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Countdown to Epsilon #1
The Gamma Recruits
Jayson Reilly thought his research would save the world. He never dreamed it could be used to take over another one.
Sent to a parallel Earth a thousand years in the past, Jayson believes he’s part of a mission to save humanity from certain disaster. But something is wrong. What he finds waiting for him doesn’t match the historical record, and he soon realizes he and his fellow scientists are not the first arrivals from their world.
Who was the mysterious visitor from the past, and what was his purpose? By the time Jayson learns the horrifying truth, it’s too late to turn back.
Sent to a parallel Earth a thousand years in the past, Jayson believes he’s part of a mission to save humanity from certain disaster. But something is wrong. What he finds waiting for him doesn’t match the historical record, and he soon realizes he and his fellow scientists are not the first arrivals from their world.
Who was the mysterious visitor from the past, and what was his purpose? By the time Jayson learns the horrifying truth, it’s too late to turn back.
432 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 22, 2022
129 people are currently reading
743 people want to read
About the author
James Pelkmans
4 books13 followersI grew up in rural Canada near the small town of Embro, Ontario, and spent my teen years in nearby Stratford. After graduating high school, I moved to Toronto to earn a degree in aerospace engineering at Ryerson University (now Toronto Metropolitan University).
Early in my career, I was a consultant in the aerospace and automotive industries. After a few years, I co-founded a consulting company with some colleagues, selling modeling and simulation software and teaching companies how to get the most out of it. In 2008, I jumped at the opportunity to spend a few years in Italy with my family working as an aerodynamics designer for the Ferrari F1 team and traveling Europe.
Since 2012, I have been living in Snohomish, Washington with my family where I now specialize in Organizational Change Management. My role blends my engineering background and expertise with concepts of organizational psychology to help companies adapt to change. The characters and technology in my book are enriched by my experiences, my work, and, most importantly, the inspiring people I work with every day.
Early in my career, I was a consultant in the aerospace and automotive industries. After a few years, I co-founded a consulting company with some colleagues, selling modeling and simulation software and teaching companies how to get the most out of it. In 2008, I jumped at the opportunity to spend a few years in Italy with my family working as an aerodynamics designer for the Ferrari F1 team and traveling Europe.
Since 2012, I have been living in Snohomish, Washington with my family where I now specialize in Organizational Change Management. My role blends my engineering background and expertise with concepts of organizational psychology to help companies adapt to change. The characters and technology in my book are enriched by my experiences, my work, and, most importantly, the inspiring people I work with every day.
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
April 19, 2023
This is a story about Jayson Reilly and a bunch of other recruits who were sent to a location in Hawaii as test subjects. However, it turns out that that wasn’t the case. Through the process a few of the recruits formed friendships and relationships.
I wanted to like this story. The idea sounded cool, however, it just didn’t grab me. Mainly because there were so many characters who appeared to be very similar because there wasn’t much depth to them. Initially, it felt like it was from Jayson’s point-of-view, but then it'd go into another character’s head. Also, a lot of dialogue went nowhere. These recruits could never stay on topic. The plot wasn’t strong enough and clean enough. The story seemed to drag a lot.
I wanted to like this story. The idea sounded cool, however, it just didn’t grab me. Mainly because there were so many characters who appeared to be very similar because there wasn’t much depth to them. Initially, it felt like it was from Jayson’s point-of-view, but then it'd go into another character’s head. Also, a lot of dialogue went nowhere. These recruits could never stay on topic. The plot wasn’t strong enough and clean enough. The story seemed to drag a lot.
August 4, 2023
I won this book via Goodreads giveaways.
Wow. Wow wow wow! I am so upset that I lollygagged on reading this after I won it. This book is awesome and I can’t wait to read the next one.
This Black Mirror-esque sci fi was so cool. The premise is believable and well explained, despite the fact that it delves into (what I assume) is quantum superposition and other complex hard sci topics. Not only is it a cool sci fi, there’s historical fic, frank discussion and introspection about social, political, cultural, and race issues, and an array of interesting characters to boot. I was engaged started to finish. I need to know what happens next.
I don’t give out five stars lightly and this really earned it. So well written and thought out. Hoping the next one is more of the same!
Wow. Wow wow wow! I am so upset that I lollygagged on reading this after I won it. This book is awesome and I can’t wait to read the next one.
This Black Mirror-esque sci fi was so cool. The premise is believable and well explained, despite the fact that it delves into (what I assume) is quantum superposition and other complex hard sci topics. Not only is it a cool sci fi, there’s historical fic, frank discussion and introspection about social, political, cultural, and race issues, and an array of interesting characters to boot. I was engaged started to finish. I need to know what happens next.
