Architect of Destiny

Out of sight beyond Earth, the Taran empire spans the galaxy from its seat of power on Tararia.

Cris Sietinen was born with rare telekinetic gifts—abilities he refuses to ignore, regardless of the governing Priesthood's decrees. But, as heir to the most influential Dynasty on Tararia, only a stifled life of business and politics awaits him within the confines of his family's estate. Determined to be true to himself and explore the potential of his abilities, Cris leaves Tararia to begin a new life touring the stars.

When Cris unexpectedly receives an invitation to join the Tararian Selective Service (TSS), the only organization to offer an official telekinesis training program, a new future awaits. It's his dream opportunity to be among people like himself, free from the Priesthood and political objectives. Except, Cris' path was designed, and he's right where the Priesthood wants him.

Architects of Destiny is the first installment in the Cadicle series, a new space opera epic with elements of "Dune" and "Ender's Game." A fast-paced space adventure with intrigue, coming-of-age and romance, this short prequel is a prelude to the defining events in Tararia’s history in the ensuing years.

Architects of Destiny (SF)

By Amy DuBoff

BDL Press

ISBN #978-0692589120

Price $7.99

166 Pages

Rating 5-Stars

“Reads Like A Classic From The Masters.”

On Tararia, a young boy born into the powerful Sietinen High Dynasty wants to experience life instead of ruling a kingdom. At 16 he literally runs away from home – and Tararia. Finding a position on a cargo ship under an alias, he travels the stars visiting other worlds as a mere spaceman. But besides his parents, two other forces are searching for him. The Priesthood, and the Tararian Selective Service (TSS). He was born with telekinetic powers, and there are people that have plans for him. There are rumors of a mysterious Bakzen war in the far reaches of space, and this may be at the core of many problems.

While the cargo ship Exler is in dock, Cris Sietinen notices two strange men following him. He runs, but falls into more danger when an assassin attempts to kill him. The assassin is from the Priesthood. The strangers turn out to be TSS agents, and they recruit him. The TSS agents take Chris to their headquarters below the surface of Earth’s moon (Earth is known as the Lost Colony). TSS agents teach him to use his telekinetic abilities. Here he also meets Katrine Vaenetri, the daughter of a High Dynasty, and they fall in love. But has this all been arranged from behind the scenes?

As I read this story I was reminded of those early SF masters I read growing up, especially Robert A. Heinlein; remember his GLORY ROAD, STARSHIP TROOPERS, HAVE SPACESUIT - WILL TRAVEL, and so many others? The author captures those early masters, and more. It’s not often an author comes along who can take us back to those early years of the masters, yet bring their own distinctive voice to a thrilling tale of both space opera and nuts and bolts science fiction. Amy DuBoff has accomplished this very efficiently, and the result is a book the reader cannot put down until the last page. She has built her universe with care and much thought, and there are already two sequels. A full Glossary in the back of the book gives description and explanation to the universe. Highly recommended for SF fans, and lovers of a good yarn.

Tom Johnson

Author WORLDS OF TOMORROW