Daelin Long: A Journey from Adversity to Heroism in the Rifters Series #fantasybooks #steampunk

Art, Character, Science Fiction Books / By M Pax / July 11, 2023

Daelin Long, a resilient and courageous character who undergoes a transformation from a lost soul to a fearless defender of our world.

From New York City to Settler: A Fresh Start Amidst Mystery

Daelin’s life takes an unforeseen twist when she is fired from her assistant editor’s job in bustling New York City and falls victim to a robbery. Seeking solace and a fresh start, she relocates to the quiet town of Settler, Oregon, with the help of her sister, Charming. However, her arrival in Settler is marred by the mysterious absence of her sister, setting the stage for an extraordinary and suspenseful journey.

Adjusting to Small-Town Life: A World of Secrets Unveiled

The transition from the hubbub of city life to the tranquility of Settler poses its own challenges for Daelin. As she navigates the small town’s close-knit community, she discovers that it holds secrets far beyond what meets the eye. Daelin’s quest to uncover the truth about her sister’s disappearance leads her down a rabbit hole of strange occurrences, revealing a hidden world where monsters are real.

From Fear to Heroism: Embracing the Rifters’ Call

As the truth of the supernatural unfolds, Daelin finds herself drafted into the Rifters—a group of courageous individuals dedicated to defending humanity from the menacing creatures that lurk in the shadows. Despite her initial fear and uncertainty, Daelin’s unwavering determination to save her sister propels her to often take on a leadership role among the Rifters. Through her resourcefulness, bravery, and intelligence, she becomes a force to be reckoned with.

Unlikely Allies and Unexpected Bonds: Friendship with a Ghost

While battling monsters, Daelin discovers an unlikely ally in the form of a ghost—her best friend in Settler. This spectral companion becomes a steadfast source of support, offering guidance, friendship, and a unique perspective on the supernatural forces that surround them. Together, they forge an important bond, serving as a testament to the strength of connection even in the most extraordinary circumstances.

Follow Daelin’s awe-inspiring journey as she battles her fears, uncovers hidden truths, and forges unbreakable bonds. Witness the transformation of an ordinary woman into an extraordinary hero. Start this discovery with the first book in The Rifters series, which is free everywhere! Get your copy today!

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#SciFi Worth Reading: Noor #scifibooks #booklovers

Book Review, Science Fiction Books / By M Pax / June 28, 2023

Noor by Nnedi Okorafor was a fabulous treat. With each turn of the page, the story unfolds, revealing layers of mystery and intrigue.

“Noor” introduces us to a world where technology and magic coexist in an uneasy balance. Set in a futuristic African city, the story revolves around the life of the titular character, AO, a young woman with a special ability to see and manipulate the threads of fate. From the very beginning, Okorafor skillfully draws us into AO’s world, a place where ancient traditions intertwine with modernity and where the line between reality and the supernatural blurs.

It begins with AO nursing a broken heart. Her man left her, and she drives to the market to get what she needs to make herself a feast, a feast to forget him. The story starts so ordinary, but it doesn’t stay that way. There was surprise after surprise as the story skillfully unfolds.

I absolutely loved this story and highly recommend it.

Here’s the blurb:

Anwuli Okwudili prefers to be called AO. To her, these initials have always stood for Artificial Organism. AO has never really felt…natural, and that’s putting it lightly. Her parents spent most of the days before she was born praying for her peaceful passing because even in-utero she was “wrong”. But she lived. Then came the car accident years later that disabled her even further. Yet instead of viewing her strange body the way the world views it, as freakish, unnatural, even the work of the devil, AO embraces all that she is: A woman with a ton of major and necessary body augmentations. And then one day she goes to her local market and everything goes wrong.

Once on the run, she meets a Fulani herdsman named DNA and the race against time across the deserts of Northern Nigeria begins. In a world where all things are streamed, everyone is watching the “reckoning of the murderess and the terrorist” and the “saga of the wicked woman and mad man” unfold. This fast-paced, relentless journey of tribe, destiny, body, and the wonderland of technology revels in the fact that the future sometimes isn’t so predictable. Expect the unaccepted.

Exploring the Enchanting Beauty of Devil’s Punch Bowl on the Oregon Coast: Weird and Wonderful Oregon #NaureBeauty #NaturalPhotography

Oregon, Photography, Weird and Wonderful / By M Pax / June 23, 2023

Nestled along the captivating Oregon Coast, Devil’s Punch Bowl is a natural wonder that beckons adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike. This picturesque coastal formation, located near the charming town of Otter Rock, offers visitors a mesmerizing blend of rugged cliffs, swirling waters, and dramatic sea caves.