I don’t give out five stars lightly and this really earned it. So well written and thought out. Hoping the next one is more of the same!
August 3, 2022
A gripping novel
This book was an intense read. The tension was high throughout the story and I found myself continually flipping pages to find out what happened next.
My only complaint with this novel (and I may be in the minority) is the strong language. The story was engaging enough I tried to gloss over the swearing, but I feel stories can be awesome without it too.
This book was an intense read. The tension was high throughout the story and I found myself continually flipping pages to find out what happened next.
My only complaint with this novel (and I may be in the minority) is the strong language. The story was engaging enough I tried to gloss over the swearing, but I feel stories can be awesome without it too.
January 20, 2023
Extremely good start to a series
Good characterisation, fascinating premise, with lots of potential for stories in nearly every historical time and place. I look forward to many more books in the series.
Good characterisation, fascinating premise, with lots of potential for stories in nearly every historical time and place. I look forward to many more books in the series.
September 20, 2022
A truly intriguing premise
The intriguing premise of this novel was very well written and executed. The author put in a lot of time for research and plot weaving. The overall effect was quite engaging, and I could not put the book down until the end. I’m really looking forward to reading the next one in the series.
The intriguing premise of this novel was very well written and executed. The author put in a lot of time for research and plot weaving. The overall effect was quite engaging, and I could not put the book down until the end. I’m really looking forward to reading the next one in the series.
April 27, 2023
Thought-provoking novel, definitely recommend to lovers of sci-fi!
If you're a fan of time travel science fiction, then, "The Gamma Recruits" is a must-read. It is a captivating and well-crafted time-travel sci-fi adventure that will transport readers to another world. In the story, Jayson Reilly and his colleagues are sent to a parallel earth that is a thousand years in the past, where they discover a plot to commit genocide. They are faced with a decision to make, whether they should risk their lives to stop it or not. The book explores complex themes, such as climate change, ethics, and military strategies, and is an engaging and thought-provoking read.
The setting of the story, which takes place in the Hawaiian islands, is masterfully crafted, adding an extra layer of depth to the narrative. The characters are compelling and engaging, driving the plot forward with near-future ideas and inventive concepts, making it a page-turner that is impossible to put down.
One of the book's strengths is its ability to blend complex scientific concepts with relevant social issues, without ever feeling preachy. The dialogue is, well-thought-out, and scientifically grounded, adding to the overall immersive experience. Readers will also appreciate the unpredictable twists and turns of the storyline, which weaves together seemingly unrelated storylines into a cohesive and thrilling narrative. The book raises thought-provoking questions about our society, such as the influence of algorithms on social media, and the ethics of scientific research.
I really don’t want to get into the story beyond this point, because I want this fascinating piece of art to unfold like magic right before your eyes, as it did mine. Just read the book and enjoy the story for yourself. I will add that this book was an interesting to read. I loved the originality and uniqueness of this story. The ending leaves the reader eagerly anticipating the next book in the series.
Overall, "The Gamma Recruits" is an entertaining and thought-provoking novel. It's a must-read for fans of time travel, epic adventure, and mind-bending concepts, and I can't wait to see where the author takes the series next.
Highly recommend it to anyone who loves time travel and sci-fi
If you're a fan of time travel science fiction, then, "The Gamma Recruits" is a must-read. It is a captivating and well-crafted time-travel sci-fi adventure that will transport readers to another world. In the story, Jayson Reilly and his colleagues are sent to a parallel earth that is a thousand years in the past, where they discover a plot to commit genocide. They are faced with a decision to make, whether they should risk their lives to stop it or not. The book explores complex themes, such as climate change, ethics, and military strategies, and is an engaging and thought-provoking read.
The setting of the story, which takes place in the Hawaiian islands, is masterfully crafted, adding an extra layer of depth to the narrative. The characters are compelling and engaging, driving the plot forward with near-future ideas and inventive concepts, making it a page-turner that is impossible to put down.
One of the book's strengths is its ability to blend complex scientific concepts with relevant social issues, without ever feeling preachy. The dialogue is, well-thought-out, and scientifically grounded, adding to the overall immersive experience. Readers will also appreciate the unpredictable twists and turns of the storyline, which weaves together seemingly unrelated storylines into a cohesive and thrilling narrative. The book raises thought-provoking questions about our society, such as the influence of algorithms on social media, and the ethics of scientific research.
