During a brief first contact visitation in 2030, alien beings presented mankind the gifts of advanced technological wonders. Alien technology granted person on Earth the rights to nearly unlimited safe energy, abundant free material goods, and a debt free life. The new prosperity resulted in the dissolution of infrastructure. As the world’s economy faded, business and financial institutions closed. Governments disbanded and territorial borders ceased to exist. Set in the year 2064, on a rural community geographically located in the former state of Pennsylvania, Adjudicator,the first book in the Book of Days trilogy, is a speculative view of how mankind adapted to having wishes granted and dreams fulfilled, without the need to labor. Read how a future peacekeeper balances the events of his past against his dedication to redefine crime in a society where everything, including life, is devalued.
“Dealing with how life happens is your own story.”
One sentence summed up his emotionally detached philosophy of life.
Sean contemplated his condition before adding, “And what a story it’s been so far.”
He reflected for awhile in the darkness, and snuggled his cold nose deeper in the covers.
Although the warm air under the covers felt so inviting, he was curious as to the time. Sean peeked out from the woolen cocoon, attempting to focus on the alarm clock dial.
He let out a groan, realizing that only five hours had past since going to bed. Most of the short night was a series on tossing about trying to find a comfortable position in bed. Some of the muscle cramps remained. Joints that had ached all night now were stiff.
It was too early to get up, but he couldn’t get back to sleep. There was that nagging concern that if he fell asleep again, he would oversleep.
A chilly breeze past by as he rolled the blankets back. Reluctantly, Sean sat up and planted his feet on the floor.
Excerpt
"Life happens, and then it’s over. What you do in-between is your own story."
Adjudicator
John Rymell
Lulu (2005) ISBN 1411679458
Reviewed by Cathy Yanda for Reader Views (5/06)
An Adjudicator is defined as a person who studies and settles conflicts and disputes. And that is exactly what occurs in this futuristic book set in 2064. The author, John Rymell, in his first book in a trilogy, “Adjudicator”, brings together a vast knowledge of science, munitions, Wicca and, more importantly, human nature.
In 2030, aliens made contact with Earth and after much destruction, bestowed on the people of the planet everything that was needed for physical survival in an unlimited supply. As a result, the world’s economy faded, businesses closed and there was a loss of purpose in life for most of the Earth’s population. While this did not seem to bother most people, on the surface, it had many effects that were far-reaching. Sean, an adjudicator who lost his family in the initial conflict with the aliens, finds purpose in settling conflicts and defending those who are oppressed. While, he attempts to do this in a peaceful manner, that is not always possible. Sean befriends a young inmate, Mike, and sets out to show him another way of life.
…Sean sat back and laid his elbows on the table. “Em and I have three traditions for solstice festival. We ask our guest to bring a favorite food or drink from the previous summer solstice festival for all to share. Another tradition is that we ask them each to tell what they enjoyed most about the last year…” Mike’s question direction to Sean during the festival is…”Sean…why do you hate the aliens so much?”…Sean, with much anger, tells the true story of the aliens, the death of his family and friends, and much more.
In another storyline, Sean shares wisdom with another young man, Marty, who would like to be an adjudicator…”I didn’t get this old and wise by wishing my life away. You’re living in sloth and dealing in apathy. It’s all about avoidance. You have to write your own story. The answers you are looking for are out there. Go find them!”…These are words all of us would be wise to internalize and live by. John Rymell brings forth wonderful characters, sage wisdom and great entertainment. The next two books in the Book of Days trilogy are eagerly awaited.
Heaven sent us an angel. She could be your neighbor. Her friends call her Megan, but when her eyes are glowing, everyone calls her Ember Reign.
Megan Martin was an average teenager. She felt cheated when her grandfather died and grandmother
