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From Beyond #1
From Beyond
Are we alone? It was only a matter of time before the truth was revealed....
Commander David Bryce is scheduled to lead a routine re-supply run for the Orbital Development Group (ORB) to the fledgling colony on Mars. Without warning, he’s taken away by government agents and told the mission parameters have changed.
They’ve discovered something. And it’s drifting closer to Earth.
Atlas Donovan tirelessly hunts for an artifact, and tracks it to Lake Como, Italy. After the recent news from ORB, Atlas is more drawn to the trail than ever. He continues his search, determined to uncover the significance of the strange markings, and more importantly, where the artifacts really came from.
As both Atlas and David draw near to their objectives, they realize a secret organization is working against them; a clandestine force with so much influence, they seem impossible to oppose.
Are we alone?
No, and they’ve been here before...
Commander David Bryce is scheduled to lead a routine re-supply run for the Orbital Development Group (ORB) to the fledgling colony on Mars. Without warning, he’s taken away by government agents and told the mission parameters have changed.
They’ve discovered something. And it’s drifting closer to Earth.
Atlas Donovan tirelessly hunts for an artifact, and tracks it to Lake Como, Italy. After the recent news from ORB, Atlas is more drawn to the trail than ever. He continues his search, determined to uncover the significance of the strange markings, and more importantly, where the artifacts really came from.
As both Atlas and David draw near to their objectives, they realize a secret organization is working against them; a clandestine force with so much influence, they seem impossible to oppose.
Are we alone?
No, and they’ve been here before...
331 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 5, 2022
597 people are currently reading
333 people want to read
About the author
Jasper T. Scott
100 books511 followersJasper Scott is a USA Today bestselling author of more than 20 sci-fi novels. With over a million books sold, Jasper's work has been translated into various languages and published around the world.
Jasper writes fast-paced books with unexpected twists and flawed characters. Join the author's mailing list to get two FREE books: https://files.jaspertscott.com/mailin...
Jasper writes fast-paced books with unexpected twists and flawed characters. Join the author's mailing list to get two FREE books: https://files.jaspertscott.com/mailin...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
July 8, 2022
A breathtaking Science Fiction collaboration by Jasper T. Scott and Nathan Hystad delicately balances a puzzled but dedicated treasure hunter on a lifelong quest to discover and link up suspected alien artifacts, and a private space corporation whose routine mission to Mars is co-opted to a mission to initiate First Contact. Intelligent life or not, something is out there, and it is aimed toward Earth. What are its intentions? Or is this simply an empty lost derelict space vessel? The crew of BeyondIII are tasked with discovering the answers.
July 6, 2023
Not bad, but borrows a LOT from other sources. Independence day and Alien feature heavily. still, I'm not put off from moving on to book 2.
July 11, 2022
A very promising start to the second collaboration series by Jasper T Scott and Nathan Hystad. A trip to Mars, a strange object floating in space and first contact. Remarkable characters keep you glued to the pages and now I'm waiting for book two.
July 24, 2022
There's a lot going on here - great characters, good adventure, and space. The whole idea is great and full of surprises and suspense. Great start to the series.
And Ray Porter. Fabulous.
And Ray Porter. Fabulous.
October 22, 2022
From Beyond is an exciting first contact novel and the opening book in a new series. It’s got some great characters and a fascinating setup. Several nations have discovered that there is a very large artificial body in the solar system, and they decide to divert a planned flight to Mars to intercept the spacecraft. At the same time, a thief on earth is trying to track down pieces of what the thinks is an extraterrestrial ship. Most of the book is dedicated to the astronaut who is the head of the intercept mission and an assassin who has been stuck on the mission with them to make certain that things go the way her puppet masters want them to. I found the plot to be both interesting and gripping, but there were several things that really irritated me also.
First, I thought the head of the mission should have resigned his commission a couple of times during the early part of the book and told his superiors (including the president of the USA) to do something anatomically difficult with themselves. Making him sign a document that says he’s committed treason if the mission fails was just ridiculous. And frankly, much of the prep made it seem as if the powers that be did not want the mission to succeed. I understand why he stayed on, but really, he shouldn’t have.
My biggest complaint, however, is the nature of the alien creatures. It has been way overused and frankly it lessened the thrill quite a bit for me. It also led to a big chunk of a science fiction book about spaceships having action more suited to a network of caves in a horror story. I thought Scott could have done a lot better here.
The best character is the assassin. I enjoyed watching her struggle with her personal issues and with her unexpected loyalty to the crew versus her mission. Her loyalty to her puppet master didn’t make a lot of sense to me, but then, it didn’t “not make sense” either. It just wasn’t adequately explained.
First, I thought the head of the mission should have resigned his commission a couple of times during the early part of the book and told his superiors (including the president of the USA) to do something anatomically difficult with themselves. Making him sign a document that says he’s committed treason if the mission fails was just ridiculous. And frankly, much of the prep made it seem as if the powers that be did not want the mission to succeed. I understand why he stayed on, but really, he shouldn’t have.
My biggest complaint, however, is the nature of the alien creatures. It has been way overused and frankly it lessened the thrill quite a bit for me. It also led to a big chunk of a science fiction book about spaceships having action more suited to a network of caves in a horror story. I thought Scott could have done a lot better here.