I really don’t want to get into the story beyond this point, because I want this fascinating piece of art to unfold like magic right before your eyes, as it did mine. Just read the book and enjoy the story for yourself. I will add that this book was an interesting to read. I loved the originality and uniqueness of this story. The ending leaves the reader eagerly anticipating the next book in the series.
Overall, "The Gamma Recruits" is an entertaining and thought-provoking novel. It's a must-read for fans of time travel, epic adventure, and mind-bending concepts, and I can't wait to see where the author takes the series next.
Highly recommend it to anyone who loves time travel and sci-fi
May 14, 2023
Disclaimer: I received this book from GoodReads in return for a review.
The Gamma Recruits follows a group of young people of various ethnicities and talents as they train to enter an alternate universe and create a civilization that values climate stability over the gathering of wealth (our world, in other words). Some time after arrival, on Oahu, some of them notice that things are not exactly as they seem. The security detail that comes with them seems to have an alternate agenda, which seems to be detrimental to everyone else living on their world. As they set about looking for ways to sabotage the military's plans, another fly in the ointment appears. An injured native from another island is found. While nursing him back to health, they discover that the enemies of the other island are planning a massive attack, which could well endanger their own well being. This is a fun read, and I'd give it four stars, but for the fact the story isn't finished when the book is. Part of the annoying, growing trend that seems to have infected many authors like a virus, this is part of a series. I resent that, but that's my problem. If you like a good science fiction adventure, this would be just the thing for you.
The Gamma Recruits follows a group of young people of various ethnicities and talents as they train to enter an alternate universe and create a civilization that values climate stability over the gathering of wealth (our world, in other words). Some time after arrival, on Oahu, some of them notice that things are not exactly as they seem. The security detail that comes with them seems to have an alternate agenda, which seems to be detrimental to everyone else living on their world. As they set about looking for ways to sabotage the military's plans, another fly in the ointment appears. An injured native from another island is found. While nursing him back to health, they discover that the enemies of the other island are planning a massive attack, which could well endanger their own well being. This is a fun read, and I'd give it four stars, but for the fact the story isn't finished when the book is. Part of the annoying, growing trend that seems to have infected many authors like a virus, this is part of a series. I resent that, but that's my problem. If you like a good science fiction adventure, this would be just the thing for you.
August 20, 2023
"The Gamma Recruits" is a captivating time-travel science fiction adventure that seamlessly blends complex themes with an engaging narrative. Set against the backdrop of the Hawaiian islands, the story follows Jayson Reilly and his colleagues as they journey to a parallel earth in the past, unearthing a plot of genocide. Authoritatively crafted, the setting lends an extra layer of depth to the tale, connecting it with pertinent social issues. The characters, though occasionally one-dimensional, are driven by near-future concepts, propelling the plot forward with well-timed revelations.
The novel's brilliance lies in its ability to weave together scientific concepts and societal concerns without didacticism. It intriguingly explores algorithmic manipulation in social media, indigenous rights, and the ethics of scientific advancements. Though delving into quantum physics and supercomputing, the book remains accessible and engrossing. With unpredictably interwoven storylines and a thought-provoking narrative, it enthralls readers, leaving them eagerly anticipating the sequel. "The Gamma Recruits" is a must-read for science fiction enthusiasts, offering a unique blend of time travel, ethical dilemmas, and thrilling adventure.
The novel's brilliance lies in its ability to weave together scientific concepts and societal concerns without didacticism. It intriguingly explores algorithmic manipulation in social media, indigenous rights, and the ethics of scientific advancements. Though delving into quantum physics and supercomputing, the book remains accessible and engrossing. With unpredictably interwoven storylines and a thought-provoking narrative, it enthralls readers, leaving them eagerly anticipating the sequel. "The Gamma Recruits" is a must-read for science fiction enthusiasts, offering a unique blend of time travel, ethical dilemmas, and thrilling adventure.
August 26, 2023
"The Gamma Recruits" is a thrilling time travel adventure that keeps you on the edge of your seat. The parallel Earth concept is fascinating, and the revelation of a preceding visitor adds a gripping twist. Jayson's journey from blind obedience to determined resistance is well-written.
In this new world, on the island of O'ahu, Jayson discovers evidence that he and his fellow recruits are not the first visitors. A lone mercenary preceded them by at least a hundred years to prepare for their arrival in the most brutal way imaginable. To Jayson, the implications are undeniable. Everything he’s been told about his mission is a lie.
Horrified by the discovery, Jayson must convince his team to abandon their mission and join him in defense of their new home instead. It won't be easy. Armed only with their wits and the limited technology they’ve brought with them, they face incredible odds.)
