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Cataclysm: End of Worlds
When Jacob Cassel and his telepathic AI companion discover a dead body on a lonely Florida beach, it is only the beginning of an adventure that holds the fate of our world and the destiny of other worlds in the balance.Each book in The Silver Sphere series is "free-standing." You can read these books in any order. The author provides enough background information in each novella to orient readers to the characters and other relevant details.
82 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 23, 2021
About the author
David Gittlin
16 books45 followersOnly one thing stood between me and my dream of becoming a creative writer: I couldn’t do two things at once.
Upon retiring from my career in marketing communications, I decided to devote my full attention to writing fiction, thereby solving my multi-tasking challenge.
I began my creative writing journey by enrolling in the online Writers’ Program offered by UCLA. In a series of courses taught by professional writers, I learned how to craft memorable characters, create colorful worlds, and outline suspenseful plots enriched with drama and conflict.
Taking one baby step at a time, I managed to bridge the gulf between writing promotional copy in short bursts to rendering full scale novels. As an interim step, I wrote three screenplays.
My three feature length scripts; "Love Will Find You," “Joshua’s Decision, and "A Prescription for Happiness" have reached the finals or placed in several major screenplay competitions.
My first novel, a Science Fantasy, “Three Days to Darkness,” was nominated to the James Kirkwood Prize for creative writing.
My publishing company, Entelligent Entertainment, has also published "Scarlet Ambrosia" and my latest novel: "Micromium--Clean Energy from Mars."
Upon retiring from my career in marketing communications, I decided to devote my full attention to writing fiction, thereby solving my multi-tasking challenge.
I began my creative writing journey by enrolling in the online Writers’ Program offered by UCLA. In a series of courses taught by professional writers, I learned how to craft memorable characters, create colorful worlds, and outline suspenseful plots enriched with drama and conflict.
Taking one baby step at a time, I managed to bridge the gulf between writing promotional copy in short bursts to rendering full scale novels. As an interim step, I wrote three screenplays.
My three feature length scripts; "Love Will Find You," “Joshua’s Decision, and "A Prescription for Happiness" have reached the finals or placed in several major screenplay competitions.
My first novel, a Science Fantasy, “Three Days to Darkness,” was nominated to the James Kirkwood Prize for creative writing.
My publishing company, Entelligent Entertainment, has also published "Scarlet Ambrosia" and my latest novel: "Micromium--Clean Energy from Mars."
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
October 17, 2021
Loving this series!
Author David Gittlin impressed me yet again with the second installment of The Silver Sphere series, Cataclysm: End of Worlds. The first book of this series was funny, witty, and entertaining while this second book continued along these lines while also adding new character development and a more intensified plot. Readers get to enjoy new character bonds being built within the same humoristic narrative writing style. With the added characters, this series begins to become more dynamic. An added twist was well introduced nearing the end and I did not see it coming. This surprising development in the plot was believable and created an interesting transition for the continuation within the third coming installment of the series. Readers are left in suspense of what may happen next and I am definitely looking forward to reading what takes place in book three. The books in this short series are bite-sized easy-reads that are engaging. Although each book can easily be read in a day, I actually enjoy the pacing. It’s nice to be able to have interesting fictional book that spurs reflection and entertains without getting consumed in a huge whirlwind of world building. I appreciate the brevity of this series especially because each book still manages to keep me fulfilled. I really enjoy reading fun science fiction and Gittlin provides playful character dialogue that keeps me chuckling while reading. Loving this series!
Author David Gittlin impressed me yet again with the second installment of The Silver Sphere series, Cataclysm: End of Worlds. The first book of this series was funny, witty, and entertaining while this second book continued along these lines while also adding new character development and a more intensified plot. Readers get to enjoy new character bonds being built within the same humoristic narrative writing style. With the added characters, this series begins to become more dynamic. An added twist was well introduced nearing the end and I did not see it coming. This surprising development in the plot was believable and created an interesting transition for the continuation within the third coming installment of the series. Readers are left in suspense of what may happen next and I am definitely looking forward to reading what takes place in book three. The books in this short series are bite-sized easy-reads that are engaging. Although each book can easily be read in a day, I actually enjoy the pacing. It’s nice to be able to have interesting fictional book that spurs reflection and entertains without getting consumed in a huge whirlwind of world building. I appreciate the brevity of this series especially because each book still manages to keep me fulfilled. I really enjoy reading fun science fiction and Gittlin provides playful character dialogue that keeps me chuckling while reading. Loving this series!
