Unlock Adventure with The Recruit – A Free Novel Set in the Rifters Universe.

Fantasy, Science Fiction Books, Speculative Fiction / /

 

Do you love thrilling adventures, ancient mysteries, and secrets lurking in quiet towns? If so, you’re in for a treat! I’m excited to offer you The Recruit, FREE. This novel is an exciting prequel to The Rifters series. All you need to do is join the MPax Dimension.

The Recruit, A Rifters Adventure

Charming Moon Knight seems like she has her future all figured out. A safe, predictable career in paleontology with options for steady teaching jobs or staying in academia. But that’s not what she craves. Instead of lecture halls, Charming yearns for the excitement of discovery, the thrill of fieldwork, and the untold mysteries of the past.

When an unexpected invitation arrives from the Paleo Institute in Settler, Oregon, promising hands-on fieldwork and the opportunity to study Mesozoic marine dinosaurs, Charming can’t resist the lure of something more. Settler is a quiet town nestled within an ancient caldera—peaceful, serene, and seemingly perfect. But as Charming’s arrival stirs strange visions and an undeniable connection to the enigmatic Earl Blacke, she begins to suspect that this sleepy little town might not be what it seems.

As Charming delves deeper into the community, she uncovers a truth hidden beneath the surface: Settler is guarding a portal—a rift in the forest where creatures from other universes slip through. And all the while, a group known as the Rifters watches over this fragile world, ensuring that nothing slips through that shouldn’t.

But for Charming, this quiet town might be more than just a place for fieldwork—it could be her destiny, if she’s willing to face the unknown and everything that comes with it.

Why You’ll Love The Recruit

  • Mystery and Adventure: Dive into a world of ancient creatures, secret societies, and the unexpected as Charming discovers a hidden side of the world she never imagined.

  • A Strong Female Lead: Charming is smart, driven, and curious—perfect for readers who enjoy characters who are more than capable of tackling the unknown.

  • The Rifters Universe: The Recruit is set in the world of The Rifters series, offering a thrilling sneak peek at the larger adventure to come.

Get Your FREE Copy Now!

The Recruit is completely FREE to anyone who joins the MPax Dimension mailing list. You’ll get early access to updates, behind-the-scenes peeks at upcoming projects, and, of course, this exciting short adventure set in the Rifters universe!

Ready to start reading? Just click the link below to join the MPax Dimension and claim your free copy of The Recruit today!

Get The Recruit

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#Fantasy Worth Reading: A Court of Thorns and Roses #BookReview

Book Review, Fantasy, Science Fiction Books / /

 

🌹 A Court of Thorns and Roses: A Twisted and Engaging Retelling

review A court of thorns and roses

I recently finished A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas, and I have to say, I’m impressed! At first, the story reminded me a lot of a retelling and reimagining of Beauty and the Beast—which, if you know me, I love. But while there are some similarities, this book brings so much more to the table than just a typical fairy-tale retelling.

A Familiar Yet Unpredictable Adventure

On the surface, A Court of Thorns and Roses follows a storyline that might seem familiar—an ordinary young woman who is thrust into a magical world and has to navigate a complicated relationship with a cursed beast. However, as you dive into the world Maas has created, you’ll quickly realize it’s so much more than that.

This is a world where fairies aren’t necessarily the kindly, whimsical creatures you might expect. Instead, they have their own agendas and aren’t always as nice as they seem. The twists and turns in this story kept me on my toes, and I loved how Maas subverted expectations at every corner. More than once, the book surprised me, and I found myself eagerly turning the pages to see what would happen next.

World-Building and Complex Characters

One of the standout features of A Court of Thorns and Roses is the world-building. Maas creates a richly detailed and immersive world that feels both magical and dangerous. The realm of the Fae is beautifully crafted, full of mystery and intrigue. I could practically feel the magic pulsing through the pages.

Equally impressive are the characters. Feyre, the protagonist, is both strong and vulnerable, with a depth that I didn’t expect. The relationships she navigates are complicated, layered with emotion and hidden motivations. This isn’t just a story about a girl and a beast—it’s a journey of survival, power, and self-discovery. The characters’ complexities added so much richness to the plot, and I found myself invested in their growth throughout the story.

Final Thoughts

Overall, A Court of Thorns and Roses is a captivating read that blends familiar fairy-tale elements with unexpected twists. With great world-building, compelling characters, and a plot full of surprises, I thoroughly enjoyed the adventure. This book has me hooked, and I’m definitely planning to read more of the series to see where it goes.

Happy reading, and here’s to more magical adventures! ✨

 

 

 

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Inner Sol vs. Outer Sol

World Building Spotlight / /

The Great Divide in the Squad 51 Universe

Inner versus Outer Sol

It’s not just space that separates the Inner and Outer Sol colonies. It’s history, power, and a whole lot of snobbery.

Where the Line is Drawn

The line is unofficial but sharp. Everything from Earth out to Saturn is considered Inner Sol. Beyond Saturn—Uranus, Neptune, the Kuiper Belt, and all the scattered rocks and moons in between—is Outer Sol.