In this new world, on the island of O'ahu, Jayson discovers evidence that he and his fellow recruits are not the first visitors. A lone mercenary preceded them by at least a hundred years to prepare for their arrival in the most brutal way imaginable. To Jayson, the implications are undeniable. Everything he’s been told about his mission is a lie.
Horrified by the discovery, Jayson must convince his team to abandon their mission and join him in defense of their new home instead. It won't be easy. Armed only with their wits and the limited technology they’ve brought with them, they face incredible odds.)
October 14, 2023
Combining elements of technothriller and hard sci-fi with themes of climate anxiety, the overreach of tech companies and social media, and colonialism, this was a novel addition to the time travel genre. I enjoyed the twists and turns along the way, the subject matter felt highly relevant, and it rode the lines between commercial fiction, thought provoking critique, and unpredictable thriller very well.
Regarding the writing style, the pace in the opening isn't necessarily reflective of the book as a whole. This isn't a critique of the opening or the rest of the book, but if you find that the opening, which doesn't unfold in real time and fills in a lot of backstory, isn't what you are interested in, the rest of the novel is written in a more conventional style. I can see why Pelkmans made the choice to write the opening this way and it works for the book, but I can see how it could push some readers away or mislead them about the overall style.
Regarding the writing style, the pace in the opening isn't necessarily reflective of the book as a whole. This isn't a critique of the opening or the rest of the book, but if you find that the opening, which doesn't unfold in real time and fills in a lot of backstory, isn't what you are interested in, the rest of the novel is written in a more conventional style. I can see why Pelkmans made the choice to write the opening this way and it works for the book, but I can see how it could push some readers away or mislead them about the overall style.
December 16, 2023
"The Gamma Recruits" is an epic and action-packed time travel science fiction tale. The protagonist, Jayson, believes he's part of a mission to a parallel Earth, only to discover unsettling truths. Sent to an Earth a thousand years behind, Jayson finds evidence of a previous, ruthless visitor. As he unveils the deception, Jayson faces a daunting choice: adhere to the mission or defend their newfound home. With limited technology and daunting odds, Jayson and his team must navigate a world of deceit and danger. This science fiction adventure takes readers on a gripping journey, blending time travel intricacies with the resilience of the human spirit. "The Gamma Recruits" is a compelling narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats as Jayson confronts unexpected challenges and the harsh realities of his mission.
July 14, 2022
time travel yay!
The protagonist is recruited for a mission to a New World. He must decide how far he’s willing to go to stop history from repeating. I loved the explanation of the implications of Schrodinger‘s thought experiment.
My favorite scene was when the protagonist was in a bar with his friends and a fight broke out. He became friends with the bartender and starts to help him out around the bar. He learns more about the bartenders life and starts to feel bad for him and then get more comfortable so that they start to talk about the future. It’s just a cool and really lovable concept
The protagonist is recruited for a mission to a New World. He must decide how far he’s willing to go to stop history from repeating. I loved the explanation of the implications of Schrodinger‘s thought experiment.
My favorite scene was when the protagonist was in a bar with his friends and a fight broke out. He became friends with the bartender and starts to help him out around the bar. He learns more about the bartenders life and starts to feel bad for him and then get more comfortable so that they start to talk about the future. It’s just a cool and really lovable concept
July 1, 2023
An Interesting Take on Time Travel
An interesting premise that is well executed. I liked the science and the humor, and as others have noted, the choice of Hawaii as a major setting.
Here are some lines I found memorable:
-"It smells like he and his colleagues have been playing Dungeons and Dragons in here all weekend."
-"'I'd really like to see your room,' she yelled in his ear over the din of the music. 'It's just like all the others, I assume,' he replied. She wordlessly cocked her head to the side and raised an eyebrow. 'Oh,' he realized. 'Yeah, of course.'"
If you like sci-fi and want something different, you've come to the right book.
An interesting premise that is well executed. I liked the science and the humor, and as others have noted, the choice of Hawaii as a major setting.
Here are some lines I found memorable:
-"It smells like he and his colleagues have been playing Dungeons and Dragons in here all weekend."
-"'I'd really like to see your room,' she yelled in his ear over the din of the music. 'It's just like all the others, I assume,' he replied. She wordlessly cocked her head to the side and raised an eyebrow. 'Oh,' he realized. 'Yeah, of course.'"
If you like sci-fi and want something different, you've come to the right book.