October 21, 2021
As part of an ongoing series, “End of Worlds” is a Novella which can be picked up at any point in the series - each existing as a mini-story in the adventures of Jacob and his AI companion Arcon.
Classified as science-fiction, the work is, more aptly, an extension of David Gittlin’s personality and experiences. As such, the title relies heavily on the reader's ability to click with Gittlin’s particular charms and observations over buying into the fantastical elements of the narrative. Unsurprisingly, this makes for a mixed experience, depending on whether the personality of the protagonist Jacob resonates with the reader.
Where the book does excel is in Gittlin’s playful wit, specifically his relationship with Arcon and, the heroine of the book, Amy. Certainly, the way the three play off of each other is humorous, yet, not excessive enough to define the release only by its comedic beats. In addition, Gittlin is happy to break the third wall, even going so far as to take a subtle jab at critics of his work. This playful approach marks the greatest appeal into the series, as the author shows an aptitude for crafting mischievous prose.
However, the major issue with this structure is that it begins to underline the sci-fi elements by excessive use of archaic references. Portrayed as a 30’s something man in possession of advanced technology, Jacob’s references mostly lie with old American pop culture such as Red Foxx, Zig Ziglar and ‘Laurel and Hardy’. This tone betrays the intended age of the protagonist, giving the sense of being slightly misplaced self-insertion. Arguably more distracting, Gittlin also puts in name brands and companies as the work has the registered trademark symbol throughout - an unnecessary distraction when the hotel chain (for example) is irrelevant to the narrative.
Gittlin nails his tone in the opening pages, with a note of being aware that the tale in itself is pure bonkers and ‘in the service of fun’. Essentially, the “End of Worlds” is very self aware and unapologetic - which is admirable. Personally, the work did not appeal to my tastes in either sci-fi or comedy, yet, it is obvious that others will be swept up in Gittlin’s charisma. At a short read of 82 pages, the book is certainly worthy of self exploration, but the divide between fans and detractors will be in equal measure.
Classified as science-fiction, the work is, more aptly, an extension of David Gittlin’s personality and experiences. As such, the title relies heavily on the reader's ability to click with Gittlin’s particular charms and observations over buying into the fantastical elements of the narrative. Unsurprisingly, this makes for a mixed experience, depending on whether the personality of the protagonist Jacob resonates with the reader.
Where the book does excel is in Gittlin’s playful wit, specifically his relationship with Arcon and, the heroine of the book, Amy. Certainly, the way the three play off of each other is humorous, yet, not excessive enough to define the release only by its comedic beats. In addition, Gittlin is happy to break the third wall, even going so far as to take a subtle jab at critics of his work. This playful approach marks the greatest appeal into the series, as the author shows an aptitude for crafting mischievous prose.
However, the major issue with this structure is that it begins to underline the sci-fi elements by excessive use of archaic references. Portrayed as a 30’s something man in possession of advanced technology, Jacob’s references mostly lie with old American pop culture such as Red Foxx, Zig Ziglar and ‘Laurel and Hardy’. This tone betrays the intended age of the protagonist, giving the sense of being slightly misplaced self-insertion. Arguably more distracting, Gittlin also puts in name brands and companies as the work has the registered trademark symbol throughout - an unnecessary distraction when the hotel chain (for example) is irrelevant to the narrative.
Gittlin nails his tone in the opening pages, with a note of being aware that the tale in itself is pure bonkers and ‘in the service of fun’. Essentially, the “End of Worlds” is very self aware and unapologetic - which is admirable. Personally, the work did not appeal to my tastes in either sci-fi or comedy, yet, it is obvious that others will be swept up in Gittlin’s charisma. At a short read of 82 pages, the book is certainly worthy of self exploration, but the divide between fans and detractors will be in equal measure.
November 2, 2021
Cataclysm: End of the Worlds is the subsequent novella to David Gittlin’s The Silver Sphere series. Picking up right where the last novella ended, Cataclysm follows Jacob and Arcon after they save the Earth from destruction. Much like its predecessor, this novella too jumps straight into the story. Not long after a very brief recap, we see that Jacob and Arcon spot a body in the ocean. Upon further inspection they discover that the body is a woman who is dead, however, Arcon has different plans and decides to revive her by occupying her body. The duo from the first novella now becomes a trio, with Amy joining Jacob and Arcon on their mission to send a signal to Aneleya, Arcon’s home planet, to finally get rid of the Krondorians.