The Origin of Devil’s Punch Bowl:

Devil’s Punch Bowl owes its intriguing name to the distinctive geological feature it exhibits. This natural wonder was formed thousands of years ago when the relentless ocean waves eroded the softer rock layers, creating a large hollow bowl-shaped depression in the coastal cliffs. As the waves crash into the bowl, water churns and swirls, producing a fascinating spectacle that has captivated visitors for generations.

The Spectacular Scenery:

As you approach Devil’s Punch Bowl, the panoramic views of the rugged Oregon Coastline will leave you awe-struck. The dramatic cliffs, adorned with vibrant sea grasses and wildflowers, provide a picturesque backdrop for this mesmerizing natural formation. Whether you visit during sunrise, sunset, or under the warm glow of midday, the scenic beauty of Devil’s Punch Bowl is sure to leave an indelible mark on your memories.

Tide Pools and Marine Life:

Exploring the tide pools around Devil’s Punch Bowl unveils an enchanting world of marine life. During low tide, the exposed rocks and pools teem with colorful sea anemones, starfish, crabs, and a plethora of other captivating creatures. It’s a paradise for nature lovers and provides a unique opportunity to observe these fascinating organisms up close. Remember to tread carefully and respect the fragile ecosystems when exploring these delicate tide pool habitats.

A trip to Devil’s Punch Bowl on the Oregon Coast is a truly remarkable experience that combines natural beauty, geological wonder, and a sense of awe-inspiring adventure. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a lover of marine life, or simply someone seeking solace amidst the wonders of nature, this captivating coastal destination has something for everyone. The rugged cliffs, swirling waters, and enchanting sea caves all weave together to create an unforgettable tapestry of Oregon’s coastal charm. So, plan your visit to Devil’s Punch Bowl, and prepare to be swept away by the majesty of this natural treasure.

Sahalie Falls, A Natural Wonder: Weird and Wonderful Oregon #NatureBeauty #NaturalPhotography

Oregon, Photography, Weird and Wonderful / By M Pax / May 9, 2023

An impressive natural wonder to explore!

Located in the Willamette National Forest, Sahalie Falls is a stunning waterfall that drops 100 feet over a rocky cliff.

A Short Hike

To get to Sahalie Falls, you’ll need to take a short hike on a paved trail that leads directly to the waterfall. The hike is relatively easy and suitable for all ages and fitness levels, making it a great destination for families or those who simply want to enjoy a leisurely walk in the great outdoors.

As you make your way along the trail, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the forest and the McKenzie River. When you reach the falls, you’ll be rewarded with a truly breathtaking sight. The water plunges down over the rocks, creating a misty spray that adds to the beauty of the scene.

Escape

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can climb down to the base of the falls for an even closer look. Just be sure to wear appropriate footwear, as the rocks can be slippery.

Be sure to bring a camera to capture the beauty of this natural wonder. And don’t forget to take some time to simply enjoy the serenity of the forest and the sound of the rushing water. It’s the perfect place to relax and recharge your batteries.

Sahalie Falls is the perfect place to relax and recharge your batteries. With its stunning waterfall and beautiful forest surroundings, you won’t be disappointed!

Exploring Fremont Point: Weird and Wonderful Oregon #NaturePhotography #NatureBeauty #photography

Oregon, Photography, Weird and Wonderful / By M Pax / April 18, 2023

Oregon is famous for its scenic beauty, and Fremont Point is no exception. Located near Summer Lake, this hidden gem offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The destination was originally Summer Lake in the Great Basin. The lake dries up the farther from spring it is. So, it was pretty dry. The vistas are still stunning and worth a visit, however.

A sign pointed up a dirt road to Fremont Point, and we decided to go see what was there. It was a pretty steep climb, so we figured it’d be a great viewpoint. It was, but the best part was the drive up. The hillsides were covered with this fairytale landscape of dead trees and flowers. It was incredibly beautiful and surreal. Rarely are we disappointed by exploring a road by chance and seeing where it goes. This one was certainly worthwhile.

The landscapes were stunning and it was so still and quiet. There were a lot of places to pull over and go exploring. There were vast vistas and smaller copses to discover, and all worth the time.

You can see a wee bit of water through the trees, which what was left of Summer Lake.

It’s always splendid to find a hidden gem when exploring the lesser-traveled places in Oregon. Oregon certainly has a lot of beauty to offer. Hope you find some spectacular places to explore where you are.

Meelo Mourns the Loss of her Homeworld #scifi #scifiart #sciencefiction

Art, Science Fiction Books / By M Pax / February 27, 2023

Getting over deep loss… twice.

Throughout the Backworlds series, Meelo has mourned the loss of home. When she joins the story in book 2, she had just watched the genocide of her people and the destruction of her world. She is the last of her race, the LurDEEs. She evolves a lot throughout the series, but now she mourns another home. At least, she didn’t lose everyone she loves this time. Find out more BACKWORLDS SERIES.

Exploration