Book Jacket

 

rank 3183
word count 52252
date submitted 04.04.2010
date updated 29.07.2011
genres: Fiction, Science Fiction
classification: universal
incomplete

In Union Swift Rupture - Book I of Primeval ExpaContractics

Jared Hope-Johnstone

The story of four lives upended by the rise of two radical world philosophies and their violent impact on humanity.

 

What is the most important thing in the universe? The peoples of the future think they know. They’d tell you the forces of attraction and repulsion rule everywhere and there’s no higher truth. But which force is stronger? Think hard before you answer. Getting it wrong might get you killed.

'In Union Swift Rupture' is book one of a trilogy that details the rise of two radical philosophies and their violent impact on the world of the future. It is the tale of a strife of opposites, of Expansion versus Contraction, and how this strife is understood to affect everything in existence.

New Civilization, glittering and rich, has known nothing but peace for over a century. An inexplicable act of vandalism evokes a strange fear. The levelling of a small forest in Switzerland is the first tremor of the upheavals to come.

Seen through the eyes of four characters, these early rumblings become proof of a new destructiveness let loose on the world. First to fall victim is Lincoln de Guise, World Government official. Clues into the vandalism lead him to the home of a villain. He finds furious Dark Energy waiting instead...

 
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tags

adventure, future, metaphysics, philosophical fiction, philosophy, science fiction, space

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76 comments

 

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RossClark1981 wrote 193 days ago

- In Union Swift Rupture -

(Based on chapters 1-3)

This is very good. I can't usually get into books set in the future or the sci fi genre generally but there was something of the detective novel in what I read here too that gave it more of a grounding I could hold onto. Even the opening, with the mysterious woman entering the office with a problem and a case to be solved - something of the Raymond Chandler in that.

I also thought of Alisdair Gray as I read. Those orbs are quite similar to the floating videocams in A History Maker and the recorder thingy in Lanark.

The Appendices and contributor's notes also reminded me of the set up of my favourite novel, The Private Memoirs and Confessions of a Justified Sinner, in which editor's notes introduce the narrative. So I was on a pretty good run of asociations throughout IUSR.

It's quite dificult for me to comment on any specifics. From what I read, the manuscript appears to be highly polished and tight. I could perhaps have a crack at the pitch though. I would say the pitch deals with overall themes in the book rather than the content. The plot appears to be an extremely good one so I'd prefer to see more of that, as well as the characters, in the pitch. I imagine that would attract a greater readership, which the book deserves.

I would only make one stylistic note: now and then there are sentences which might appear 'empty' for the reader. What I mean the is that there is a use of words which I imagine the reader might struggle to create images with. For example, in chapter two we have "Inescapable and discomfitting rememberances down dark paths best avoided but perpetually underfoot, this and the reesurgance of past habits long thought dead." That kind of led me out of the narrative for a bit as I struggled to visuale the lengthy metaphor. I could just be a bit of a Philistine though....

Overall though, I found this very good indeed, extremely imaginative and with a great use of plot. On my 'to be shelved' list for sure.

All the best with it,

Ross

Nigel Fields wrote 387 days ago

Hi Jared,
I was completely submerged from the beginning. I read the first two chapters with my morning coffee and imagine I'll be thinking about this throughout the day. Very well polished. I intend to read more soon.
Regards,
JBC

Andy M. Potter wrote 475 days ago

Hi Jared, great fictional premise: the dance of expansion and contraction. strong and intriguing MC.
on my shelf.
the intro is fascinating and very well-written, as is the prologue. as some other commenters have found, i like your action better. just a thought: i understand the placing of the intro, but perhaps condense it?
very best, andy

Sharahzade wrote 526 days ago

IN UNION SWIFT RUPTURE
Jared Hope-Johnstone

I think your prologue is fascinating. However, Chapter One begins with your setting the scene rather than some sort of action or dialogue to grab me and sweep me away. I feel if you were to begin with Paragraph Six, that would do the job nicely. All the rest could easily fit in at the end of Chapter One in retrospect giving us more of an idea of the setting. Just my take on beginnings. Action always captures us.

