond our own. Brown has really thought about things, and captured the environment to make it realistic and let us immerse ourselves into this incredible world.
For those that have read the Frontiers Saga, this is a story that is a must read for every fan of the series as it provides so much background, providing an incredibly detailed account of the fall of humanity and what became known as the ‘Bio-Digital’ plague.
The great thing about this book though, is that if you haven’t read the Frontiers Saga, you can still read this as a standalone book about how two reporters stumble across the story of a lifetime, how they discover that what appears to be one very deadly virus, and another very dangerous technological virus are actually linked, and could actually mean the downfall of humanity.
This is a brilliant story, one that is totally captivating, and once you start reading, you just can’t put it down, as you get totally enthralled in what is happening. Must read for fans of the Frontiers Saga!!
Fall of the Core finally tells us the story of what happened during this time, told from the point of view of a young reporter and her producer friend, Hanna and Ari.
This is a futuristic world, one in which technology has advanced to the point that everyone has a neural implant, enabling them to be connected to the global network (In a way, like having a computer/phone directly in your brain), with a wireless internet connection.
Hanna has always dreamed of making it big and becoming one of the major reporters, but is currently stuck doing what she considers boring news articles. Her friend Ari is her producer, and finds these jobs so that they can both survive financially, and is also trying to get them noticed. It is whilst doing these pieces, that Hanna comes across information about a virus that is popping up all over the planet, in different, unrelated locations, and has no cure, the Klaria virus. This virus is affecting people biologically, and killing them. At the same time, a separate virus is also popping up called Twister, but this is affecting technology.
During a couple of her interviews, and whilst starting to look at things, Hanna makes the suggestion that these things could be linked, but is immediately shut down by everyone, until at one press conference, an ‘Unknown’ source contacts her, and tells her to ask the hard question of leading people, about whether these things are linked, and the risk to the population. Not only does this create an uproar, it puts her in the spotlight, and suddenly, without meaning to, she gets the role she has always wanted.
This is not the only story being told in this book though (and I don’t want to give away too many spoilers), but as things start to unfold across the planet, Ryk Brown provides us with the perspective of several other people as well.
Originally, this was actually a collection of short stories a while back, and this book is the culmination of those short stories, but Brown has added some additional material, and part of that is the additional perspective of these others. We not only get to see the continued story of Hanna, Ari and those with her, but also some of those that are in space onboard a starship as they are inbound to Earth from a long haul trip just as the outbreak occurs.
There are a couple of different characters we get to see their points of view of as things unfold on Earth, and it makes for a fascinating look at the events and situation from multiple perspectives as humanity tries to deal with the outbreak of this devastating plague.
The character work in this story is exceptional, each of Brown’s characters are incredibly authentic, you can feel the anxiety and panic that is emanating from them as things start to unravel and it is becoming apparent that this is much larger than they realise. Hanna’s initial youthful enthusiasm, and almost genuine naivety is captured so well, but is also tempered by Ari’s more grown-up attitude, and her understanding that they have to go a certain path to be able to survive. Both characters are captivating, and really bring the story to life.
The later characters (again, I don’t want to give spoilers), also are exceptionally well written, you really get this sense of urgency from them, there is this underlying fear about what is happening and just how big this is. For some, you can tell it is growing into something greater (like absolute terror), but for others, there is that controlled understanding of what needs to be done – professionalism – Brown captures these characters extraordinarily well.
One of the things that is done really well is the world building. Throughout this story, you get a real feel that you are in a future in which humanity has evolved into a society that is reliant on its technology, but that they are also incredibly advanced, having achieved a level of technological advancement well beyond our own. Brown has really thought about things, and captured the environment to make it realistic and let us immerse ourselves into this incredible world.
For those that have read the Frontiers Saga, this is a story that is a must read for every fan of the series as it provides so much background, providing an incredibly detailed account of the fall of humanity and what became known as the ‘Bio-Digital’ plague.
The great thing about this book though, is that if you haven’t read the Frontiers Saga, you can still read this as a standalone book about how two reporters stumble across the story of a lifetime, how they discover that what appears to be one very deadly virus, and another very dangerous technological virus are actually linked, and could actually mean the downfall of humanity.
This is a brilliant story, one that is totally captivating, and once you start reading, you just can’t put it down, as you get totally enthralled in what is happening. Must read for fans of the Frontiers Saga!!
December 23, 2025
Worth It!!!!