January 15, 2024
The Gamma Recruits: An epic time travel science fiction story by James Pelkmans is a must-have for any enthusiast of sci-fi or fantasy novels. Not only does James flawlessly weave a world of epic proportions into his story, he does so while approaching very relatable modern themes without sounding preachy or cliché. In addition to the epic world James has developed, he is able to fill the novel with twists and turns that give the story a bit of a thriller vibe, maintaining intensity and pace that keep you turning pages.
The characters are overall well written and are very diverse, with immersive dialogue that makes the characters feel real and adds to the depth of the story. The conversations are believable, even the ones involving more complex scientific ideas.
If you’re looking for a fast-paced read in a grandiose story that will leave you yearning for the next installment, look no further than this series. I’ll be adding book 2 to my TBR.
The characters are overall well written and are very diverse, with immersive dialogue that makes the characters feel real and adds to the depth of the story. The conversations are believable, even the ones involving more complex scientific ideas.
If you’re looking for a fast-paced read in a grandiose story that will leave you yearning for the next installment, look no further than this series. I’ll be adding book 2 to my TBR.
August 20, 2022
I liked how plausible this book felt - I could really imagine things playing out the way they did, which I think is part of what kept me hooked. I also liked how intelligent the characters were, and enjoyed getting insights into their various areas of expertise. And the descriptions of Hawai’i were awesome. Definitely made me want to visit there myself. Overall, this book kept me up too late on several occasions.
January 6, 2024
Interesting subject but very slow
The idea itself of people transported to the Middle Ages was interesting. But I had trouble to remember who is who as there are so many. So no bonding with a main character too. The story was quite slow but the second part of the book was entertaining. Slthough I hate open endings.
The idea itself of people transported to the Middle Ages was interesting. But I had trouble to remember who is who as there are so many. So no bonding with a main character too. The story was quite slow but the second part of the book was entertaining. Slthough I hate open endings.
March 14, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The Gamma Recruits was an engaging and enjoyable read, filled with compelling characters and a story that kept me hooked from start to finish. The writing was immersive, and I loved the way it made me feel completely transported into its world!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The Gamma Recruits was an engaging and enjoyable read, filled with compelling characters and a story that kept me hooked from start to finish. The writing was immersive, and I loved the way it made me feel completely transported into its world!
April 3, 2023
This book surprised me. It started a bit slow and took a while to get into but I was drawn into the story and felt like I got to know the characters. It has left me wanting to read the next one and find out what happens. This is not a genre I usually seek out but I did enjoy reading this.
August 7, 2023
time travel on Hawaii
they do make it and it is a wild ride you do not want to miss. I enjoyed this book. loads of action, interesting characters and surprises along the way. thus should be a great series.
they do make it and it is a wild ride you do not want to miss. I enjoyed this book. loads of action, interesting characters and surprises along the way. thus should be a great series.
December 12, 2024
Received as a review copy from Story Origin, this an honest review. For me, this story it wasn't what I was expecting since I'd wanted to read this for some time. It's not a bad story, it's vibrantly descriptive but just a top long of a narrative to live a lasting impression on me.
January 7, 2024
The idea is nice but it takes ages and too many persons to get the story going. The second half is a lot better but why %&@ a cliffhanger?
December 3, 2024
Excellent
A wonderful and imaginative narrative, blending near-future perspective with past history events, as well as interesting personal interactions. Very enjoyable!
A wonderful and imaginative narrative, blending near-future perspective with past history events, as well as interesting personal interactions. Very enjoyable!
December 12, 2024
enjoyable
I enjoyed this. Seems written from a base of what our world is experiencing and providing a sci-fi opportunity for the characters. Worth reading.
I enjoyed this. Seems written from a base of what our world is experiencing and providing a sci-fi opportunity for the characters. Worth reading.
December 13, 2024
I loved this story. It was sci-fi at its best. It's also time travel or a sort. I can't wait to read the next two books to find out what happens
December 21, 2024
An OK read.
December 29, 2024
Cool sci-fi, time-travel, alternate timeline, multiverse thriller. I'd like to read the rest of the series.
December 14, 2022
Great storyline, author is a leftist atheist and pushes his sick ideology
Enjoyable story with intrigue, suspense and a unique spin on time travel. Unfortunately the author spent a great deal of time and energy trying to convince his readers that Western civilization is evil, that all people are equal, that white people are racist and that women are superior warriors vs men. At least he didn’t introduce homosexuality into the story…
Enjoyable story with intrigue, suspense and a unique spin on time travel. Unfortunately the author spent a great deal of time and energy trying to convince his readers that Western civilization is evil, that all people are equal, that white people are racist and that women are superior warriors vs men. At least he didn’t introduce homosexuality into the story…
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews