Charif Majdalani’s Latest Novel: A Chronicle of the Rise and Fall of the Nassar Clan

‘A History of the Big House: A Novel’ is the new novel by Charif Majdalani. Photo: Other Press

Charif Majdalani was born in Lebanon in 1960 and is one of the most important figures in Lebanese literature today. After living in France for thirteen years, he returned to Lebanon in 1993 and now teaches French literature at the Université Saint-Joseph in Beirut. His novel “Moving the Palace” won the 2008 François Mauriac Prize from the Académie Française as well as the Prix Tropiques. His previous book “Beirut 2020: Diary of the Collapse” was published by Other Press in 2021. “A History of the Big House: A Novel,”his new novel, will be released on December 17, 2024. It is available for pre-order through Other Press. (Other Press, 2024)

From Charif Majdalani, one of the most important figures in Lebanese literature today, comes a sweeping family saga, “A History of the Big House: A Novel.” It chronicles the rise and fall of the Nassar clan, as they navigate the great events of the 20th century in Lebanon, from the Ottoman Empire to the French Mandate, following the various generations’ fight to keep and maintain their family house, and subsequent paths to exile.

At the end of the 19th century, a man is forced to flee his village after a quarrel. Starting over with nothing, the banished, audacious Wakim Nassar will create orange plantations on the outskirts of Beirut and become the head of a large clan, feared and respected. The great house he builds at their center will become a powerful symbol of the Nassars’ glory, admired from afar. The eponymous sits at the center of this grand novel, becoming its main character. Everyone and everything, from the Nassar family to the course of history, seems to evolve alongside this home. But this decadence is short-lived, battered by the First World War, illness, family tragedy, and the shifting regimes that control Lebanon. As circumstances compel Wakim’s descendants, one by one, to leave the house, it falls into ruin.

A rich saga, full of unforgettable characters and anchored in historical fact, perfect for fans of Hala Alyan’s atmospheric family stories, “A History of the Big House: A Novel” captures the unique experience of the Lebanese people through this family’s triumphs and struggles.

About the Translator: Ruth Diver holds a PhD in French and comparative literature from the University of Paris 8 and the University of Auckland, New Zealand. She won two 2018 French Voices Awards for her translations of Marx and the Doll by Maryam Madjidi, and Titus Did Not Love Berenice by Nathalie Azoulai. She also won Asymptote’s 2016 Close Approximations fiction prize for her translation of extracts of Maraudes by Sophie Pujas.

Advance Praise for ‘A History of the Big House‘: 

“This is what happens when poets write history; Majdalani weaves facts and dreams, the lives of men and nations, real and imagined, the smell of orange trees, of strong, black coffee on a Levantine morning—you can almost taste it. I could see that big house; I recognized it. This book took me home.”
—Yara Zgheib, author of No Land to Light On

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Book to series adaptation: ‘The Tattooist of Auschwitz’ by Heather Morris

‘The Tattooist of Auschwitz’ has been adapted into a Peacock original series. Photo: Amazon

Historical fiction transports readers to bygone eras, blending fact with imaginative narrative. They resurrect ancient civilizations and wartime landscapes with meticulous research and vivid storytelling. Through the eyes of fictional characters, readers explore crucial events, from epic battles to intimate moments of daily life, offering insights into the human condition across time. These stories often combine real historical figures with invented protagonists, creating a rich tapestry of emotion, intrigue, and adventure. These books not only entertain but also educate, inviting readers to ponder the echoes of the past in our present and future. One such historical novel is The New York Times and International bestseller “The Tattooist of Auschwitz” by Heather Morris.

Heather Morris is a native of New Zealand, now living in Australia. For several years, while working in a large public hospital in Melbourne, she studied and wrote screenplays, one of which was optioned by an Academy Award-winning screenwriter in the US. In 2003, Heather was introduced to an elderly gentleman who ‘might just have a story worth telling.’ The day she met Lale Sokolov changed both their lives. Their friendship grew and Lale embarked on a journey of self-scrutiny, entrusting the innermost details of his life during the Holocaust to her. Heather originally wrote Lale’s story as a screenplay – which ranked high in international competitions – before reshaping it into her debut novel, “The Tattooist of Auschwitz.” It is a tale of hope and courage based on interviews that were conducted with Holocaust survivor and Auschwitz-Birkenau tattooist Ludwig (Lale) Sokolov—an unforgettable love story in the midst of atrocity. It has now been adapted into a Peacock original series (6 episodes) and will be available for streaming starting May 2, 2024. (Amazon, 2024)

“The Tattooist of Auschwitz” – In April 1942, Lale Sokolov, a Slovakian Jew, is forcibly transported to the concentration camps at Auschwitz-Birkenau. When his captors discover that he speaks several languages, he is put to work as a Tätowierer (the German word for tattooist), tasked with permanently marking his fellow prisoners.