It is not necessary to read The Silver Sphere in order to understand this story. The author tends to just jump straight into his story with just enough explanation to place things and understand enough to read this story as a stand alone novella.
Cataclysm wastes absolutely no time and dives into a completely new mission. Although I thought the romance between Amy and Jacob needed more development, I think this is mostly due to the novellas short length, I still enjoyed the characters overall and found them equally entertaining on their own.
This story thrusts readers into the middle of a science fiction adventure, which is one of the reasons why I love novellas, but the author seems to understand that there is no room for fluff and keeps prose and action sharp as a tack as we hurdle through this exciting story. I was pleasantly surprised to also find some humor shine through in moments throughout the story.
The previous novella left me wanting more because it was such a short sneak peak into so many possibilities, Cataclysm left me wanting more because of the plot twist at the end. I'm not sure if it's because of David Gittlin's engrossing writing or the compelling storyline but these stories just beg to be told in a much larger novel. I can't wait to see where this story goes and get more of this exciting story in a follow up novella.
It is not necessary to read The Silver Sphere in order to understand this story. The author tends to just jump straight into his story with just enough explanation to place things and understand enough to read this story as a stand alone novella.
Cataclysm wastes absolutely no time and dives into a completely new mission. Although I thought the romance between Amy and Jacob needed more development, I think this is mostly due to the novellas short length, I still enjoyed the characters overall and found them equally entertaining on their own.
This story thrusts readers into the middle of a science fiction adventure, which is one of the reasons why I love novellas, but the author seems to understand that there is no room for fluff and keeps prose and action sharp as a tack as we hurdle through this exciting story. I was pleasantly surprised to also find some humor shine through in moments throughout the story.
The previous novella left me wanting more because it was such a short sneak peak into so many possibilities, Cataclysm left me wanting more because of the plot twist at the end. I'm not sure if it's because of David Gittlin's engrossing writing or the compelling storyline but these stories just beg to be told in a much larger novel. I can't wait to see where this story goes and get more of this exciting story in a follow up novella.
November 25, 2021
Cataclysm is the second installment of The Silver Sphere series by Gittlin. Though this picks up where the first volume left off, the author gives enough background information for it to serve as a standalone. The novella reintroduces our protagonist, struggling author Jacob Cassel and his AI companion Arcon. Jacob and Arcon come across a young woman's dead body on a beach in Florida. Meanwhile, the Krondonians, a violent alien race, have plans to destroy human kind by shooting a beam into the Earth's upper atmosphere. Arcon devises a plan to communicate with his home planet about the impending attack. He posses and revives Amy, the young woman they found along the beach and using Amy's stellar resume, secure her a job interview at the Goddard Space Flight Center and sneak into the control room of the Hubble telescope. This novella falls into the sci-fi genre though there is a hint of romance with the subplot of Jacob and Amy's relationship. Although it's dialogue heavy and there is a bit of info dumping at various points, Jacob's narration has a comic undertone and is sure to entertain. A short but entertaining quick read for sci-fi fans.
February 14, 2022
I don’t normally read sci-fi, but this was a very quick read, only taking about 2 hours or so. Full disclosure that this is the second book in a series but is touted as a stand-alone read if you’d like. I opted to dive right in with the second book. I haven’t read a short story in awhile and had forgotten how enjoyable they can be! That said, there were a few wonky moments of note.
Often the main character, Jacob, would make offhand comments, sometimes trying to appear clever, that just didn’t fit with the narrative and would quickly make me retrace the last page to find out exactly what was happening. I’m not sure if this was deliberate or if it was supposed to be perceived as character development, but it seemed a bit forced. Arcon was quite funny, however, and, although he wasn’t programmed to be funny, I enjoyed his dry humor.
The author did include a note at the beginning of the book to take its unbelievable nature with a grain of salt, so make sure to go in with that mindset. I thought this book was entertaining for what it was.
Often the main character, Jacob, would make offhand comments, sometimes trying to appear clever, that just didn’t fit with the narrative and would quickly make me retrace the last page to find out exactly what was happening. I’m not sure if this was deliberate or if it was supposed to be perceived as character development, but it seemed a bit forced. Arcon was quite funny, however, and, although he wasn’t programmed to be funny, I enjoyed his dry humor.
The author did include a note at the beginning of the book to take its unbelievable nature with a grain of salt, so make sure to go in with that mindset. I thought this book was entertaining for what it was.