I backed this story based on your pitch. I felt it involved the promise of a peek into the future and the unknown. This is always mysterious and exciting. Until we find the secret of time travel, this will always draw readers in to explore with you. I am eager to read on and see where you lead in this tale. Well done, Jared.

Many thanks for backing A King in Time.

Mary Enck

DMR wrote 530 days ago

Rohr is instantly likeable and I found myself quite immersed in your story from chapter one.. the premise is certainly intriguing and I will look forward to reading more - this is polished and compelling - Backed !
Diane
Good Blood

paperbat wrote 534 days ago

Jared.
Enjoyed several chapters. First chapter was cleverly donw using lots of discussion / banter, which gets the reader relaxed with the characters. Later on , I noted that 'calmness was invaded by chaos' . This is a key part of your plot - so make sure you emphasis this. Excelent. Will back it.
Appreciate if you could look at a chapter [ch. 2 is representitive] or so of my short childrens' book ; Paperbat Adventures.
Jerry [paperbat]

CarolinaAl wrote 537 days ago

An engaging, thought provoking science fiction story with fascinating characters. Wonderful imagery. Striking dialogue. Awesome world buiding. A pleasure to read.

Francene Stanley wrote 539 days ago

I thoroughly enjoyed the first chapter and look forward to reading more. The style is dry, which I assume goes along with the character.

I'm sure the reader will be interested to know what's causing the destruction of the trees.

The future tempts my imagination. I've written a trilogy with a writing partner about six characters living in the bottom part of England. But my story is about as different in style as it could be from yours. This is not the book that I've offered here on the site.

The Still Rock Water is about a woman who helps others in difficult situations through the power of a moonstone, while trying to find personal fulfillment. I'd love you to take a look. I'm backing your work. All the best.

Elijah Enyereibe Iwuji wrote 540 days ago

Hi Jared,

Honestly, before you can delve into the subject of illusion with a clear understanding of what happens itherein in the great beyond, you must be a great metaphysicist and philosopher. Your choice of title is unique and captures the message in reality. You set a great imaginery skillfully crafted to bear the essence of a reality. This is a compellingly brilliant piece of well written work. I wish many will enjoy it the way I did. Goodluck.

homewriter wrote 548 days ago

You are a metaphysical philosopher but I expect you already knew that! What a great concept for a novel Brilliant. Backed. Gordon. The Harpist of Madrid

nsllee wrote 552 days ago

Hi Jared

I found this fascinating. It seems like science fiction, but there's something Kafkaesque about the exchange with the woman in the office and in fact about the prose style. Definitely worth a longer read. Backed.

Nicole
Chosen

Amy R wrote 566 days ago

The banter of the first chapter is attention getting and I can't quite figure out why. (or I could be really tired...lol) It is unexpected I guess, but in a good way. It drew me and I kept reading...and reading.

Your pace, like the banter isn't slow as I expected. I moves rather rapidly which just sucks you in like a vacuum. The characters while as picturesque as the scenery are flawed making them very believable and grounded. They give the plot weight and enable it to resist becoming a tale or legendary.

I am enjoying this and I look forward to reading more when my eyes are not so tired :-)

Backed and enjoyed.

Amy R
Trust Me

andrew skaife wrote 575 days ago

This is actually quite sublime as it rolls out.

From the pitch: " Getting it wrong might get you killed." It is a fantastic hook line. Excellent.

That section at the beginning with the three "Know that..." 's; something that would be noted as akin to Asimov's three laws of robotics; very clever.

Those exploding trees are both an expository dream and a metaphore in gold standing.

As a gifted sci-fi writer you paint more in prose than the majority, showing that you enjoy crafting in your writing.

BACKED with great pleasure.

tomkepler wrote 575 days ago

I read the first chapter and then several others, including the chapter of Helene in the hospital. The tone of your story is seductive--that of order and calmness invaded by violence and chaos. You have done a good job of transmitting that sense of world gone mad. Backed.
Tom Kepler
The Stone Dragon)
(Hope you get a chance to read my book. I've just gotten back from two weeks of vacation.)