Imprisoned for over two and a half years, Lale witnesses horrific atrocities and barbarism—but also incredible acts of bravery and compassion. Risking his own life, he uses his privileged position to exchange jewels and money from murdered Jews for food to keep his fellow prisoners alive.

One day in July 1942, Lale, prisoner 32407, comforts a trembling young woman waiting in line to have the number 34902 tattooed onto her arm. Her name is Gita, and in that first encounter, Lale vows to somehow survive the camp and marry her.

A vivid, harrowing, and ultimately hopeful re-creation of Lale Sokolov’s experiences as the man who tattooed the arms of thousands of prisoners with what would become one of the most potent symbols of the Holocaust, “The Tattooist of Auschwitz” is also a testament to the endurance of love and humanity under the darkest possible conditions.

Book to series adaptation: ‘Shōgun’ by James Clavell

‘Shōgun’ by James Clavell has been adapted into a 10 episode series for FX. Photo: Amazon

If you are a fan of historical drama, this new series is worth checking out. Shōgun is airing on FX and streaming on Hulu and is based on the novel of the same name by James Clavell.

James Clavell was a bestselling author and unparalleled master of historical fiction best known for this epic Asian Saga novels. The son of a Royal Navy family, he was educated in Portsmouth. The Japanese captured him at the Fall of Singapore when he was a young artillery officer. It was on this experience that his bestselling novel “King Rat” was based. He maintained this oriental interest in his other great works: “Tai-Pan,” “Shōgun ,” “Noble House,” and “Gai Jin.” “Shōgun ” is the best selling classic epic novel of feudal Japan that captured the heart of a culture and the imagination of the world. It was previously adapted into a 1980 limited series and has now been adapted to television. The series premiered with the first two episodes on February 27 on Hulu and FX with new episodes of the 10-episode series then releasing weekly. (Amazon, 2024)

“Shōgun ” – After Englishman John Blackthorne is lost at sea, he awakens in a place few Europeans know of and even fewer have seen–Nippon. Thrust into the closed society that is seventeenth-century Japan, a land where the line between life and death is razor-thin, Blackthorne must negotiate not only a foreign people, with unknown customs and language, but also his own definitions of morality, truth, and freedom. As internal political strife and a clash of cultures lead to seemingly inevitable conflict, Blackthorne’s loyalty and strength of character are tested by both passion and loss, and he is torn between two worlds that will each be forever changed.

Powerful and engrossing, capturing both the rich pageantry and stark realities of life in feudal Japan, “Shōgun” is a critically acclaimed powerhouse. The heart-stopping, edge-of-your-seat action combines seamlessly with intricate historical detail and raw human emotion. Endlessly compelling, this sweeping saga captivated the world to become not only one of the best-selling novels of all time but also one of the highest-rated television miniseries, as well as inspiring a nationwide surge of interest in the culture of Japan. Shakespearean in both scope and depth, “Shōgun” provocative, absorbing, and endlessly fascinating, there is only one: Shōgun.

New book release: ‘Blue Hills’ by Clifford Shepherd

‘Blue Hills: Book 1 of the Bridge family saga’ is the debut historical fiction novel by Clifford Shepherd. Photo: Amazon

In historical fiction, a fictional story takes place in the setting of particular real historical events. As a huge history fan, I love reading historical fiction because it brings history to life by using relatable characters and some that we love to hate. Family sagas that span several years are especially engaging. Today’s new book release is in this particular genre. Clifford Shepherd’s debut novel “Blue Hills” is the first in the Bridge Family Saga that begins during World War II and promises to touch your heart and leave you with a renewed appreciation for the resilience of the human spirit. If you are a fan of historical fiction, family sagas, historical romances, and war/military action fiction, put this one on your TBR (to be read) list. It is available on Amazon US and Amazon UK.