I initially wasn’t sure if this book would be worth reading since it’s not actually part of the series. I’m pleased to report that it’s definitely worth reading, and I believe it’s an essential read that helps us to better understand the bio-digital plague.
I initially wasn’t sure if this book would be worth reading since it’s not actually part of the series. I’m pleased to report that it’s definitely worth reading, and I believe it’s an essential read that helps us to better understand the bio-digital plague.
April 12, 2019
Engaging
Fun read. Is this our future? Or are we already here?
Ok nine more words r require so is that nine....
Fun read. Is this our future? Or are we already here?
Ok nine more words r require so is that nine....
December 6, 2020
Nice short story for the intro of the Frontiers Saga series. I would be interested in a longer prequel.
December 19, 2023
If I remember correctly this is a little flashback or a prequel. Its not in depth just a few stories of "random" people.
March 8, 2025
One of the most intriguing self publi.shed sf I have read.
The concept was very new, as per usual some of the caricters were a bit wet, I would pulling a trigger in that type of situation.
Bit puzzled Ithat that genetic mix will come up a bit short, to say the least.
Basically I much enjoyed it, do a follow up?
The concept was very new, as per usual some of the caricters were a bit wet, I would pulling a trigger in that type of situation.
Bit puzzled Ithat that genetic mix will come up a bit short, to say the least.
Basically I much enjoyed it, do a follow up?
June 11, 2022
This is an interesting story with intrigue until the end. My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.0; Narration 4.0.
The four main characters are facing a bio and digital virus that has them on different paths to the same destiny. The reporter wants to question the connection between the viruses over the objections of her production manager. Because she is willing to push a little, a mysterious entity contacts her and pushes her further through intimidation that includes putting an interview guest to death in her presence.
The rookie officer is lucky to get a smart, experienced, and mentoring partner. He helps her manage the day-to-day issues as matters intensify during the early days of fear and social chaos. After being suspended due to possible exposure to the virus, she is shocked to have her great (great?) grandfather show up at her door to give her an alternate future.
The space cargo ship captain has been extending his life by living in space while hoping that a cure for his terminal illness will be discovered. When faced with the potential death of most humans on Earth, and who knows where else, the captain determines to meet his (great?) grandson and offer him the chance to live off-world. He is surprised to meet his great (great?) granddaughter instead but still wants her to join him.
A very tough, bounty hunter has a prisoner on the cargo ship. She plans to deliver him to authorities on Earth and receive her bounty. Unfortunately, by the time the ship is approaching Earth, the bio and digital virus is close to eliminating the authority chain and penal facilities.
These four come together late in the story, joining resources with a gang boss to make a last-ditch effort to save the human race. Ironically, they may have to rely on the character who started the virus.
This is my first book by this author, so I had no conflicting series or expectations to overcome as some reviews seem to mention. There is some environmental ‘preaching’ and debate regarding the possible dangers of AI sentience. I didn’t let any of that bother my enjoying the story. The story is set in the 25th century where all things are (mostly) peaceful on Earth and there are many inhabited planets and space colonies.
I found it interesting following the different threads until they met. I appreciated that the intrigue continued until the end which had a bit of a last-chapter twist. I would be interested to know what happens to the survivors and how the other planets fared. I recommend this to fans of AI issues and space sci fi.
Audio Notes: I have enjoyed the narration of Jeffrey Kafer on other books, and he delivered well on this story too. He provides distinct voices and energy so that there was no confusion in the characters. I actually selected the audiobook because of Kafer and I am glad that I had the opportunity to listen to this.
Source: 2022 NetGalley.
The four main characters are facing a bio and digital virus that has them on different paths to the same destiny. The reporter wants to question the connection between the viruses over the objections of her production manager. Because she is willing to push a little, a mysterious entity contacts her and pushes her further through intimidation that includes putting an interview guest to death in her presence.
The rookie officer is lucky to get a smart, experienced, and mentoring partner. He helps her manage the day-to-day issues as matters intensify during the early days of fear and social chaos. After being suspended due to possible exposure to the virus, she is shocked to have her great (great?) grandfather show up at her door to give her an alternate future.
The space cargo ship captain has been extending his life by living in space while hoping that a cure for his terminal illness will be discovered. When faced with the potential death of most humans on Earth, and who knows where else, the captain determines to meet his (great?) grandson and offer him the chance to live off-world. He is surprised to meet his great (great?) granddaughter instead but still wants her to join him.
