Content: PG (military subject matter, some violence, & adult situations)
After reading book one in this series, I needed a break. The first book caught me off guard. I had no idea it would be so emotional. I fear I may have waited longer than necessary, but the wait was totally worth it. Like the first book in this series, this sequel has its action packed moments, psychologically challenging struggles, and of course, its gut wrenching moments of joy, sorrow, despair, and then hope.
In CassaFire, we find our hero, Byron exploring the known universe in the service of scientists. To put it plainly, the world’s greatest combat pilot is a taxi driver for smart people. Of course, we know he’s doing this to fulfill a promise he made to Bassa, from book one, but what we don’t know is just how exciting space exploration is about to become for the not-quite-middle-aged pilot.
This installment of the Cassa series does two things right away that as a fan of this world pleased me to no end. It brought in more galactic races and it uses more “special abilities” or powers. The geek in me loves that Cassians can’t live without their telepathic abilities and it’s interesting to see how these abilities are perceived by others in the universe.
Author Cavanaugh does an excellent job of touching on some very sensitive subject matters without bringing the story down or belittling the subjects’ importance. He touches on subjects such as: racism, superiority and right, colonization, choice vs duty, and more. There is even a slight, yet significant romance to keep you wondering what will come in the future.
I think this book is suitable for all readers, though younger children may not understand some of the deeper points and those averse to sci-fi themes may have trouble seeing beyond the setting to appreciate the true message of this piece, which I believe is love and loyalty grounded in personal experience and not simply tradition and duty.
Greetings readers, bloggers, geeks, and authors and welcome to The ToiBox of Words. I’m your host Toi Thomas, author of Eternal Curse, and today I have a treat to share. A while back, I had the pleasure to interview a wonderful author named, James P. McDonald. A good time was truly had by all,, and here’s how it went down… And since today is Indie “Author” Pride Day, I’m also sharing an in-depth look at Jim’s book Unbound and Determined over at “Who is so you?” Be sure to visit my side panel or head over.
****
Toi Thomas:Hi thereJames! It’s so awesome to have you here at the ToiBox Blog. I’m excited to learn more about you and your work.
James: Hello Toi.
Toi Thomas:So tell me, who isJames P. McDonald?
James: I’m a business and technology consultant, and write urban mythology, professional development, tech, and business related material. I’m currently developing a Business 101 for Authors.
My fiction and some NF can be found at: http://www.jim-mcdonald.net/
Toi Thomas: Well before we dive into your special message today, let’s get to know you, the person inside the author.
Toi Thomas:What makes you geek out?
James: Space… The final frontier… I’m a big fan of space exploration and looking into using off the shelf technology to get us moving along this path even faster.
Toi Thomas:What was your favorite book or story, pre-teen years?
James: My favorite authors are still Heinlein and Asimov. If I had to go with a favorite book from those years, it would still be Stranger in a Strange Land, the unabridged version.
And yeah, I probably read it when I was too young.
Toi Thomas:In terms of interviews, whose brain are you just itching to scratch?
James: I’d love to talk to Nikola Tesla and find out why he couldn’t just be a little more capitalist. We’d be much further along technologically, and I believe would live in a much different world.
And I could have a death ray.
Toi Thomas: Now that we know a little more about you, the person, let’s learn about you, the author, and dive into your special message.
Toi Thomas:So whacha got for me today?
James: Unbound and Determined is the third in the Home Summoning series. The best description is Harry Dresden dropped into the world of “Good Omens” and Machiavelli is the editor.
Toi Thomas:So who’s starring in this 2-dimensional script read ofUnbound and Determined?
James: My main protagonist is a wizard type who has had most of his power stripped away because of something that happened in his youth, and even he isn’t sure what happened, but a lot of people including his parents were killed. He’s on trial for his life, and trying to find out what really happened first.
The greater arc is the traditional demigod journey, and seeing if he can survive it.
Toi Thomas:What’s so special about this story that’s going to reel in the readers?
James: It’s fast, fun, and more than a little twisted. And where else can you visit Hellywood?
Toi Thomas:Past, present, future, is there a rhyme or reason to your writing?
James: I’m always working on several projects. If I’m not writing, I’m reading, I’m listening to podcasts. I’m talking to people. If I don’t have 30 notes a day about potential characters, events, or plots, it’s a slow day.
Toi Thomas:What author(s) has most influenced your writing? Why or how?