Clifford Shepherd is a passionate writer whose journey begins with his debut novel “Blue Hills.” This marks the inception of a remarkable saga that will take readers on a captivating adventure, spanning from the past to the present day. Clifford’s love for the written word has been a lifelong affair, but it was a pivotal moment during a long walk with his eldest son, Cyrus, that gave him the nudge to put pen to paper. “Just do it,” his son urged, and one year later, Clifford proudly presents his first book to the world.

While crafting compelling stories, Clifford also manages a demanding day job as a senior analyst – a testament to the dedication of many indie authors who balance their creative pursuits with professional careers. Beyond his writing, Clifford’s interests extend to video editing, creating podcasts, and hosting a weekly radio show on Salford City Radio FM. Join Clifford Shepherd on his literary voyage, as he combines his diverse talents and passion for storytelling to bring you engaging narratives that will stand the test of time. (Clifford Shepherd, 2023)

“Blue Hills: Book 1 of the Bridge family saga” – The Bridge family is about to face their toughest test in generations. One they may not all survive.

Albert Bridge’s love story with Gloria begins on a high note, but fate has different plans when duty calls him away from his bride. As he finds himself thrust into the chaos of the Pacific theater during WWII, their enduring bond is put to the test.

“Blue Hills” follows the Bridges through the war-torn days to the vibrant era of the 1950s. While love may face its share of trials, and the shadows of a criminal underworld loom, the heart of this family beats strongly. With laughter as their armor and unity as their shield, they demonstrate that no matter how daunting the odds, family bonds can conquer all. It is a reminder that even the faintest glimmer of humor and the warmth of togetherness can pierce through the bleakest of times.

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Photo: Clifford Shepherd, used with permission.

New book release: ‘Black’ by Skyler Van Kirk

‘Black’ is the exciting new novel by Skyler Van Kirk. Photo: Skyler Van Kirk, used with permission.

I am excited about today’s new book release news. It combines historical and speculative fiction. Stories in speculative fiction take place in a setting other than the real world, a parallel universe of sorts. These are some of the most artistic works of literature because they immerse the reader in either futuristic, dystopian, or imagined worlds. Now picture, if you will, a novel that puts forth the question: is the chief in the oval room really in charge, or is it the fury of the people that fuels the country? In Skyler Van Kirk’s “Black,” the time is coming when the Commander in-Chief will be in direct confrontation with the potent retribution of the people. Sounds exciting, right? If you enjoy the types of novels that explore such topics, pick up your copy today. It is available on Amazon.

Skyler Van Kirk’s journey began in the heart of a sprawling urban wilderness. The raw material of fantasy, woven into the very fabric of this concrete jungle, was the crucible that forged his inspiration to awe-inspiring heights. From those pulsating streets, his words ascended. The strokes of his pen metamorphosed into narratives of passion, love, epic drama, and heart-wrenching tragedy. What was once a pursuit of artistic expression has now become a relentless odyssey to push the boundaries of his readers’ emotions to their limits. When it comes to the sky, it does not get any higher! His new book, “Black,” is about the true power of the Commander-in-Chief and what happens when the pale faces behind the most protected building on the planet have to face the vengeance of the people who built it. (Skyler Van Kirk, 2023)

“Black” – In the past, dreams were taken away by force. Labor was forced and ran by profit. This country was built on a billion-dollar business. Laws were made to keep certain people mentally and physically broken. Families were ripped apart, all for the fortune of this country. Women were used, men were emasculated, and children became the worst victims. Yet, through all of this, they survived. One day they became free, or did they?

In the present, it seems that in generations down the line, certain people are still fighting for the American dream. It is supposed to be better, yet it is not. It is supposed to be easier but it is not. Our children learn that with their ancestors this country would not exist. The people in power are fighting hard to hide their dirty little secrets. People in power are going as low as to rename what really happened to so many people. The one word that still haunts them is “Slavery.”

Now here we are in the future, and things have actually changed. We have our first female president in history. The commander-in-chief is a woman, a woman who is supposed to be a beacon of hope. Yet, just like in the past with every action, there is a reaction. Our newly elected president really thinks she can solve this country’s number one problem. A problem that has been growing for decades, “Debt.”