The best character is the assassin. I enjoyed watching her struggle with her personal issues and with her unexpected loyalty to the crew versus her mission. Her loyalty to her puppet master didn’t make a lot of sense to me, but then, it didn’t “not make sense” either. It just wasn’t adequately explained.
July 15, 2022
Good yarn but not great
The action on earth was fairly predictable, no surprises or fancy tech was introduced. The voyage to the alien ship was boring, again predictable with no surprises. The time spent in the alien ship was the meat and potatoes of the story and was interesting and choitic at the same time. Nothing was explained and the characters simply lurched from crisis to crisis. I think that a real team would have planned better and taken better advantage of the bridge controls. And as soon as violence was encountered better weapons should have been brought into the ship.
I am not sure if I will purchase book 2.
The action on earth was fairly predictable, no surprises or fancy tech was introduced. The voyage to the alien ship was boring, again predictable with no surprises. The time spent in the alien ship was the meat and potatoes of the story and was interesting and choitic at the same time. Nothing was explained and the characters simply lurched from crisis to crisis. I think that a real team would have planned better and taken better advantage of the bridge controls. And as soon as violence was encountered better weapons should have been brought into the ship.
I am not sure if I will purchase book 2.
October 27, 2022
Familiar Story
Combined the movie Alien with Arthur C Clark's Rondevous With Rama. Threw in Independence Day & then added Heinlein's Puppet Masters. If you expect this book to even be as good as even one of those you'll be disappointed.
Combined the movie Alien with Arthur C Clark's Rondevous With Rama. Threw in Independence Day & then added Heinlein's Puppet Masters. If you expect this book to even be as good as even one of those you'll be disappointed.
July 8, 2022
I just finished reading From Beyond. At the beginning of the story, it gave you a bit of the background and daily lives on all the main characters. I do like David and Lennon who are good characters with a lot of relatable characteristics and depth. I can’t wait to see what happens between Lennon and Rutger. in the future. Atlas is kind of a strange character, almost like a James Bond wannabe only with artifacts instead of espionage. He grows on you, but he is dangerous to have as a friend. Dark Leader is very mysterious and intriguing and it would be interesting to see how he will fit into what is going to happen in future stories. The entire crew of the ship Beyond were good characters. I am not too fond of the Dr. But you can’t have all the characters be likeable. There have to be a good mix like there are with regular people that do things you don't care for. Yes, there are some deaths in the story.
Spiders are the template for the aliens. They are just as creepy and deadly as you can imagine.
The story is entertaining and easy to read. It does end on a cliffhanger and you will want to know what is going to happen next. I know I do. I would recommend this story.
Spiders are the template for the aliens. They are just as creepy and deadly as you can imagine.
The story is entertaining and easy to read. It does end on a cliffhanger and you will want to know what is going to happen next. I know I do. I would recommend this story.
June 27, 2023
2.5*
This was a typical alien invasion tale that for the most part was very engaging. It often depends heavily on the use of cliches and the occasional piece of schlocky writing, for example, one of the chief protagonists is named Atlas, who is prone to shrugging. Yes, I did roll my each every time I read "Atlas shrugged."
The story involves a resourceful alien artifact hunter (the previously mentioned Atlas), a seasoned crew of private sector astronauts who crew a ship called the Beyond III, and a shadowy organization with seemingly cult-like tendencies, one of whom , Lennon, infiltrates the Beyond III's crew and this organization also recruits Atlas to assist them with their mission. Of course, the Lennon's mandate is directly at odds with the Beyond III's mission and Atlas is never sure if he can trust his new employer.
My biggest bone to pick is the sudden change of direction in the final paragraphs. Not only did it rob me of any appetite to read the sequel, but it also raised a lot of questions about the previous confrontations between the crew of the Beyond III and the inhabitants of the Interloper.
This was a typical alien invasion tale that for the most part was very engaging. It often depends heavily on the use of cliches and the occasional piece of schlocky writing, for example, one of the chief protagonists is named Atlas, who is prone to shrugging. Yes, I did roll my each every time I read "Atlas shrugged."
The story involves a resourceful alien artifact hunter (the previously mentioned Atlas), a seasoned crew of private sector astronauts who crew a ship called the Beyond III, and a shadowy organization with seemingly cult-like tendencies, one of whom , Lennon, infiltrates the Beyond III's crew and this organization also recruits Atlas to assist them with their mission. Of course, the Lennon's mandate is directly at odds with the Beyond III's mission and Atlas is never sure if he can trust his new employer.
My biggest bone to pick is the sudden change of direction in the final paragraphs. Not only did it rob me of any appetite to read the sequel, but it also raised a lot of questions about the previous confrontations between the crew of the Beyond III and the inhabitants of the Interloper.
August 16, 2022
I've read a number of books by both of these authors and I'll admit that they both have a weird way of writing stories. There's always something different about their books, but I honestly can't say what it is. This one is no different. This is a different kind of story although it will start out just like any other space story, but then it turns scary, very scary!
Earth has gone beyond the Moon and currently has a colony on Mars. There are routine scheduled flights between Earth and Mars to ensure the colony is sustained. That's what you would expect from any kind of venture like a Mars colony. The next mission to Mars is scheduled for about four months from now and will be commanded by Commander David Bryce. He works for the ORB (Orbital Development Group) which is apparently in charge of all Earth space mission under contract to the government. His upcoming mission was to be in four months, as stated, until it wasn't!
