In the vast cosmos of literature, certain authors shine like constellations, guiding readers through the uncharted territories of the imagination. As an avid (but slow) reader and aspiring writer, I have been profoundly influenced by a pantheon of literary giants, each leaving an indelible mark on my mind and shaping my own narrative voice.
I'd like to share my gratefulness for some of my long-time idols, the authors who inspired my creativity for decades, all of whom have played a pivotal role in shaping my nerdy, sci-fi, humorous, and snarky writing style.
THE OLD GUARD
These authors sparked my imagination as a younger man and, therefore, influenced my writing on a subconscious level.
Robert Heinlein: Robert Heinlein's storytelling prowess lies in his ability to weave complex narratives with a touch of libertarian philosophy. His masterpiece, "Stranger in a Strange Land," challenges societal norms, while "The Moon is a Harsh Mistress" captivates with its revolutionary spirit.
Arthur C. Clarke: Clarke's genius lies in his ability to blend hard science fiction with visionary ideas. "2001: A Space Odyssey" is a testament to his foresight, while "Childhood's End" explores the evolution of humanity in a way that continues to resonate with me.
Ursula K. Le Guin: Le Guin's strength lies in her anthropological approach to world-building and her exploration of sociopolitical themes. "The Left Hand of Darkness" challenges preconceived notions of gender, and "The Dispossessed" presents a nuanced critique of utopian societies.
Orson Scott Card: Card's gift lies in his ability to portray the emotional and psychological struggles of his characters. "Ender's Game" is a sci-fi classic that delves into the ethics of war, while "Speaker for the Dead" explores the consequences of human interaction with alien species.
MID GUARD
Michael Crichton: A fellow science geek, Crichton's brilliance lies in his ability to blend scientific fact with thrilling narratives. "Jurassic Park" explores the dangers of playing god with genetics, and "Timeline" delves into the perils of time travel.
J.K. Rowling: Rowling's unparalleled creativity shines in the wizarding world she created. "Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban" exemplifies her ability to blend magic and mystery, while "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows" masterfully concludes the epic saga.
THE NEW GUARD
Craig Alanson: Alanson's greatness stems from his skillful blend of science fiction and humor. "Columbus Day" introduces readers to the hilarious and action-packed Expeditionary Force series, while "Mavericks" showcases his ability to expand the universe while maintaining a snarky tone.
B.V. Larson: Larson's mastery lies in crafting gripping space operas. "Star Force: Swarm" kicks off an exhilarating series exploring the challenges of interstellar warfare, while "Undying Mercenaries: Steel World" introduces a fascinating universe where death is merely a temporary inconvenience.
Dennis E. Taylor: The secret to Taylor's superpower lies in his ability to infuse dry humor into speculative fiction. "We Are Legion (We Are Bob)" marks the beginning of the Bobiverse series, blending space exploration with artificial intelligence and humor, while "The Singularity Trap" explores the mysteries of an alien artifact.
THE VOICE
R.C. Bray: Although not an author, Bray's narration skills deserve recognition. His collaborations with authors like Alanson and Michael Stephen Fuchs bring their works to life, enriching the experience with his versatile voice and impeccable timing.
These authors have collectively fueled my passion for storytelling, guiding me through the galaxies of thought and inspiring my own nerdy, sci-fi, humorous, and snarky writing style. As I continue to explore the vast expanse of authorship, I carry the echoes of their voices with me, forever shaping the universes within my imagination.
As always, I appreciate your support of self-publishing and indie authors. In the name of putting myself out there, here are a few of my works.