The division isn’t just geography. It’s about status.

A History of Control

The Inner Sol colonies were the first wave of humanity’s expansion off Earth. They got the best resources, the cushiest planets, the political power. When the corporations collapsed, those Inner Sol colonies styled themselves as the new heart of civilization.

The Outer Sol? That was something else.

The first Outer Sol colonies were built for one reason: exploitation. They were outposts set up to mine, harvest, and ship resources back to the Inner Sol, supporting their “civilized” lifestyles. The Outer Sol became a dumping ground. Some colonies were founded by workers bound to brutal contracts, others by people the Inner Sol didn’t want.

If that sounds familiar, history repeats itself, even among the stars.

The Mini Suns and the Fight for Independence

It was the invention of the mini suns that changed everything.

The Outer Sol colonies were barely hanging on. Far from the Sun’s warmth, survival was a daily struggle. The Inner Sol colonies developed technology to create artificial suns, claiming they’d “graciously” share them with their struggling cousins.

But the Outer Sol didn’t wait to be rescued.

In a bold move during the second rebellion, the Outer Sol colonies stole the plans and key components to the mini sun technology. It was risky. It was illegal. And it worked.

With access to the mini suns and the natural resources around them, the Outer Sol colonies became truly independent. They no longer needed the Inner Sol’s charity or control.

Lingering Tensions

The split left scars.

In the Inner Sol likes to pretend they’re still the center of the universe. There’s an unspoken belief that being closer to Earth makes you better—smarter, more refined, more civilized. It’s the same kind of snobbery you see in old Earth cities, where living in the right district or having the right name means everything.

In the Outer Sol, that attitude doesn’t go unnoticed. Outlings know exactly how the Inner Sol used them in the past and how quickly they’d do it again if given the chance. The Outer colonies don’t forget. They don’t trust easily. And they don’t bow to anyone.

The tension simmers beneath every alliance, every trade agreement, every conversation. It has mellowed over the decades and centuries, but it’s still there.

🚀 Curious about the worlds of Squad 51?
I’ll be sharing more behind-the-scenes looks at the history, tech, and factions of the Squad 51 universe as we countdown to the Kickstarter launch. Follow along to dive deeper into the chaos.

SQUAD 51 LAUNCH

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Project and Writing Update! Ahead of Schedule!

Dimensions Report / /

 

🚀 Salutations, interstellar voyagers! 🌟
Incoming transmission: here’s the May report on current missions, new launches, and cosmic adventures!

M. Pax upcoming releases

🚀 Project One: Completing the Space Squad 51 Series

Status: Gaining momentum!

  • Spaceberg: Currently in edits with more spit and polish, and the addition of bonus extras to make the story more immersive. Be on the look out for the launch of the new version in ebook soon! (between end of May and mid June).
  • Space Trash: First edit completed. It’s on hold for a more spit and polish and more bonus extras.
  • Space Hitched: A new addition to Space Squad 51. This bonus story comes between Space Trash and Space Weed. First round of editing is complete. It idles while I write Space Weed.
  • Space Weed: First draft done. First edit done.
  • Space Worms: Another new addition with a rough outline. This new story will be a stretch goal for Kickstarter backers. Don’t miss out!
  • Space Rock: Another new addition with a rough outline. This new story will be another stretch goal for Kickstarter backers.
  • Exciting News: I’ll be creating bonus content to make my stories more immersive from here on out. Bonus extras complete for Space Hitched and Space Weed. Some are done for Space Trash. Will add them in for Spaceberg when the first draft of Space Weed is complete.

✨ Tentative launch date set for August 5th! Sign up for the prelaunch of the Kickstarter Launch Party so you don’t miss out on anything! Launch is getting closer! PRELAUNCH

🌟 Project Two: Third Star Rising

Status: Steady as she goes!

This short story (or novella, if it decides to grow wings) is halfway plotted, with a partial draft already making its orbit.

💭 Project Three: Mood Bubbles (Working Title)

Status: Rising on the horizon!

This story’s emotional atmosphere is 75% plotted, and I can already see its sparkling potential. At an estimated 20,000+ words, it’s set to be a novella that bursts with meaning—and bubbles, of course!

🌌 Project Four: Completing the Rifters Series

Status: Charting new dimensions!

  • The Generals (Rifters Book 5): At 30% plotted, this novel is laying the foundation for epic twists and turns. My target is 70-80,000 words, and it’s going to be worth the wait!
  • Untitled (Rifters Book 6): The final installment is 5% plotted, but hey, the adventure is just beginning. My aim? Another 70-80,000 words of world-saving, dimension-bending awesomeness.

🚀Project Five: Serial, Shroomtopia

Status: In progress on my new Discord channel, Paxport. It’s a freebie. Come join me and let’s get to know each other better.  DISCORD

 

🚀Project Six: Cherry Bomb 9000

Status: Partly written. This will be the next serial on my Discord channel. Ooo. 