They came to get Commander Bryce while he was enjoying some family time. Four guys in sunglasses and dark suits that didn't talk a whole lot. They took him all the way to an a waiting jet aircraft which took off very, very fast to deliver him to Washington D. C. From there he was driven to an underground garage and then to an interesting and unexpected meeting that changed his life forever!
During the meeting, Commander Bryce was informed that his mission had changed. Instead of a launch in four months, he was going to launch in one week. His orders came direct from the President of the United States. He wasn't going to Mars, but to investigate an unknown space object currently heading towards the sun. This object appeared to be an alien spaceship about a mile and a half long. Earth had nothing closely resembling that size in space. So, it had to come from some where, obviously not Earth. Specifically, David and his crew were to reach the Interloper (the name given to this alien vessel), board it and find why it's here, who sent it and why they want. While he had expected his trip to Mars to last some where around eighteen months, his ship, Beyond III, would only require four months to reach the alien vessel if it didn't stray from its current course. Once at the objective, they would stay twelve days, and then have to slingshot around Mercury in order to return to Earth. Any deviation from that schedule would likely mean the Beyond III wouldn't make it back to Earth!
So, that's the mission and it seems a pretty straight-forward operation if you can classify Earth's first contact with an alien vessel as a normal mission. Before leaving all the crew had to sign Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs) which prevented them from talking about the mission to anyone outside the crew. The general public wasn't aware of the alien vessel and wasn't going to be told about it until David and his crew could find out more to tell them. David was confident that his crew could accomplish the mission until he found that his co-pilot had been suddenly changed. Now a Lennon Baxter was assigned as his co-pilot and mission specialist. Apparently his former co-pilot had a car accident braking a leg and fracturing a few ribs. David didn't know this new person and he was highly suspicious how she just happened to be available on such short notice while apparently being highly qualified for the position. It turns out that Lennon Baxter is working for someone other than David!
Along with the Beyond III mission, you'll also read about Atlas Donovan, a young man who is in pursuit of some strange artifacts. He's gone all over Earth trying to find evidence of a possible alien spaceship that had either crash or exploded over southeast Asia in 1966. He was in possession of several small pieces of what he thought were parts of the spaceship, but he was searching for more. He didn't know about the recent finding in space, the other alien spaceship, but he just wanted to prove his theory that Earth had been previously visited by aliens. Honestly, I don't know what his part of the story has to do with the Beyond III mission, but it's a thread you'll have to read.
There are also other things going on in the background that are kept very secret, but it doesn't seem all that necessary. For example, Lennon Baxter was assigned to the Beyond III mission because she was a former special operator working for a former General. She gets reinstated into dark ops because she has been instructed to make sure the alien vessel is destroyed. No explanation as to why that must be done. Commander Bryce isn't aware of Lennon Baxter's dual mission or the fact that she had some special weapons and explosives aboard the Beyond III. This part of the book also seems kind of necessary as you'll eventually find out.
So, what happens when the Beyond III reaches the Interloper? You'll want to know now, but you won't later. it's an alien vessel heading for our sun and that should be just fine, until it turns towards Earth! This ship can't reach Earth! It must not reach Earth!
I'm not sure I'm going to read the next book in this series. I just don't like somethings about the story. I'll leave it a that, but book 2, "Signal", is available on Amazon and unfortunately I do have it on my reading list, for now!
Earth has gone beyond the Moon and currently has a colony on Mars. There are routine scheduled flights between Earth and Mars to ensure the colony is sustained. That's what you would expect from any kind of venture like a Mars colony. The next mission to Mars is scheduled for about four months from now and will be commanded by Commander David Bryce. He works for the ORB (Orbital Development Group) which is apparently in charge of all Earth space mission under contract to the government. His upcoming mission was to be in four months, as stated, until it wasn't!
They came to get Commander Bryce while he was enjoying some family time. Four guys in sunglasses and dark suits that didn't talk a whole lot. They took him all the way to an a waiting jet aircraft which took off very, very fast to deliver him to Washington D. C. From there he was driven to an underground garage and then to an interesting and unexpected meeting that changed his life forever!
During the meeting, Commander Bryce was informed that his mission had changed. Instead of a launch in four months, he was going to launch in one week. His orders came direct from the President of the United States. He wasn't going to Mars, but to investigate an unknown space object currently heading towards the sun. This object appeared to be an alien spaceship about a mile and a half long. Earth had nothing closely resembling that size in space. So, it had to come from some where, obviously not Earth. Specifically, David and his crew were to reach the Interloper (the name given to this alien vessel), board it and find why it's here, who sent it and why they want. While he had expected his trip to Mars to last some where around eighteen months, his ship, Beyond III, would only require four months to reach the alien vessel if it didn't stray from its current course. Once at the objective, they would stay twelve days, and then have to slingshot around Mercury in order to return to Earth. Any deviation from that schedule would likely mean the Beyond III wouldn't make it back to Earth!