James: Terry Pratchett and Neil Gaiman have always been huge influences on me. They can write the darkest subjects with a light touch and humor.
Toi Thomas: Now this is where the questions get a little kooky; are you ready?
James: What do you want now? 😉
Wikipedia
Toi Thomas:If you could only watch one movie for the rest of your life, what would it be?
James: Leon the Professional. It’s disturbing and a bit creepy, but there is a hopeful undertone in a dark world. Until the end.
Toi Thomas:When the soundtrack of your life is playing in your head, what songs express your glee and what songs bring out your rage?
James: Bagpipes can do it all.
Toi Thomas: Let’s play zombie urban survivor. What 3 things do you need to survive a blackout in Central Park the day zombies attack?
James: A rope, a machete, and a lighter. After that, it’s all a bonus.
Toi Thomas:What’s the most fun experience you’ve ever had, to date?
James: Seeing the nine pound abused and frightened dog we rescued become the 13 pound loving ball of fury he is today.
Toi Thomas: Last question of the day; here we go.
Toi Thomas:Not that you can see into the future, but in your opinion, what does the future hold?
James: More books, more speaking, and more consulting. I want to help entrepreneurs build businesses, whether it’s authors, artists, or tech geeks.
****
Okay readers, bloggers, geeks, and authors, that’s all for today. Want more IndiePrideDay fun and giveaways? Check out this FB event. Be sure to follow this blog to see who will be visiting next time. Leave a comment below for a chance to WIN the ebook of Unbound and Determined. For more from James P. McDonald, check out these great links:
The purpose of this blog hop is for readers and writers to share what they are reading, have read, are writing, or have written with others. This is not about promoting free or discounted books, though some of those may be featured. This is about book lovers sharing what they love about books. This blog hop is about the Joy of Reading and the Joy of Writing with tags of your choosing and is hosted by me, Toi Thomas, the third Monday of the month. Learn more here.
This month’s optional theme is: gratitude or acceptance.
Excerpt from Chapter 15
Reaching the last file in the database, he paused. Simply labeled ‘Byron,’ it gave no indication as to the contents within. Curious, he explored the file and discovered four separate areas. The first section contained information from his official and personal record. His complete history and profile were represented, and he frowned at the discovery. Noting his Cosbolt training record, Byron remembered that as his instructor, Bassa had enjoyed full access to his files. He’d apparently saved them for future reference.
Exploring the next file, Byron opened what appeared to be a journal chronicling Bassa’s personal experiences. Confused as to why this was located in his file, Byron scanned the entries. The first one was written not long after his arrival on Guaard. It described a pilot in training whose cocky, indifferent attitude stemmed from loneliness and insecurity rather than malice or rage. Bassa concluded his assessment that all the boy needed was a friend. Byron’s eyes widened in disbelief and he scanned the other entries. Every single one was about him.
Uncomfortable with the thought of invading Bassa’s privacy, Byron moved to the next file. A prerecorded video flashed on the screen and he leaned back in the chair. His chest tightened when Bassa’s image appeared, and he realized the recording had been made from his very position.
“Good day, Byron,” said Bassa’s image, a faint smile on his face.
Byron’s mouth fell open. Bassa had recorded a message for him.
I’m actually reading CassaStorm (CassaStar #3) right now and am behind on my review of CassaFire (CassaStar #2), but with this month’s theme being acceptance or gratitude, I had to revisit the first book in this series. There is so much happening in this story by the time this passage comes along and as much as I hate to give away spoilers, I can only hope the true meaning of this passage remains a bit vague.
The passage is a revelation of acceptance for Byron in a way I can’t elaborate on without outright spoiling, but it’s clear that he has discovered something and it’s affecting him in an emotional way. Before and after this passage, the gratitude Byron feels for the off-scene Bassa is difficult to process. These two character experience life and combat together, and to say that they are like brothers is an understatement- they are brothers at the very core of their souls.
I have many friends who care about me and a wonderfully loving and supportive family, but I haven’t had a friendship like what Bassa and Byron have since I was in high school. That kind of friendship is precious and rare.
This website uses cookies to improve your experience. We assume you agree with this.
If you do not agree, we ask that you read no further or consider deleting your cookies after your visit. Thank you. AcceptRejectRead More
Privacy & Cookies Policy
Privacy Overview
This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience.
Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information.
Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website.