 

Keep your comms open for more updates, and get ready for some interstellar stories headed your way soon. One of the short stories will be a freebie for my mailing list. If you haven’t joined the M. Pax Dimension yet, well, get over there! MPAX DIMENSION

Stay tuned for cover reveals and exciting developments as I put my heart into these projects. Until then, happy reading and dreaming!

Stay tuned and peace out,
M. Pax 🚀✨

 

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Why Kickstarter is the Perfect Way to Celebrate a Series and Reward Fans

New Release, Science Fiction Books / /

SQUAD 51 KICKSTARTER

As an author, one of the most exciting things I get to do is connect with my readers in a meaningful way. And what better way to do that than through Kickstarter? It’s a platform that allows me to offer unique features and extras that aren’t available through traditional distribution channels. Plus, it lets you, my amazing readers, become part of the creation process.

For the Squad 51 series, I’m launching a Kickstarter campaign that goes beyond just the books. Here’s what you can expect:

  • Print books: You’ll get your hands on physical copies of the Squad 51 series, perfect for any bookshelf.

  • Bonus extras: Special features like artwork, behind-the-scenes content, and digital goodies will enhance your reading experience and immerse you in the world of Squad 51 even more.

  • An extra book, Space Hitched: This exclusive book will only be available through the Kickstarter campaign, offering even more of the hilarious space adventures you love.

Why Kickstarter? Because it’s not just about funding. It’s about celebrating the series and rewarding the fans who’ve been there every step of the way. I get to offer things I can’t do with traditional publishing, like limited editions, personalized rewards, and sneak peeks into the creative process.

How to Sign Up for the Squad 51 Kickstarter Campaign

Ready to jump in and join the fun? Here’s how you can sign up and support the Squad 51 series on Kickstarter:

  1. Go to the Kickstarter Campaign Page: You can find it [here—insert link].

  2. Choose Your Pledge Level: You can support the campaign at various levels, depending on what extras you want, whether it’s a single ebook or a full collection with prints, digital bonuses, and Space Hitched.

  3. Follow the Progress: Once you back the campaign, you’ll get updates on new content, stretch goals, and cool rewards as the project progresses.

  4. Enjoy the Rewards: Once the campaign is successfully funded, you’ll receive your rewards—whether that’s a special edition, signed books, or other fun bonuses.

With Kickstarter, you’re not just buying a book; you’re supporting the creation of something special, and I can’t wait to celebrate Squad 51 with all of you.

SQUAD 51

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Twisters #MovieReview

Movie Review / /

Twisters – A Missed Opportunity for a Thrilling Disaster Flick

review Twisters

As a fan of disaster movies, I was excited to see Twisters, but unfortunately, it didn’t live up to my expectations. While it has its moments, this sequel/reboot ultimately feels like a missed opportunity, offering a retread of familiar ground without adding enough new thrills or excitement.

Too Much Racing, Not Enough Twister
One of the main issues with Twisters is the pacing. A lot of the movie is spent watching trucks and cars race across the landscape in an attempt to reach a twister. These scenes drag on and don’t build the tension in a meaningful way. Sure, there are moments of visual excitement when the tornadoes appear on screen, but the buildup to those moments is often lackluster and drawn out. It feels like the movie is more interested in showing us the journey to the disaster than the disaster itself, which is a bit of a letdown for fans of the genre.

Visually Exciting, but Familiar
When the action picks up, the visual effects do provide some stunning moments. The tornadoes themselves are impressive, and the scenes where the storm wreaks havoc can be visually engaging. However, these moments don’t quite compensate for the predictability of the story. It’s the same basic formula as the original Twister—a group of people racing against time and nature to confront an unstoppable force—but with a few twists that end up feeling predictable instead of interesting.

Not Cheesy Enough for Fun, Not Thrilling Enough for Drama
Another downside to Twisters is its tone. It’s not cheesy enough to fall into the guilty pleasure category, like some of the best disaster films, but it’s also not thrilling enough to be taken seriously. The stakes never feel high enough to make you care deeply, and the drama lacks the energy to carry the film. It’s as if the filmmakers tried to strike a balance between grounded realism and outlandish disaster spectacle, but neither aspect is fully realized, leaving the movie feeling a bit flat.

References to the Original, But Not Enough Substance
While there are some references to the original Twister film, they feel more like fan service than meaningful callbacks. The story doesn’t add anything particularly new or exciting to the genre. Instead of taking the concept in fresh, unexpected directions, Twisters mostly feels like the same movie with a few minor tweaks.

Final Thoughts

I give it 3 beers. It might be more fun then. Twisters isn’t a disaster movie I’d recommend unless you’re a die-hard fan of the genre or the original film. It doesn’t offer anything groundbreaking and spends too much time on predictable plot points instead of focusing on what makes disaster movies fun—over-the-top action, crazy destruction, and thrilling, heart-pounding moments. If you’re looking for a truly exciting and fresh disaster flick, Twisters might leave you disappointed.

Here’s the trailer:

YouTube player

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