So, that's the mission and it seems a pretty straight-forward operation if you can classify Earth's first contact with an alien vessel as a normal mission. Before leaving all the crew had to sign Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs) which prevented them from talking about the mission to anyone outside the crew. The general public wasn't aware of the alien vessel and wasn't going to be told about it until David and his crew could find out more to tell them. David was confident that his crew could accomplish the mission until he found that his co-pilot had been suddenly changed. Now a Lennon Baxter was assigned as his co-pilot and mission specialist. Apparently his former co-pilot had a car accident braking a leg and fracturing a few ribs. David didn't know this new person and he was highly suspicious how she just happened to be available on such short notice while apparently being highly qualified for the position. It turns out that Lennon Baxter is working for someone other than David!
Along with the Beyond III mission, you'll also read about Atlas Donovan, a young man who is in pursuit of some strange artifacts. He's gone all over Earth trying to find evidence of a possible alien spaceship that had either crash or exploded over southeast Asia in 1966. He was in possession of several small pieces of what he thought were parts of the spaceship, but he was searching for more. He didn't know about the recent finding in space, the other alien spaceship, but he just wanted to prove his theory that Earth had been previously visited by aliens. Honestly, I don't know what his part of the story has to do with the Beyond III mission, but it's a thread you'll have to read.
There are also other things going on in the background that are kept very secret, but it doesn't seem all that necessary. For example, Lennon Baxter was assigned to the Beyond III mission because she was a former special operator working for a former General. She gets reinstated into dark ops because she has been instructed to make sure the alien vessel is destroyed. No explanation as to why that must be done. Commander Bryce isn't aware of Lennon Baxter's dual mission or the fact that she had some special weapons and explosives aboard the Beyond III. This part of the book also seems kind of necessary as you'll eventually find out.
So, what happens when the Beyond III reaches the Interloper? You'll want to know now, but you won't later. it's an alien vessel heading for our sun and that should be just fine, until it turns towards Earth! This ship can't reach Earth! It must not reach Earth!
I'm not sure I'm going to read the next book in this series. I just don't like somethings about the story. I'll leave it a that, but book 2, "Signal", is available on Amazon and unfortunately I do have it on my reading list, for now!
December 6, 2022
From Beyond is the first in a Sci-Fi Thriller that follows multiple different story arcs. This is a story set in the not-too-distant future, in which there is a colony on Mars, and regular missions back and forth. At the start of the story, we meet David Bryce, the commander of the Mars missions, who is informed that he is to make a sudden change to his planned next mission to Mars, to intercept an alien ship. The ship has wandered into our solar system, but there is no idea of who or what this ‘Interloper’ is, just that it is not from our solar system.
At the same time as this is unfolding, we are introduced to Lennon Baxter, a former special agent who is somewhat unhinged, due to an operation that did not end well. However, she has been recalled to active duty to take a role in the mission.
Along with the rest of the crew, Carter, Zasha, Liu, and Akira, David and Lennon are sent off into space to go and meet this mysterious ‘Interloper’ and discover what it is, who or what is onboard, and discover why it has come to our system.
In another part of the story, we meet Atlas Donovan, who at first appears to be a like a secret agent, stealing artifacts for rich collectors. However, we soon learn that he is a man who is obsessed with a particular type of artifact, and has been on a mission for most of his adult life. He is looking for what he believes to be pieces of an alien space craft, he thinks he has one, a piece he got from his Father years ago. At the start of the book, we find him trying to acquire a second piece.
Events unfold rapidly in this book, with the mission to the Interloper happening quickly (and I do NOT want to give away any spoilers there), and at the same time, Atlas on his mission to find pieces of the alien spacecraft back on Earth. What seem to be two unrelated storylines though (funnily enough!), have an odd way of being connected.
This is a book that starts off with some interesting character building and some interesting storylines, and then explodes into a fast-paced thriller in which you just can’t read fast enough to find out what happens next.
The character work in this book is Hystad and Scott at their absolute best, with so many amazing characters to follow. Bryce is outstanding as the Family man who is trapped into going on this mission, and once there, realises he is just way out of his league. But at the same time, he has been doing this for a long time, he is not the Commander of the missions for no reason, and we get to see why he is the leader in so many ways in this book. His motivations as the Father figure are also incredibly powerful, and as a father myself, I really understood where he was coming from so many times in this book. Lennon Baxter is the Special Ops Soldier who has returned from her last operation with a severe case of PTSD after losing someone close to her. It has left her broken and on the edge, and we the character work in this book ix exceptional at conveying just how much psychological damage she has taken. As someone who deals with PTSD on a daily basis, I could empathise with Lennon’s pain, but more than that, I could understand her drive in other parts of the book to. Lennon is a really fascinating and complex character.
The other characters in this book are fantastic, Carter as the Linguist is hilarious, and has a lot of courage when pushed. Zasha is wonderful as the Engineer, Liu is brilliant as the Dr, and provides an interesting insight on aspects of the Interloper that really make for fascinating reading. His character is intriguing. Akira is another captivating character.
Together the crew makes for an interesting dynamic.
Atlas is a really fascinating character, from the first scene, his obsession with the artifacts, and finding out where they came from and what they are. He is driven by this compulsive need to understand.
One of the really exceptional parts of this story is the world-building, which makes it something very different from other stories of this genre. The Interloper is something a bit different, but what they find there is something very different, and creates an absolutely stunning thriller that you just can’t put down. Add to that the elements of the story that relate to Atlas’s hunt, in which the world-building is just outstanding, and this is a really outstanding bit of story-telling.
Hystad and Scott have really outdone themselves on this occasion, as once you start this, you won’t be able to put it down, and you will be desperate to get the second and third books also!!