Craig Ellis wrote 580 days ago

Great hook in the beginning of the chapter, with the documentation of the Martian artifacts, and a good story line. Easy to read. Backed.

Craig Ellis
The Sun and the Saber'

Elizabeth Wolfe wrote 581 days ago

I love science fiction, and your book is proof of why! Intriguing topic and universal truths are written with great care and intelligence. BACKED -Elizabeth Wolfe (Memories of Glory)

Rusty Bernard wrote 585 days ago

Hi Jared,

I have backed your book because I was hooked by the pitch, loved the introduction and read on. I agree that you have a 'sound imagination'.

How much more I read depends on time and commitment.

Enjoy everything and good luck.

Rusty Bernard
Psychiatric Evaluation


Gauis wrote 588 days ago

The people of the future migt be right

mvw888 wrote 612 days ago

I found it to be an interesting combination--your careful and direct tone and the backdrop of these almost romantic scientific ideas. An intriguing start, definitely a dense and cerebral read, although I do think that you have enough story here to move things along. Excellent writing. A bit dry perhaps, but I think it works. I only looked at a few chapters, but I would hope that in later ones, the humanity of your characters is allowed to flower a bit. Great start, very interesting read.

---Mary
The Qualities of Wood

Francesco wrote 616 days ago

Thoughtful Sci-Fi is rare on this site...anywhere really, and this is such a class example of the genre!
Backed with pleasure! Good Luck!!
A look at Sicilian Shadows would be greatly appreciated.
Frank.
If you back my work, you may also want to approach BJD (a big supporter of Sicilian Shadows) for a further possible backing of your book

Iva P. wrote 619 days ago

Even though SciFi is not my cup of tea, I recognize good writing when I see it. This has all the makings of an intelligent thriller. I cannot help wondering whether In Union... is an allegory of the current world situation.

Iva P.
Fame and Infamy

J.S.Watts wrote 622 days ago

I like what I've read so far

Wilma1 wrote 623 days ago

Skilfuly crafted with a superb premise, its a page turner. I can add much more its already been said but a powerful piece of writing.

Sue Mackender

Knowing Liam Riley

Su Dan wrote 624 days ago

fascinating subject. a world govenment, very interesting and scary; is it good or bad? good work...on wl...
su dan...read SEASONS...

jdub wrote 624 days ago

Jared, enjoyed, good descriptions and language, story comes together at a pace which holds the reader, backed, john Warren Lasting Images, please review, jdub

Lara wrote 626 days ago

This is extremely imaginative. OK - you expend much effort in fine-lining your characters but the Prologue showing the origin of your plot and its premise stuns. there are wonderful touches such as exploding trees and I'm sure if I read on I'd learn about horrific implosions. The idea of Barcelona's self-management is very appealing. Altogether, a most enjoyable, an impressive read. Hope you surge upwards and never inwards.
Rosalind
Good For Him

hkraak wrote 628 days ago

IN Union Swift Rupture: Excellent! I'll admit, science fiction is not my thing, but I'm trying to branch out. Your writing is great and well polished. Best wishes with this!

Heidi
Pearl Edda

Grice wrote 628 days ago

Jared,

I added this to my poli/philo/ideo forum list that I'm building. Hope you don't mind.

http://authonomy.com/Forum/posts_new.aspx?forumId=13&threadId=55629&pageNumber=1&forum=true#AnchorPostId1382913

Esrevinu wrote 628 days ago

jared, I read enough to know that you have many gems planted throughout. You have created an opening chapter that is both intriguing and cleaver
I am impressed with your level of writing
Scott
The Esrevinu Chronicles/Secrets of the Elephant Rocks

KW wrote 629 days ago

"Rohr was a civilized and orderly place, so Lincoln had been told." A great opening sentence. I reminds me of the opening lines to a Dicken's novel until the part about Lincoln. From that clause, it's clear something far different from Dicken's is intended. Wow, "an actual visitor." Yes, yes, yes. "First, I'm educated to view Government as a blight on civilization. . ." Nice way to start a relationship. And trees are shattered. It's a force, a furious energy on the loose. Oh, the horror, the horror. "Could it be World Government wasn't entirely without use?" Hey, let's not go to extremes here, okay? Nicely done. I love this. I'll read more when I get a little more time. Backed for now.

