As an avid reader of science fiction and its sub – genres, I personally find that there is nothing quite like coming to the end of a well-written, completely enjoyable science fiction story and wanting for more.  Spectra by author Joanne Elder is exactly the type of sci- fi story that I am talking about. This is a completely enthralling science fiction genre novel that not only excels in creating a great science fiction/  adventure /thriller/Romance but the story is so well put together that by the end of the book it leaves the reader wanting for more.

The author Joanne Elder, who is a Professional Engineer turned author, has created a world that aptly combines the elements of an engrossing sci-fi tale, an intriguing thriller, fringe science, romance, and the many theories pertaining to the existence of the soul. The story of the life forms of Spectra continues in Entity the next book in the series.

 The story of Spectra creatively delves into the long postulated theories of the existence of man’s soul, especially the cannons of Theosophy (a form of esoteric philosophy). Spectra is not overwhelmingly bogged down in particular theories but does present a very well researched overview into the subject as part of the plot and at the end of the book there are references to the information sources used by the author to research the subject matter.

 It is the years 2298, an exploration team of space miners while on a mission on the planet Spectra, make a tremendous discovery that if announced would turn the world of science on its ear.  They encounter a life form on the planet that exists without the confines of a body, the existence of which is very similar to the doctrines by many earth cultures and religious/spiritual sects as the human soul as it exists. With the discovery of the entities, the crew also finds that when exposed to the life forms there are changes in their personal energy fields that result in a significant increase in cognitive and physical abilities but at a terrible cost to the alien life forms.

Most members of the crew want to leave the planet alone to help preserve the life form on Spectra except for the leader of the mission - Ivan Campbell.  Ivan does not want to leave their incidental discovery alone, his desire to harvest the power of the entities for his selfish desires, drives him to extremely evil actions including murder and false imprisonment. 

The diverse casts of characters in this thrilling adventure are well drawn and you will find yourself rooting for the “good guys” as you are pulled into their suddenly erupting world.  All the characters are interesting especially, Ivan Campbell.  Ivan has a cold and calculating demeanor that makes him a well-suited antagonist who knows how to wield his power.  Other characters of note are Dean Weston and Laura Simmons.

Dean Weston is a likable hero who is handsome, macho, sensitive and gallant. Laura Simmons is vivacious and resilient and turns out to be a love match with Dean. The energy that develops between the two throughout the story aids in creating a romantic adventure as they manage to fall in love as their world has erupted into a seemingly hopeless chasm of chaos. 

Overall Spectra turned out to be an intelligent, worthwhile read that keeps the reader intrigued and offers food for thought.