October 27, 2021
"Cataclysm: End of Worlds" is the second novella to the Silver Sphere Series by David Gittlin. It is a science fiction fantasy novel that follows three characters, Arcon, Jacob, and Amy, in their quest to save the human race from destruction by the evil Krondorian crew. These villains intended to fire a beam into Earth's upper atmosphere to succeed in their annihilation.
Buoyed up by vividly drawn characters and the right amounts of fantasy elements, it is easy for readers to careen along with the characters as they endeavor to save the planet. The book's plot development, colorful twists, and Author Gittlin's crisp writing style made me enjoy reading this book in one sitting. Readers too will enjoy the growing romance between Jacob and Amy as the story buds.
Overall, "Cataclysm: End of Worlds" is a spectacular addition to its genre. The narrative is on point making it a wonderful sequel.
Buoyed up by vividly drawn characters and the right amounts of fantasy elements, it is easy for readers to careen along with the characters as they endeavor to save the planet. The book's plot development, colorful twists, and Author Gittlin's crisp writing style made me enjoy reading this book in one sitting. Readers too will enjoy the growing romance between Jacob and Amy as the story buds.
Overall, "Cataclysm: End of Worlds" is a spectacular addition to its genre. The narrative is on point making it a wonderful sequel.
October 19, 2021
I jumped right into this one - having not read the first book, since this series is indicated that they can be read as stand alone stories; Gittlin did a good job at this, as I never felt I was missing any "backstory" regarding Jacob and Arcon. This is what I would consider a short story, and as such, there doesn't seem to be a lot of character development. The three days that this story takes place in happen hard and fast, with the actions taking place one after another. There is some need to roll with the punches and just go with the story as a new member of the party is brought up to speed with these fantastical events, but overall it was an enjoyable read.
Being a space nerd, I did appreciate the detail that went into the description of the Goddard Space center; Gittin likes to set a scene - that is evident in his writing, and lends itself well to this story.
Being a space nerd, I did appreciate the detail that went into the description of the Goddard Space center; Gittin likes to set a scene - that is evident in his writing, and lends itself well to this story.
November 16, 2021
Ambitious and Immersive if a tad Flawed
The sci-fi elements to this book are incredibly well done and have an old school charm to them that makes the atmosphere of David Gittlins novella likeable and engaging. The characters, especially Arcon and Amy are well fleshed out. If you don’t enjoy reading some of the wittier aspects mostly surrounding the main character Jacob you probably won’t enjoy the book. Jacobs reactions and charm are definitely an acquired taste but one that grows on you with every page. On top of this, if you don’t read the predecessor you’ll be a bit lost plot wise and this book doesn’t do much to accommodate newcomers. The book is clogged up with too much dialogue and too little happening in the plot but overall it succeeds in expanding on its predecessor and housing some great characters.
The sci-fi elements to this book are incredibly well done and have an old school charm to them that makes the atmosphere of David Gittlins novella likeable and engaging. The characters, especially Arcon and Amy are well fleshed out. If you don’t enjoy reading some of the wittier aspects mostly surrounding the main character Jacob you probably won’t enjoy the book. Jacobs reactions and charm are definitely an acquired taste but one that grows on you with every page. On top of this, if you don’t read the predecessor you’ll be a bit lost plot wise and this book doesn’t do much to accommodate newcomers. The book is clogged up with too much dialogue and too little happening in the plot but overall it succeeds in expanding on its predecessor and housing some great characters.
October 18, 2021
The second book in the Silver Sphere series follows Jacob and Arcon on an adventure to save the Earth from inter-galactic forces. I actually have not read the first book in the series but found there was enough information and background for me to understand what was happening, I agree that these books can be considered standalone. In this installment Jacob and Arcon find a dead body on the shore in Florida and from there concoct a plan to stop an impending threat against Earth.
I liked the dialogue and banter between the characters. There was also an exciting plot twist at the end that I was not expecting. There were some points where I felt the description of the "science" behind things was a little dense, but overall I enjoyed the storyline and the characters.
I liked the dialogue and banter between the characters. There was also an exciting plot twist at the end that I was not expecting. There were some points where I felt the description of the "science" behind things was a little dense, but overall I enjoyed the storyline and the characters.
November 12, 2021
The story of Arcon, Jacob and Amy and their mission to save humans from villains make up the second volume of The Silver Sphere series, which, as the author poses right away, can be read in any order, not necessarily in the second place.