A very tough, bounty hunter has a prisoner on the cargo ship. She plans to deliver him to authorities on Earth and receive her bounty. Unfortunately, by the time the ship is approaching Earth, the bio and digital virus is close to eliminating the authority chain and penal facilities.
These four come together late in the story, joining resources with a gang boss to make a last-ditch effort to save the human race. Ironically, they may have to rely on the character who started the virus.
This is my first book by this author, so I had no conflicting series or expectations to overcome as some reviews seem to mention. There is some environmental ‘preaching’ and debate regarding the possible dangers of AI sentience. I didn’t let any of that bother my enjoying the story. The story is set in the 25th century where all things are (mostly) peaceful on Earth and there are many inhabited planets and space colonies.
I found it interesting following the different threads until they met. I appreciated that the intrigue continued until the end which had a bit of a last-chapter twist. I would be interested to know what happens to the survivors and how the other planets fared. I recommend this to fans of AI issues and space sci fi.
Audio Notes: I have enjoyed the narration of Jeffrey Kafer on other books, and he delivered well on this story too. He provides distinct voices and energy so that there was no confusion in the characters. I actually selected the audiobook because of Kafer and I am glad that I had the opportunity to listen to this.
Source: 2022 NetGalley.
October 26, 2021
A 1000yrs in the past Human civilisation is content in its technological superiority, the world has moved forward in leaps and bounds with technological advances. People have embedded chips to received data and communications, overlays on their eyes for faster information, colonies have been settled, numerous in the Sol System, but many in other Star Systems as well.
Humanity is prospering, things look good, even Political systems have evolved.
However, in the Core, a new virus has sprung up, 2 in fact, one biological and 1 technological, the Klavia virus and the Twister virus, both are causing major issues, and unsettling things.
In the middle of this, we have our main characters, Hanna and Arielle (Ari), two reporters who are also good friends. They are freelance reporters, trying to make it big, but currently, they are just getting bit stories, and most of them are interviewing different people about the virus.
In the first of the short stories of ‘Fall of the Core’, we get to know about the girls, this world back then, that is so different from the one we know in ‘Frontiers Saga’ a 1000yrs in the future. And we start to get an understanding of the virus’s that are about to tear their galaxy apart.
It is fascinating reading the story, knowing what is going to unfold from the future, but not knowing the details, and then reading the actual events as they take place.
If you are a fan of the Frontiers Saga, you will love this series, as it provides some really interesting background, and the story is just brilliant in itself. ‘The Frontiers Saga’ is beyond exceptional as a series, and this is just as good, with the level of detail, the character quality and just the outstanding storyline.
As the story progresses and events unfold, you can see what is slowly happening, and it is terrifying how it occurs, but it is also so totally engaging as well.
Totally brilliant – can’t wait for part 2 – must read for any fan!!
Humanity is prospering, things look good, even Political systems have evolved.
However, in the Core, a new virus has sprung up, 2 in fact, one biological and 1 technological, the Klavia virus and the Twister virus, both are causing major issues, and unsettling things.
In the middle of this, we have our main characters, Hanna and Arielle (Ari), two reporters who are also good friends. They are freelance reporters, trying to make it big, but currently, they are just getting bit stories, and most of them are interviewing different people about the virus.
In the first of the short stories of ‘Fall of the Core’, we get to know about the girls, this world back then, that is so different from the one we know in ‘Frontiers Saga’ a 1000yrs in the future. And we start to get an understanding of the virus’s that are about to tear their galaxy apart.
It is fascinating reading the story, knowing what is going to unfold from the future, but not knowing the details, and then reading the actual events as they take place.
If you are a fan of the Frontiers Saga, you will love this series, as it provides some really interesting background, and the story is just brilliant in itself. ‘The Frontiers Saga’ is beyond exceptional as a series, and this is just as good, with the level of detail, the character quality and just the outstanding storyline.
As the story progresses and events unfold, you can see what is slowly happening, and it is terrifying how it occurs, but it is also so totally engaging as well.
Totally brilliant – can’t wait for part 2 – must read for any fan!!
January 17, 2024
Something strange is happening on Earth. A new virus, the Klaria virus, is attacking the population and there is no cure. At the same time, a technical virus named Twister is also on the rise. Hannah, a reporter who has been in the business for a decade or so, starts to believe that the two viruses are connected. She is considered a rogue and someone wasting everyone's time when she starts to ask questions about the two viruses and their possible connection. But Hannah is correct and the author of the viruses contacts her, telling her that she is correct and agreeing to work only with her.