speaksthetruth wrote 631 days ago

a definite contender

Shakat wrote 632 days ago

Well, I can't even remember how I stumbled across this but I appreciate that I did. You toss the readers into a futuristic world in every way, including the terminology, but without making it confusing. Based on what I've read so far, you've got great potential for a powerful science fiction. I try to write helpful comments but I do find on occasion I have nothing useful to say because an author is well beyond my level. You are one such case. Well done and good luck with In Union Swift Rupture.

I'm sure the title will make sense, but it's a bit of a mouthful. Just a thought.

And if you have any questions about Edinburgh, feel free to ask me. I'm Canadian, but I'm living in Edinburgh right now.

Shakat
Stand

Famlavan wrote 633 days ago

Sorry it took so long to get back to you after my backing.
This feels to be an intelligently thought out book.
You have a great narrative however I did feel it was lacking a bit of descriptive sound.
However this is (to me) a fantastic intricate plot making it a great read. –Good luck

John OBrien wrote 635 days ago

In Union Swift Rupture brings the reader into a futuristic world which seems to regard itself as having taken a step or two closer to utopia than we are at present, so much so that criminal and loutish behaviour seems such a rarity as to be quite shocking and remarkable when it occurs. Criminality has not been made a thing of the past but can be treated so effectively it would appear to be only a matter of time before it will be. But there are also those like Niall who seem to have defeated efforts to rehabilitate them. Administrator Lincoln, after the visit of the woman, is driven to get to the bottom of exploding trees, mysterious black orbs, the sinister and apparently villainous Niall and the crew of louts who seem to be his acolytes. And the reader too cannot help but be intrigued by these strange and unfathomable events.
I found all this fascinating and would be more than happy to read on thanks to the high standard of the writing and the scope and ambition of the premise. It may be set over two centuries in the future but it explores and probes quite adeptly the human condition at present. Thumbs up from me
John O'Brien - Other Face

zenup wrote 636 days ago

Very interesting story. Weirdly, I'd just finished a short story on Tunguska - (externally) shattered trees - what are the odds of that. So your trees definitely got my attention. I think your book demands far more than most sci fi readers are used to giving, but it's so well written, I think you can carry it off. Backed.

A Knight wrote 638 days ago

You have balanced the facets of writing with incredible accuracy to produce a believable, detailed and engaging piece of fiction.Your style is incredibly distinctive, dragging the reader right into the middle of this complex and incredible premise.

Backed with pleasure.
Abi xxx

eloraine wrote 639 days ago

Imaginative and great, backed with pleasure. E.Loraine Royal Blod Chronicles book one

alisdair wrote 639 days ago

These days everybody tells you to write in short sentences, and be stingy with the adverbs. I like the fact that you fly in the face of this conventional wisdom. I've always enjoyed a more baroque style of writing. Your dialogue has a cadence to it, a kind of lyrical quality that flows from the page. It is charming to read such polite, elegant conversations set in a futuristic office. As if the characters had been transplanted from a Jane Austin novel, where everything must be just so, into a work of science fiction. Bravo! In Union Swift Rupture stands out from the crowd.

zan wrote 641 days ago

In Union Swift Rupture
Jared Hope-Johnstone

I am not competent to critique science fiction (or anything else for that matter), but the first paragraph of your long pitch struck a chord - "Have you ever wondered what the most important thing in the universe is? The peoples of the future think they know. They’d tell you the forces of attraction and repulsion rule everywhere and there’s no higher truth. But which force is stronger? Think hard before you answer. Getting it wrong might get you killed." This sounds like profound stuff and an absorbibg story in which possibly the irrational forces of evil, as I perceive it, are investigated and explored? A good, intelligent plot always gets me hooked and this is what I think you have here. I like your ideas concerning the tale of the strife of opposites - seems to me you are using absurdities to illustrate your points - and I wonder who or what is the furious "Dark Energy"? Very stimulating indeed. I liked your writing style and you obvioulsy have a skill for characterisation. Without wanting to flatter - I must confess this seems to me to be a winner in the vein of some of the more highly acclaimed sci/fi books out there with real meat to them - Asimov, Blish, Dick and others would be proud. But what do I know?
Best in finding a publisher.
Zan