Regrettably, that ember of hope has morphed into a venomous mirage, adorned by people dressed in powerful deceptive lies. The Commander-in-Chief, seated atop the pinnacle of universal power, desperately clings to a perilous conviction: Only by rebirthing relics from the darkest past of history can she exorcise the unsurmountable national debt.

The past seems to fade into the dark hushed abyss, vanishing like a fridged whisper in the night, while it unfurls its mighty wings. A vengeful lineage, no longer willing to be pawns in the government’s game, stands fortified. No longer shall the heavens rain down fire and brimstone upon, for this time this generation will go to war.

The ancestors of this country were scared by new land and therefore forced into shackles. Now, the juggernaut of a government must finally come face to face and grapple with a nation that has thrown on war paint like the gladiators of yesteryears. How then, will a governance contend with the people who hold them up? The People are finally awake from years of slumber and refuse to yield.

Welcome to black.

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New book release: ‘Hearts At War’ by Hélder Fanha Martins

Dive deep into the heart of the Qing dynasty, where the shadowed halls of the imperial palace brim with intrigue and the far reaches of Shangli village resonate with age-old martial arts secrets. Photo: Hélder Fanha Martins, used with permission.

In historical fiction, a fictional story takes place within real historical events. As a big history fan, this is one of my favorite genres, especially when it involves warriors and battles in a faraway land. For fans of the genre, here is a new book release to keep in mind: “Hearts At War” by Hélder Fanha Martins. Readers can journey through China’s captivating cultural fabric, where kung fu is not just a fight, but a philosophy, and where the heart’s silent battles are as fierce as the ones fought in broad daylight. In this vivid epic, ancient wisdom drawn from “The Art of War” fuels a village’s courageous stand against an impending invasion. Sounds exciting, doesn’t it? Find out more, pick up your copy today.

Hélder Fanha Martins stands as a distinguished author who merges the rigorous world of scientific academia with the craft of storytelling. Serving as a professor in Information and Communication Sciences at the Polytechnic University of Lisbon, Hélder’s academic contributions are evident in his notable scientific publications. Yet, his passion extends beyond academia and into the realm of fiction. His work, “Zechariah – Lost in Time, Found in Love,” is a thoughtful sci-fi narrative that delves into the complex relationship between love, destiny, and technology. By challenging the traditional concepts of time and legacy, the novel has garnered attention from readers in both Portuguese and English, urging them to reflect on the deeper implications of their actions through time and space. “Hearts At War,” his second fiction book, is a masterful ode to the indomitable human spirit, illustrating that true power arises not from force, but from the enduring heartbeats of a resilient people. It is available on Amazon in English and Portuguese editions. (Hélder Fanha Martins, 2023)

“Hearts at War” is an immersive fiction epic set in the Qing dynasty, during the reign of Emperor Guangxu and under the shadow of the influential Empress Dowager Cixi. The book is an intricate tapestry of intertwined lives that span from the halls of the imperial palace, a stage for intrigues and corruption, to a remote village called Shangli, where the inhabitants cultivate an almost mystical connection with the land and keep the traditions of Chinese martial arts alive.

The narrative follows Yan, a devoted father and martial arts master, his daughter Mei, a young woman drawn to a broader existence, and Jian, a wandering warrior with a complex past. The fate of the three becomes inexorably intertwined when the village discovers an enigmatic green-blue jade slab, making Shangli a target for a ruthless warlord. As the threat of invasion grows, the village mobilizes in desperate resistance, employing guerrilla tactics and drawing inspiration from concepts in the legendary book “The Art of War.”

The story navigates through the rich cultural tapestry of China, offering an introspective view into kung fu, philosophy, and the eternal struggle between pragmatism and the yearnings of the heart. “Hearts at War” is more than a tale of physical battles; it is a profound exploration of the resilience of the human spirit in the face of the greatest challenges. The book is a celebration of the beauty, culture, and tenacity of a people who find their true strength when confronting seemingly insurmountable adversities.