Gittlin made use of the first person to develop the storyline and he complements and expands the narrative through the use of photographs. I must say these images are delightful thanks to the quality.
I enjoyed the fact that the book is not long; it can be read in one sitting since the plot develops like a rollercoaster’s ride. Gittlinis clearly no stranger to the sci-fi and fantasy genres.
Gittlin made use of the first person to develop the storyline and he complements and expands the narrative through the use of photographs. I must say these images are delightful thanks to the quality.
I enjoyed the fact that the book is not long; it can be read in one sitting since the plot develops like a rollercoaster’s ride. Gittlinis clearly no stranger to the sci-fi and fantasy genres.
November 15, 2021
“Cataclysm: End of Worlds” is book number 2 in “The Silver Sphere” series. I started this series backwards but I could finish the book without trouble. There is enough information for the reader to have a fluent read despite this being the second part.
The story follows Jacob and Arcon and their adventures to save the Earth from intergalactic forces. As a sci-fi book, I think it has a pretty good balance between the real and the fantasy part. David Gitling did a good job with the narration making the novel a very captivating one.
I’ll be catching up with book one and on the look for number three!
The story follows Jacob and Arcon and their adventures to save the Earth from intergalactic forces. As a sci-fi book, I think it has a pretty good balance between the real and the fantasy part. David Gitling did a good job with the narration making the novel a very captivating one.
I’ll be catching up with book one and on the look for number three!
November 20, 2021
I really enjoy adventure and suspenseful novels such as this one. Set in Florida, a dead body is found on the beach and at that moment all begins.
Although this is the second book in the series, the books are stand alone so I read this one and could understand everything perfectly well. It is a book that traps you. The read is short and with a good pace so I finished it in a single sitting because I love reading and the story captured my attention.
I would totally recommend it and I will continue reading the rest of the series.
Although this is the second book in the series, the books are stand alone so I read this one and could understand everything perfectly well. It is a book that traps you. The read is short and with a good pace so I finished it in a single sitting because I love reading and the story captured my attention.
I would totally recommend it and I will continue reading the rest of the series.
February 2, 2022
"Cataclysm: End of Worlds" is the second book of the Silver Sphere series. Even though I haven´t read the first one yet, which is on my bucket list, the story is friendly and easy to understand. David Gittlin tells the story of Jacob Casell, who just finished saving the world by combining forces with a telepathic galactic force called Arcon.
The story gets interesting when they find a dead woman floating in the ocean and, using Arcon's power, bring her back to life in order to save the world from the violent Krondor Aliens. Totally worth it for people looking for a concise Psy-Fi adventure!
The story gets interesting when they find a dead woman floating in the ocean and, using Arcon's power, bring her back to life in order to save the world from the violent Krondor Aliens. Totally worth it for people looking for a concise Psy-Fi adventure!
February 12, 2022
A great fast Read
This short read got me reading non stop. I finished it in a single sitting. Cataclysm: End of Worlds is the second book in the Silver Sphere series by David Gittlin, but as his books are stand-alone I could perfectly understand this one without the need of reading the previous book.
The author had provided so much information that these books can be read in any order; I would definitely stick to this series! Adventurous and suspenseful are two words that, for me, describe this book best. I liked it a lot. I would certainly recommend reading it!
This short read got me reading non stop. I finished it in a single sitting. Cataclysm: End of Worlds is the second book in the Silver Sphere series by David Gittlin, but as his books are stand-alone I could perfectly understand this one without the need of reading the previous book.
The author had provided so much information that these books can be read in any order; I would definitely stick to this series! Adventurous and suspenseful are two words that, for me, describe this book best. I liked it a lot. I would certainly recommend reading it!
October 20, 2021
It's the second installment, but you don't have to read the first book to understand what's going on. Jacob and his AI friend are on a Florida beach when their next adventure begins. Once again, it's a race against time to save the world. I liked the introduction of new character, Amy, and the developments she brings. The story is fast-paced and keeps you engaged. Really enjoyed it! 5/5 stars
December 5, 2022
Another Alien - Friendly this Time
Cataclysm is book two of the Silver Sphere series. The first book was okay but this one was silly. I didn’t like it but kept expecting it to improve, but it didn’t. I am not continuing with this series.
Cataclysm is book two of the Silver Sphere series. The first book was okay but this one was silly. I didn’t like it but kept expecting it to improve, but it didn’t. I am not continuing with this series.
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