BJ Otto wrote 643 days ago

The prologue was a great opening to get the brain working. Really interesting thinking in this one, I am looking forward to reading more. Best of luck. Backed

plip wrote 644 days ago

'know then Contraction is the force attraction' - shouldn't there be an 'of' in there?
Your opening paragraph, especially the first sentence, is a bit of a clunker, and needs attention. Personally, I might start with something like 'A visitor, an actual constituent, came to call on Lincoln not long after his inauguration. The small World Government transition team had finally left Rohr --' Just a suggestion of course. I had to read the paragraph twice to understand what was going on - the name Lincoln together with 'Inauguration' had me momentarily in the wrong century and place.
I will come back and read more later, when time allows.
phil

Owen Quinn wrote 644 days ago

You've obviously put a great deal of thought into this and worked this story out in your head. your characters are believable and each has their part ot play. It also touches on universal themes of how one train of thought can topple an empire and how the masses can frenzy over an idea they think can change their lives for the better and the social consequences that ensue. A deep read which gets into your head and makes you rhink.

lynn clayton wrote 647 days ago

I can tell this will be a deep and intelligent book. The style of narrative is perfectly suited to its depth. It's a joy to read beautiful prose and such subtle and complex characterisation. Brilliant pitch, too. Backed. lynn

Andrew Burans wrote 649 days ago

A very unique and compelling storyline showing a great deal of imagination and creative writing. Your character development is well done and your use of imagery is excellent. Backed with pleasure.

Andrew Burans
The Reluctant Warrior: The Beginning

DP Walker wrote 649 days ago

Hi Jared
Obviously a lot of work has gone into researching and plannig this and I think it is quite an original idea. I did think you could use more dialogue and less prose in the early chapters to set the pace a bit more, but this is just my personal opinion. I think this has a professional feel to it and has all the makings of a 'classic'.
DP Walker
Five Dares

Bocri wrote 649 days ago

In Union Swift Rupture has an opening reminiscent of Conan Doyle's Sherlock Holmes tales or Charles Dickens's works. The style is not frivolous not even modern but does impart what I believe is the intended ambiance. The back references at the beginning of each chapter are exquisitely structured and revealing. I was intrigued, and impressed, by the author's use of a writing style from a previous era that readily reinforced the concept of a highly technical future. BACKED. Robert Davidson. The Tuzla Run.

S Richard Betterton wrote 649 days ago

I don't read a lot of Sci-Fi, but when I read something like this, it makes me think I should! The premise is fascinating and the writing polished. Being an English teacher and therefore a grammar and vocab stickler, the only doubts I have in ch 1 (and I say only doubts) are The woods is/are and satiate/sate. I'm not sure my oprion would necessarily be an improvement... So, with nothing else to add but praise, backed.

SusieGulick wrote 657 days ago

Dear Jared, I love science fiction because you can go anywhere & do anything which your story does. It is a good read because you create interest by having short paragraphs & lots of dialogue, which makes me want to keep reading to find out what's going to happen next. I'm backing/commenting on your book to help it advance. Could you please return the favor by taking a moment to back/comment on my TWO books, "He Loves Me, He Loves Me Not" & the unedited version? "Tell Me True Love Stories." Thanks, Susie :)

Abhyastamita wrote 659 days ago

I haven't had time to read as much of this as I would like to yet, but from halfway though the first chapter, I can tell I like it. Lincoln is an interesting choice of POV character. And you do a good job of setting up an undefined sense of menace with both Lincoln and the woman's anxiety and with the unexpectedness of trees shattering. I really liked the way she needed to get it out in the open that she was educated to disapprove of government. I look forward to reading more.

Beval wrote 659 days ago

I can't think of anything intelligent to add to all that has been said before. There's a expanse of imagination and creativity here that is awe inspiring.

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