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New book release: ‘The Protectress’ by Ayura Ayira

‘The Protectress’ is the new novel by Ayura Ayira. Photo: Amazon

If you like ancient world historical romance and romantic erotica, today’s new book release is just for you. “The Protectress” by Ayura Ayira features a strong female character, a demigoddess, who wages war on Earth. It opens with Tilelli, the Protectress, leading her soldiers in an epic battle. After reading the sample, the language appears lyrical with vivid metaphors: “Ever the graceful killer, she watched and waited, expecting them to say something. No one did, death had already stolen their words;” and there is plenty of battle violence. *Disclaimer: This book contains violence, graphic language, and sexual content and is intended for mature readers. It is available on Amazon, Goodreads, Audible, and other booksellers.

Ayura Ayira is a melting pot author who, with a masterful blend of genres, effortlessly spins captivating tales that empower, uplift, and celebrate the enduring power of strength, love, and diversity. Her books delve into dark content and feature characters from diverse social, economic, and racial backgrounds, often set in international locations. In her new book “The Protectress,” a demigoddess wages a war that spawns betrayal and the loss of her divine powers. (Ayura Ayira, 2023)

“The Protectress” – a demigoddess, descended from a long line of demigoddesses, is banished to Earth to safeguard humanity from a looming destiny of destruction. She finds solace and refuge in the arms of a mysterious stranger—a mortal. With unwavering faith that her loyal troops will orchestrate her daring escape, the Protectress counts on her return to the secure embrace of her palace. Yet, with each passing day, she finds herself increasingly drawn to this handsome man, surpassing the bounds of prophecy. The weight of duty and legacy occupy her thoughts, but her body hungers for something else. If she is not careful, her heart may soon follow, and how would the Gods judge her actions then?

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New book release: ‘No More Tears for Nonna’ by Al Esposito

‘No More Tears for Nonna’ is the new debut novel by Al Esposito. Photo: Al Esposito, used with permission.

One of my favorite genres is historical fiction, especially when combined with a coming of age plotline. Today’s new release is a debut novel by Al Esposito titled “No More Tears for Nonna.” The protagonist is Freddy Ercolano and the story begins as he is in a nursing home, lost in thought, and reminiscing about years gone by when, as a young boy, his grandmother was a big part of his life. After reading a sample, I can tell this is going to be a very interesting look at the life of a young boy raised in a traditional Italian family. The writing is descriptive “Clouds of cigarette smoke filled the air….The smell of Italian food was intoxicating” and draws the reader in to the complicated life that surrounds young Freddy. It is a candid look at one family’s history so there is a disclaimer that it may contain themes and language that some readers may find offensive. If you are fan of family fiction and historical coming of age novels that explore the power of familial bonds, consider “No More Tears for Nonna.”

Al Esposito was born in Brooklyn, NY and raised on Long Island in Commack NY. He has a rich Italian American background. Al is eager to honor his heritage and traditions by infusing his works with warmth, humor, and drama from his upbringing. Inspired by the vivid characters and events that graced his life, Al’s writing resonates with a genuine depth and authenticity that draws readers in. His debut novel “No More Tears for Nonna” is a heartfelt exploration of the power of family and the unbreakable bonds that connect us all. It is available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. (Al Esposito, 2023)

“No More Tears for Nonna” is an inspiring novel by Al Esposito that takes readers on a journey through the life of Freddy, a young protagonist yearning for independence from his overbearing mother. Set in late 1960s Commack, NY, this multi-generational tale of love, heartbreak, and hope pays tribute to the enduring strength of the human spirit and the profound impact of familial love. With vibrant characters and captivating events, readers will be immersed in Freddy’s story as he navigates his relationship with his beloved grandmother, Nonna. Through their bond, Nonna imparts invaluable lessons about love and loss, shaping Freddy’s path towards a brighter future.

Al Esposito’s writing is infused with warmth, humor, and drama, leaving readers moved and inspired. This must-read novel resonates with individuals from all walks of life, capturing the essence of family, heritage, and tradition. Al Esposito’s debut is an authentic and genuine story that will touch the hearts of readers across genres. Follow the author: Instagram, Twitter

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Author Al Esposito. Photo: Al Esposito, used with permission.

New book release: ‘Into The Fog of Charon’ by Mark Pennell

‘Into The Fog of Charon’ is Mark Pennell’s debut historical fiction novel. Photo: Mark Pennell, used with permission.