This is one series that is not to be missed and is one of the Stand-outs for the year!!
At the same time as this is unfolding, we are introduced to Lennon Baxter, a former special agent who is somewhat unhinged, due to an operation that did not end well. However, she has been recalled to active duty to take a role in the mission.
Along with the rest of the crew, Carter, Zasha, Liu, and Akira, David and Lennon are sent off into space to go and meet this mysterious ‘Interloper’ and discover what it is, who or what is onboard, and discover why it has come to our system.
In another part of the story, we meet Atlas Donovan, who at first appears to be a like a secret agent, stealing artifacts for rich collectors. However, we soon learn that he is a man who is obsessed with a particular type of artifact, and has been on a mission for most of his adult life. He is looking for what he believes to be pieces of an alien space craft, he thinks he has one, a piece he got from his Father years ago. At the start of the book, we find him trying to acquire a second piece.
Events unfold rapidly in this book, with the mission to the Interloper happening quickly (and I do NOT want to give away any spoilers there), and at the same time, Atlas on his mission to find pieces of the alien spacecraft back on Earth. What seem to be two unrelated storylines though (funnily enough!), have an odd way of being connected.
This is a book that starts off with some interesting character building and some interesting storylines, and then explodes into a fast-paced thriller in which you just can’t read fast enough to find out what happens next.
The character work in this book is Hystad and Scott at their absolute best, with so many amazing characters to follow. Bryce is outstanding as the Family man who is trapped into going on this mission, and once there, realises he is just way out of his league. But at the same time, he has been doing this for a long time, he is not the Commander of the missions for no reason, and we get to see why he is the leader in so many ways in this book. His motivations as the Father figure are also incredibly powerful, and as a father myself, I really understood where he was coming from so many times in this book. Lennon Baxter is the Special Ops Soldier who has returned from her last operation with a severe case of PTSD after losing someone close to her. It has left her broken and on the edge, and we the character work in this book ix exceptional at conveying just how much psychological damage she has taken. As someone who deals with PTSD on a daily basis, I could empathise with Lennon’s pain, but more than that, I could understand her drive in other parts of the book to. Lennon is a really fascinating and complex character.
The other characters in this book are fantastic, Carter as the Linguist is hilarious, and has a lot of courage when pushed. Zasha is wonderful as the Engineer, Liu is brilliant as the Dr, and provides an interesting insight on aspects of the Interloper that really make for fascinating reading. His character is intriguing. Akira is another captivating character.
Together the crew makes for an interesting dynamic.
Atlas is a really fascinating character, from the first scene, his obsession with the artifacts, and finding out where they came from and what they are. He is driven by this compulsive need to understand.
One of the really exceptional parts of this story is the world-building, which makes it something very different from other stories of this genre. The Interloper is something a bit different, but what they find there is something very different, and creates an absolutely stunning thriller that you just can’t put down. Add to that the elements of the story that relate to Atlas’s hunt, in which the world-building is just outstanding, and this is a really outstanding bit of story-telling.
Hystad and Scott have really outdone themselves on this occasion, as once you start this, you won’t be able to put it down, and you will be desperate to get the second and third books also!!
This is one series that is not to be missed and is one of the Stand-outs for the year!!
April 19, 2024
Not my cup of tea
This was a decent story, but I don’t enjoy books where a large number of people die unnecessarily. I realize that in a thriller like this that there will be deaths, but too many makes me start to quit caring about anyone.
When the “good guys” do too many bad things it quits being fun for me. Then add in extremely unbelievable incidents where people survive disasters that don’t seem survivable and I just can’t enjoy the story.
Threats no longer seem real when your protagonist lives through too many events that would have killed anyone else. I start to lose any tension because I know that they will survive ANYTHING no matter how impossible.
Finally throw in the addition of someone who has no real reason to be included in the secrets but for some strange and unsupported reason is given the entire secret, and the story just lost all meaning to me.
The book ends on a cliff hanger and I just can’t bring myself to read the next one, it just isn’t worth all that in order to find out where the plot goes.
It’s not a terrible book. But I’m going to try others.
This was a decent story, but I don’t enjoy books where a large number of people die unnecessarily. I realize that in a thriller like this that there will be deaths, but too many makes me start to quit caring about anyone.
When the “good guys” do too many bad things it quits being fun for me. Then add in extremely unbelievable incidents where people survive disasters that don’t seem survivable and I just can’t enjoy the story.
Threats no longer seem real when your protagonist lives through too many events that would have killed anyone else. I start to lose any tension because I know that they will survive ANYTHING no matter how impossible.
Finally throw in the addition of someone who has no real reason to be included in the secrets but for some strange and unsupported reason is given the entire secret, and the story just lost all meaning to me.
The book ends on a cliff hanger and I just can’t bring myself to read the next one, it just isn’t worth all that in order to find out where the plot goes.
It’s not a terrible book. But I’m going to try others.