Several weeks in, billions of humans have died. Other characters are introduced. One is a rookie female policewoman. Another is a spaceship captain who has outlived all his Earth family by taking long space voyages and remaining in suspended animation. The two characters are related as the female policewoman is the space captain's great great granddaughter and he returns to Earth long enough to rescue her and Hannah along with some soldiers from the disaster on Earth. Will they end up as the sole survivors of the human race?
Ryk Brown has created an entire universe which he calls The Frontier Sagas. There are over forty books in the series and this one is a prequel which explains the origin of the universe he has created. The characters and the plot are both intriguing and the action is fast and furious. The plot of a virus that kills off much of the world is quite reminiscent of the Covid pandemic the world has recently gone through. I listened to this book and it a great choice as the narrator was perfect. This book is recommended for science fiction readers.
Several weeks in, billions of humans have died. Other characters are introduced. One is a rookie female policewoman. Another is a spaceship captain who has outlived all his Earth family by taking long space voyages and remaining in suspended animation. The two characters are related as the female policewoman is the space captain's great great granddaughter and he returns to Earth long enough to rescue her and Hannah along with some soldiers from the disaster on Earth. Will they end up as the sole survivors of the human race?
Ryk Brown has created an entire universe which he calls The Frontier Sagas. There are over forty books in the series and this one is a prequel which explains the origin of the universe he has created. The characters and the plot are both intriguing and the action is fast and furious. The plot of a virus that kills off much of the world is quite reminiscent of the Covid pandemic the world has recently gone through. I listened to this book and it a great choice as the narrator was perfect. This book is recommended for science fiction readers.
August 11, 2021
This is a pretty ambitious book by Ryk Brown. It's longer than his normal books, has more characters, and way more plot lines. He did a great job in writing it. The characters are likable with unique personalities, even seldom mentioned 2-dimensional characters like the starship mechanic Donny. I would have appreciated a bit more physical descriptions of the characters (there is very little other than young/old, male/female), but at the same time, that allows the reader to paint the scene and portray the characters however they might.
One of the aspects I loved the most about this book was that it has an ending! Not a terribly conclusive ending, and the story could definitely go on, but scope of the book had a beginning, middle and end. That is so rare these days, especially in Ryk Brown's own books, the Frontiers Saga which are pretty much just a few chapters and then leave you hanging.
Its a good book, but not 5 stars as its still a fairly simple book. The story could use a bit more grit, more sex drive, more about the what the AI did to entertain itself and its new found independence for 1,000 years, and some tantalizing info about Kinnon to make us continue thinking about the book long after we finished reading it.
One of the aspects I loved the most about this book was that it has an ending! Not a terribly conclusive ending, and the story could definitely go on, but scope of the book had a beginning, middle and end. That is so rare these days, especially in Ryk Brown's own books, the Frontiers Saga which are pretty much just a few chapters and then leave you hanging.
Its a good book, but not 5 stars as its still a fairly simple book. The story could use a bit more grit, more sex drive, more about the what the AI did to entertain itself and its new found independence for 1,000 years, and some tantalizing info about Kinnon to make us continue thinking about the book long after we finished reading it.
June 7, 2016
Prequel #1 of 2 (so far)
I didn't know there were prequels when I began the story. I've now read through and including the the first episode in the second series/season/part of this saga. I think I'm rather glad I didn't read both prequels until now. When you read the books, there's always this subtle mystery behind what happened in the bio-digital virus. No one knows exactly what happened. I think if you read this first, the reading experience may be a little different, not wrong, just different. Like I said, I'm glad I waited because now it makes these prequels have more import on the story. One does not have to read these prequels in order to understand what is happening in the books but I would encourage people to read both prequels because they're a bit of background. However, I will say that now I wonder what happened to those characters. Perhaps this will become a whole storyline in of itself sometime in the near future.
I didn't know there were prequels when I began the story. I've now read through and including the the first episode in the second series/season/part of this saga. I think I'm rather glad I didn't read both prequels until now. When you read the books, there's always this subtle mystery behind what happened in the bio-digital virus. No one knows exactly what happened. I think if you read this first, the reading experience may be a little different, not wrong, just different. Like I said, I'm glad I waited because now it makes these prequels have more import on the story. One does not have to read these prequels in order to understand what is happening in the books but I would encourage people to read both prequels because they're a bit of background. However, I will say that now I wonder what happened to those characters. Perhaps this will become a whole storyline in of itself sometime in the near future.
August 23, 2021
And we’re off!
This backstory to the fall of the core sets the stage for a very intriguing twist to the Frontier Saga. We saw glimpses into the start of the Ta’Akar dynasty, I think glimpses into the Jung society formation, and I bet insight into the genesis of the SilTek corporation planet! Can’t wait to see where the new storyline laid down in this episode is going to take us!
I really enjoyed getting to know the background on the bio digital plague. The great thing about science fiction is that it has a basis in scientific fact. The fact that this backstory comes out now during the covid era radishes the verisimilitude to new heights!
Keep ‘em coming, Ryk. One of my favorite storylines of all time. Can’t wait to see what CAPT Nathan Scott is going to be up to in the next installment in the series!
This backstory to the fall of the core sets the stage for a very intriguing twist to the Frontier Saga. We saw glimpses into the start of the Ta’Akar dynasty, I think glimpses into the Jung society formation, and I bet insight into the genesis of the SilTek corporation planet! Can’t wait to see where the new storyline laid down in this episode is going to take us!
I really enjoyed getting to know the background on the bio digital plague. The great thing about science fiction is that it has a basis in scientific fact. The fact that this backstory comes out now during the covid era radishes the verisimilitude to new heights!
Keep ‘em coming, Ryk. One of my favorite storylines of all time. Can’t wait to see what CAPT Nathan Scott is going to be up to in the next installment in the series!
November 26, 2024
In general i am not a huge fan of prequel books. This started off quite slow and did not really connect with any of the characters. About 1/3 of way through, things at least picked up. It did not really add much to this universe for me, as the main series explained the migration well enough. I honestly wanted to know more of the super knowledge arch that saved humanity in the main line. It is just a brief mention here of being taken off line to safe guard it. Looking forward to starting part 2 set of books in the saga as this prequal reminded me i enjoy the series overall
March 5, 2017
This one starts off slow, but that's just to lull you into a sense of calm before BAM! I'm liking the plot, but the characters need work for me to empathize with them. I also have a sneaking hunch that I know who this mysterious voice may be... We shall see, as I will most definitely be 'tuning in' to this story each month as it unfolds and we get the TRUTH behind the Bio-digital Plague of the Frontiers Saga! Great Job again, Mr. Brown! 4 Stars and an Excellent Chapter 1 Read!
August 31, 2021
I was worried that this was just a rehash of his previous short stories, but as advertised this is a full fledged new novel. The first half of the book contains the previously written material, but with new characters and arches mixed in. Pretty much everything after the first half of the book in completely new. Ryk has really good characterization and I always enjoy his stories and this one does not disappoint. It will be exciting to see if this story ties into the other series in the future.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 20, 2022
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an advanced audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
3 stars
A virus has killed more than half of humankind has died. The book follows a reporter and her team; a cargo ship captain comes to earth to find his great great grandson; a new police officer learns the ropes.
After I started listening to the book I realized it was multiple novellas combined. I didn’t feel connected to the characters.
3 stars
A virus has killed more than half of humankind has died. The book follows a reporter and her team; a cargo ship captain comes to earth to find his great great grandson; a new police officer learns the ropes.
After I started listening to the book I realized it was multiple novellas combined. I didn’t feel connected to the characters.
June 1, 2015
Slow start but .....
Almost stopped reading, was disappointed in the slow, stilted verbiage. But.... when the mysterious voice started the action picked up and it carried me to the "cliff hanger" ending. Not sure if I'm going to like it or not, but looking forward to the next installment. I guess that's more positive than negative.
Almost stopped reading, was disappointed in the slow, stilted verbiage. But.... when the mysterious voice started the action picked up and it carried me to the "cliff hanger" ending. Not sure if I'm going to like it or not, but looking forward to the next installment. I guess that's more positive than negative.
June 25, 2015
WOW!! What a great read! The first 3 or 4 pages were pretty ho-hum and then it started to build. And kept on building.... to an explosive good read!
How much longer till the second one, "Netcast One" comes out?
Excellent book.
Hey Mr Brown... what else you got? Hehe, headed off right now to find some more of your work!
How much longer till the second one, "Netcast One" comes out?
Excellent book.
Hey Mr Brown... what else you got? Hehe, headed off right now to find some more of your work!
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