Mark Pennell is a native of North Carolina with deep family roots that date back to the 1700s. He is an avid reader of US history, the works of Edger Allen Poe, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, and Ann Rice, and a fan of the drawings from the morbid mind of Charles Addams. “Into The Fog of Charon” is his debut novel, the inspiration which came to him in a dream that he had over a period of three nights back in 1986. Since life has a way of taking you down other roads, such as marriage, kids, and life in general, the manuscript laid forgotten in a box on the top self of a closet. Fast forward to May 2020 and the COVID 19 lockdown. With extra time on his hands, he searched for something to do and remembered the manuscript from all those years ago. Once he found the old composition notebook that contained the manuscript, he began to read the mere seventy-five pages when he realized that it needed a rewrite. Keeping to the original story, he worked on it off and on for a year and a half, until he was happy with the new manuscript. With the help of a dear friend who helped him with editing, he felt it was time to give it to the public. He has already started the next book in the Charon trilogy as the adventures of Jim, Danielle, Quincy, and Kim continue. “Into The Fog of Charon” is a historical fiction novel that centers around teenagers Jimmy Black and Quincy Miller. It is available through Amazon and Barnes & Noble. (Mark Pennell, 2023)

“Into The Fog of Charon” –  Eighteen-year-old Jimmy Black and his best friend Quincy Miller are the MVPs in a historic, small-town basketball game against the Lancers of Loganville in North Carolina. Their sights are set on winning the game and hanging out with friends before they head off to college in the fall. Danielle Davis and her fellow cheerleaders watch the clock tick down to the final point.

One minute they are sweating on the court, and the next, they are in a desolate world, helpless in a large-scale alien invasion. The only clues are an old CD, a newspaper article, and a mysterious letter. With the help of Kim Fox, the four friends have to think fast and work together to navigate their new reality. Will they be able to unravel the unbelievable events that took place in 1945 in time to save the world?

“So, let us not be blind to our differences—but let us also direct attention to our common interests and to the means by which those differences can be resolved. And if we cannot end our differences, at least we can help make the world safe for diversity. For, in the final analysis, our most basic common link is that we all inhabit this small planet. We all breathe the same air. We all cherish our children’s future. And we are all mortal.” – John F. Kennedy

Author Mark Pennell. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

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New book release: ‘Matt Miller in the Colonies: Book Four: Architect’ by Mark J. Rose

The fourth book in the Mark in the Colonies series of historical time travel books is now available. Photo: Amazon

Mark J. Rose is a scientist, author, and adventurer. He holds a doctorate in pharmaceutical chemistry and is a director of research and development at a major biotech company. Fascinated with how humans adapt to a rapidly changing world, his writing resides at the intersection of technology, science, and society. Rose is the author of the highly acclaimed Matt Miller in the Colonies series, which is available on Amazon and Audible. The fourth and latest book in the series, titled “Architect,” was released on February 28, 2023. (Mark J. Rose, 2023)

In “Architect,” twenty-first-century scientist Matt Miller has become a wealthy businessman and politician with a beautiful wife and family. Yet, despite his every effort, Matt’s world is crumbling around him. Grace has recovered from her physical injuries, but her mental scars deepen as the threat to her family remains and her brother’s trial looms on the horizon. The Millers find themselves at the center of a turmoil that threatens to engulf the entire colony of Virginia and make it the epicenter of a revolution. As the events around Matt unfold and his situation worsens, an opportunity presents itself to right the wrongs he has caused—but only if he can leave behind his life in the colonies.

Mark J. Rose enriches his writing by extensively researching the places and times in his stories to create imaginable fictional narratives. For “Architect,” he took a detailed tour of Colonial Williamsburg, including the Governor’s Palace, John Randolph’s house, the Raleigh Tavern, and a private viewing of the Capitol building.

Rose predicts a precarious future for our society if we do not revert to having a sense of community. “Technology pulls us apart and fragments us,” he says. “No matter how much society advances through technology, our basic humanity remains constant and all-powerful. We have a fundamental need for community and the security that it represents.”

Published by The Skydenn Looking Glass, “Matt Miller in the Colonies: Book Four: Architect” by Mark J. Rose is available on Amazon and other bookstores.

Other books in the series include “Journeyman,” “Prophet,” and “Virginian.”