July 30, 2022
Two of my favorite sci-fi authors have combined for this action-packed start of a promising series. The discovery of a strange asteroid headed close to the Sun is identified as an alien spacecraft; the decision is made to intercept it. The quickest method is to change the Beyond III resupply mission to Mars and speed up its departure. A key crew member incurs a strange ‘accident’; her replacement appears to have a hidden agenda. The authors set up the strong main characters and explore their talents and personalities. They provide a look at the political undercurrents at play to set up multiple sub plots. Tension builds as mechanical failures en route cause fuel leaks that severely limit whether they can return to Earth. The action speeds up as the crew boards the spacecraft and the aliens defend their territory. Brief skirmishes there and glimpses of alien activities on Earth give a clue to the next part of the series. I read for escape and entertainment – I was not disappointed, and I’m eager to read the rest of this series.
August 8, 2022
A Great Start
With the book splitting into two directions. One Atlas and the other David and Lennon. Atlas is searching for Alien artefacts on earth and the other guys are on a secret mission to intercept said aliens who are just drifting in space heading towards the sun! So your bloke on terra firma is being chased and being almost assassinated numerous times to get to his goal, the astronaut team are waiting to see if it's friend of foe with numerous things that can go wrong in space awaiting them!
As usual it's enjoyable.stuff from two greats authors teaming up together.
I'll probably get the audio book as well soon. I'm starting the next book almost right away. Have the ARC to this but I have been so busy & by the time I downloaded the copy it was due out the next day or so anyway. Book two is due out tomorrow so I will just get that instead of using the ARC. I hope you have some waiting for my vacation in September/October when I fully concentrate on them then Jasper? Brilliant stuff anyway get it.
With the book splitting into two directions. One Atlas and the other David and Lennon. Atlas is searching for Alien artefacts on earth and the other guys are on a secret mission to intercept said aliens who are just drifting in space heading towards the sun! So your bloke on terra firma is being chased and being almost assassinated numerous times to get to his goal, the astronaut team are waiting to see if it's friend of foe with numerous things that can go wrong in space awaiting them!
As usual it's enjoyable.stuff from two greats authors teaming up together.
I'll probably get the audio book as well soon. I'm starting the next book almost right away. Have the ARC to this but I have been so busy & by the time I downloaded the copy it was due out the next day or so anyway. Book two is due out tomorrow so I will just get that instead of using the ARC. I hope you have some waiting for my vacation in September/October when I fully concentrate on them then Jasper? Brilliant stuff anyway get it.
July 6, 2022
Trip to Mars
David, Atlas & Lennon. David is a commander for ORB and is set to launch for a mission to Mars. Atlas is a collector of rare artifacts and is searching for what he believes is from a being from space. Lennon is a former special ops or dark ops stuck in a place she hates and secretly wants to get back into her old life.
Atlas is on the verge of collecting another piece for his collection when he is almost killed for it. He has no clue who on the other hand is searching for the same pieces.
David is surprised to learn that his mission has been bumped up and his crew has been changed. He surprised to learn of one his crew members was replaced by Lennon. Lennon is excited to be back to work but struggles with her humanity and if she can complete her mission that needs to be kept secret which is easy since she has no clue what her mission is. This mission must succeed or we could possibly have an extinction level event.
David, Atlas & Lennon. David is a commander for ORB and is set to launch for a mission to Mars. Atlas is a collector of rare artifacts and is searching for what he believes is from a being from space. Lennon is a former special ops or dark ops stuck in a place she hates and secretly wants to get back into her old life.
Atlas is on the verge of collecting another piece for his collection when he is almost killed for it. He has no clue who on the other hand is searching for the same pieces.
David is surprised to learn that his mission has been bumped up and his crew has been changed. He surprised to learn of one his crew members was replaced by Lennon. Lennon is excited to be back to work but struggles with her humanity and if she can complete her mission that needs to be kept secret which is easy since she has no clue what her mission is. This mission must succeed or we could possibly have an extinction level event.
July 9, 2022
♥️💚🌍🚀 INCREDIBLE SUSPENSE!
Lake Como, Italy:
The scenery was one of the most splendid Atlas had ever seen without his life.
He paused for a moment in front of the security guard who was screening the guests of the famous Mattia Barone.
He hoped to be able to enter, because everything was fake at Atlas, from the luxury car to the expensive suit...
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EXCELLENT DISCOVERY for this incredible science fiction novel that you cannot put down once opened!
I found the original background story, with an incredible suspense that kept me awake for long hours.
A beautiful page-turner to discover, with such attractive and well thought out/imagined characters.
I loved following the evolution of David, Atlas and Lennon...
I did not yet know the two authors and I deeply regret not having immersed myself in their adventure books until now.
I wholeheartedly recommend this incredible read!
I can't wait to read the sequel!
♥️💚🌍🚀
July 10, 2022
When two top selling authors collaborate and produce something like From Beyond you know that your in for a fantastic read and ride.
From Beyond doesn’t disappoint.
The collaboration is seamless, flowing from one location to the other.
All of the characters are believable with very interesting backgrounds and progressions.
I enjoyed the subtle changes and twists that come about through various circumstances and events.
This fast paced adventure develops and grows with each page.
I found it hard to put down.
The adversaries are the type that nightmares would dread. They are formidable, deadly and numerous.
From Beyond perfectly sets up the unexpected scenario cliff-hanger for the next book.
I found the book enjoyable, entirely satisfying and complete in it self.
While having you hanging on for the next instalment.
From Beyond doesn’t disappoint.
The collaboration is seamless, flowing from one location to the other.
All of the characters are believable with very interesting backgrounds and progressions.
I enjoyed the subtle changes and twists that come about through various circumstances and events.
This fast paced adventure develops and grows with each page.
I found it hard to put down.
The adversaries are the type that nightmares would dread. They are formidable, deadly and numerous.
From Beyond perfectly sets up the unexpected scenario cliff-hanger for the next book.
I found the book enjoyable, entirely satisfying and complete in it self.
While having you hanging on for the next instalment.
September 29, 2023
I recall already having read this book before, but was very glad to re-read it. There are little nuances that I missed the first time. Lennon Baxter was working for an aircraft mechanic shop for years, and living in a trailer in the middle of nowhere. Then she finally gets the call back to her old life. She gets to go up to space to intercept a foreign spacecraft. But this is no little green men they find. It's really quite terrifying. And let's not forget Atlas Donovan, searching frantically for pieces of a meteorite that came down in the 1960s. But he's not the only one searching. And he's being watched. What an exciting story about space travel and the foreign space travelers aboard. Well done Jasper T Scott and Nathan Hystad. Looking forward to reading the next book in this series, even if I have nightmares. Thanks guys!
July 6, 2022
This is one of those books which keeps you on the edge of your seat.
All of Jasper T Scott and Nathan Hystad's books have kept me wanting to read more. They are always interesting and full of adventure.
An alien craft is discovered floating in space and the team of astronauts who were going to resupply Mars Base are sent to investigate. Among them is a substitute astronaut who has a private agenda.
Also, there is the story of a man's search for alien artifacts on earth, but someone is trying to kill him to stop him. The two stories are linked.
This book is full of hazards, entertainment, is fast paced and enjoyable.
This story has a "wow" ending which leaves it open for the next book.
I received a copy of this book from the author/s.
All of Jasper T Scott and Nathan Hystad's books have kept me wanting to read more. They are always interesting and full of adventure.
An alien craft is discovered floating in space and the team of astronauts who were going to resupply Mars Base are sent to investigate. Among them is a substitute astronaut who has a private agenda.
Also, there is the story of a man's search for alien artifacts on earth, but someone is trying to kill him to stop him. The two stories are linked.
This book is full of hazards, entertainment, is fast paced and enjoyable.
This story has a "wow" ending which leaves it open for the next book.
I received a copy of this book from the author/s.
July 9, 2022
The Beyond III resupply mission has been preempted to investigate a mysterious asteroid on a decaying orbit to the Sun. Closer investigation showed that the asteroid was an alien spacecraft. The Beyond III crew, minus one, is being sent to investigate, except for the new co-pilot whose secret orders will destroy it!
A mysterious alien craft, codenamed 'Interloper', a fragmented crew and monstrous aliens from the worst nightmares form the characters and storyline for this 'first contact' scenario. But it's never what it appears at first glance. Tried and true authors combine to create the opening salvo for an explosive new series! This is a great read!
A mysterious alien craft, codenamed 'Interloper', a fragmented crew and monstrous aliens from the worst nightmares form the characters and storyline for this 'first contact' scenario. But it's never what it appears at first glance. Tried and true authors combine to create the opening salvo for an explosive new series! This is a great read!
July 10, 2022
A different kind of space syfy
Very riveting and unusual space adventure. Good character development. A seasoned crew is called upon for an emergency resupply mission to Mars. A new crew member replaces a member that had a suspicious accident. The new crew member has a different agenda than the original crew. Just as the mission is about to start they are informed that their mission is not what they thought it was. The new mission and the danger that the crew experience makes for a very exciting and unexpected story. Scott and Hystad have outdone themself with this series.
Very riveting and unusual space adventure. Good character development. A seasoned crew is called upon for an emergency resupply mission to Mars. A new crew member replaces a member that had a suspicious accident. The new crew member has a different agenda than the original crew. Just as the mission is about to start they are informed that their mission is not what they thought it was. The new mission and the danger that the crew experience makes for a very exciting and unexpected story. Scott and Hystad have outdone themself with this series.
July 23, 2022
From Beyond - a thrilling new book
Two of the better Sci-Fi writers together - again. I knew this would be a good story. I was not disappointed. From beginning to end, the reader is pulled into the possibility of an Earth threatening event from an alien - maybe derelict spacecraft. There is also an interesting investigation going on in obscure places on Earth. As you follow the characters through each chapter, the tension, the mystery and the threat increases. You do not want to miss this new series. If you enjoy audible performances, you will not be disappointed with the companion Audible book.
Two of the better Sci-Fi writers together - again. I knew this would be a good story. I was not disappointed. From beginning to end, the reader is pulled into the possibility of an Earth threatening event from an alien - maybe derelict spacecraft. There is also an interesting investigation going on in obscure places on Earth. As you follow the characters through each chapter, the tension, the mystery and the threat increases. You do not want to miss this new series. If you enjoy audible performances, you will not be disappointed with the companion Audible book.
July 5, 2022
I really enjoyed From Beyond as the first entry in a new series by two of my favourite authors, Nathan Hystad and Jasper T. Scott.
This is a very fast paced and somewhat scary story that takes place in the near future. It's an interesting take on first contact.
There are two plots running at the same time that appear to have very little to do with each other, but their connection is revealed later in the book.
Highly recommended. I can't imagine where this story is headed, but I am definitely looking forward to book two.
This is a very fast paced and somewhat scary story that takes place in the near future. It's an interesting take on first contact.
There are two plots running at the same time that appear to have very little to do with each other, but their connection is revealed later in the book.
Highly recommended. I can't imagine where this story is headed, but I am definitely looking forward to book two.
August 10, 2022
New look at how we should prepare yet still fail.. Almost.
Good development of personality for each driver in the story the struggle to care being clouded by get "the mod done"'.
Fast moving with an events that keep you reading working out the next step and hoping you are the one who makes the move that gives us all " one more shot" at being right. Scott and Hystad build a story that keeps you hungry for more seeking the key to who be the one or the many who can save us. Leaders that lead and think acting purely to get thing right and fight to fix the mistakes.
Good development of personality for each driver in the story the struggle to care being clouded by get "the mod done"'.
Fast moving with an events that keep you reading working out the next step and hoping you are the one who makes the move that gives us all " one more shot" at being right. Scott and Hystad build a story that keeps you hungry for more seeking the key to who be the one or the many who can save us. Leaders that lead and think acting purely to get thing right and fight to fix the mistakes.
October 22, 2022
I finished this last night and it was pretty good. I liked that it kept moving from David to Atlas to Lennon just so you could see what was going on where. The spiders were a little creepy for me though. You all know how most women HATE spiders. And then to find out they made it to earth? Jeez, who wants alien spiders landing on earth?
There was no swearing, which I found totally ridiculous. If you're being chased by deadly spiders YOU ARE GOING TO SWEAR, I don't care who you are.
As for the narration: The BEST ever, Ray Porter.
There was no swearing, which I found totally ridiculous. If you're being chased by deadly spiders YOU ARE GOING TO SWEAR, I don't care who you are.
As for the narration: The BEST ever, Ray Porter.
May 30, 2023
When I originally learned that this book was part of a series, all I said was, "I'll just try this book." I eventually added the second and third novels to my library while reading this one. I'm currently reading book two.
My body clock has already stopped working. Always saying, "Just one more chapter and I will sleep," only to discover that it is already past my bedtime.
I enjoy all the characters and the way you may kill off a character to add more personality. It takes various turns while revealing the story's true plot.
My body clock has already stopped working. Always saying, "Just one more chapter and I will sleep," only to discover that it is already past my bedtime.
I enjoy all the characters and the way you may kill off a character to add more personality. It takes various turns while revealing the story's true plot.
October 10, 2023
Frankly in any case of a pending first contact with aliens, there are always a million possible scenarios and just every single one of them contain an element of one or other snafu happening. Talk of frightening!
David Bryce never expected to become the leader of such a possible first contact. Nor did he really expect what awaited him when the Beyond 111 caught up with a suspected alien craft a couple of kilometers long.
From Beyond is unexpectedly aptly named in broadening terms as the plot and surprises unfolds.
And your fingers starts aching for all that rapid page flicking.
Enjoy.
David Bryce never expected to become the leader of such a possible first contact. Nor did he really expect what awaited him when the Beyond 111 caught up with a suspected alien craft a couple of kilometers long.
From Beyond is unexpectedly aptly named in broadening terms as the plot and surprises unfolds.
And your fingers starts aching for all that rapid page flicking.
Enjoy.
July 23, 2024
A mashup of books you've probably already read, and missing any original thoughts to bring it to life.
Incredibly predictable, tropey unrealistic characters, pulp scifi. It's not that it's awful, it's just not good. Astronauts chatter about things they should already know, there's a super duper secret, highly organized government conspiracy, everyone's an action hero, aliens are exactly what you'd expect. It's a basic book full of basic ideas with basic writing. It's fine. Not sure if I'll continue the series - it passes the time.
Incredibly predictable, tropey unrealistic characters, pulp scifi. It's not that it's awful, it's just not good. Astronauts chatter about things they should already know, there's a super duper secret, highly organized government conspiracy, everyone's an action hero, aliens are exactly what you'd expect. It's a basic book full of basic ideas with basic writing. It's fine. Not sure if I'll continue the series - it passes the time.
July 10, 2022
Amazing Start
If you enjoyed the alien films you will love this. It's got everything an alien spacecraft heading towards our sun and a mission to intercept it. Plus a covert organisation searching earth for alien artifacts. Great action sequences and amazing alien creatures. A nonstop rollercoaster ride really looking forward to the next installment. Definitely recommend this book
If you enjoyed the alien films you will love this. It's got everything an alien spacecraft heading towards our sun and a mission to intercept it. Plus a covert organisation searching earth for alien artifacts. Great action sequences and amazing alien creatures. A nonstop rollercoaster ride really looking forward to the next installment. Definitely recommend this book
April 19, 2024
weird logic
This book is fairly well written and probable edited. The basic proposition that the visitors whose ship it is, are violent and vicious when a group of aliens (humans) have latched onto their ship, made a lovely hole in it, shot at them, killed some and wandered around as if they owned the place is bizarre. And there is a conspiracy going on at home on Earth. There is at least one more book which I won’t be reading.
This book is fairly well written and probable edited. The basic proposition that the visitors whose ship it is, are violent and vicious when a group of aliens (humans) have latched onto their ship, made a lovely hole in it, shot at them, killed some and wandered around as if they owned the place is bizarre. And there is a conspiracy going on at home on Earth. There is at least one more book which I won’t be reading.
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