Joshua Mercer’s debut novel, Orphans Pursuit, offers a captivating blend of fantasy and coming-of-age themes that invites readers into the life of Dustin, an orphan trying to find his place in a society that values honor above all else. With a world that combines the familiar elements of Earth with unique twists, Mercer creates a story that is both engaging and thought-provoking. The novel’s setting, characters, and underlying themes provide readers with an immersive experience that is easy to read yet rich in detail. Let’s explore the different aspects of Orphans Pursuit and the journey of its main character, Dustin.
A World of Honor and Power: Setting the Stage on Ethra
Orphans Pursuit takes place on the planet Ethra, a world that closely resembles Earth but with its own distinct characteristics. Ethra’s society is built around a strong sense of honor, where individuals are judged not only by their actions but also by their ability to contribute to the greater good. This world is a blend of old and new, with technology reminiscent of the Civil War era and characters who possess unique powers. However, these powers are not the typical superhuman abilities often found in fantasy novels; rather, they are more like enhanced character traits that define the individuals who wield them.
Dustin, the protagonist, is one of the many characters shaped by this society. As an orphan, he feels the weight of expectations from his adopted parents and the society around him. The world of Ethra is not forgiving, and Dustin must navigate the challenges of living up to these expectations while also trying to find his own identity. The novel’s setting provides a perfect backdrop for Dustin’s journey, as it reflects the internal and external struggles he faces in his quest for honor and belonging.
Dustin’s Quest for Belonging: A Hero’s Journey
At the heart of Orphans Pursuit is Dustin’s journey of self-discovery and his desire to find a place where he truly belongs. From a young age, Dustin has longed for a power that would make him useful and valuable in the eyes of his adopted parents and society. This desire drives him to work tirelessly, often questioning why others do not seem to put in the same effort. His friend Arra plays a crucial role in encouraging him, reminding him of the importance of staying true to himself and not losing sight of his own worth.
Dustin’s journey leads him to the Academy of Military and Power, where he hopes to secure a place that will allow him to fulfill his potential. However, the path is not easy, and Dustin finds himself facing challenges that test both his physical abilities and his resolve. The Academy is a place where students are trained to be on the front lines of a society divided by two nations vying for control. As Dustin steps into this world, he must navigate the complexities of power, honor, and loyalty, all while trying to stay true to himself.
The Casual Fantasy Appeal: A Book for Enjoyable Reading
One of the most striking aspects of Orphans Pursuit is its casual fantasy tone. Joshua Mercer has crafted a story that is meant to be enjoyed by readers without the need for intense analysis or deep dives into complex lore. This makes the book accessible to a wide audience, particularly young adults who are looking for a story that is both engaging and easy to follow.
Despite its casual tone, Orphans Pursuit does not shy away from exploring important themes such as identity, honor, and the pressures of societal expectations. These themes are woven into the fabric of the story, allowing readers to connect with Dustin’s struggles and triumphs on a personal level. Mercer’s writing style ensures that the book remains a pleasant and enjoyable read, making it a perfect choice for those who want to lose themselves in a world of fantasy without feeling overwhelmed.
About the Author: Joshua Mercer’s Passion for Fantasy
Joshua Mercer, the author of Orphans Pursuit, is a passionate writer with a deep love for all things fantasy. Based in Central California, Mercer has recently founded his own publishing company, Mercer Publishing, and has made his debut in the literary world with this novel. His love for fantasy shines through in his writing, and he has crafted a story that reflects his dedication to the genre.
Mercer’s personal life also plays a role in his writing. He is married and has a daughter, and his family life provides him with the inspiration and motivation to continue creating stories that resonate with readers. Mercer’s passion for animals is also evident in his work, as he finds ways to include them in his stories, even in small roles.
Orphans Pursuit is more than just a debut novel; it is a reflection of Joshua Mercer’s journey as a writer and his desire to create a world that readers can escape into. With plans to release a print copy of the book before Christmas of 2024, Mercer is just getting started on his literary journey, and readers can look forward to more exciting stories from him in the future.
In conclusion, Orphans Pursuit by Joshua Mercer is a compelling fantasy novel that offers a blend of adventure, self-discovery, and societal exploration. Through the eyes of Dustin, readers are taken on a journey that is both enjoyable and thought-provoking, making it a perfect addition to any fantasy lover’s bookshelf. The book can be pre-ordered from Barnes & Noble and Apple Books and is expected to be released on 29th August, 2024.
We had the privilege of interviewing Joshua Mercer. Here are excerpts from the interview.
Hi Joshua, It’s great to have you with us today! Please share about your book ‘Orphans Pursuit‘ with our readers.
Hi, this book was a passion project that I wrote as a learning experience for what it takes to write a fantasy. My goal was to write a coming-of-age book in a way that would be easy for readers to read and understand. I have a print copy of the book in the works that should be available before Christmas of 2024 if there are no delays.
I liked the idea of having the main character written in first person and then rewrote it in the first person perspective to give it a more personal perspective. This book has taken years to write, and I have gained a wealth of knowledge about what it takes to write fantasy.
What are the strategies that helped you become successful in your journey?
Listening to feedback and making changes to the editor’s comments, along with my wife’s critiques, helped. Leaning on books I love for inspiration and writing a story that I enjoy.
Any message for our readers?
To the readers, I would say expect another book in the series at some point. I have plans for multiple other series that I’m prioritizing now, and I plan on speeding up my writing significantly now that I feel confident about my ability to tell a story. All will be fantasy books. So stay tuned in the next year for more to come.
Thank you so much, Joshua, for giving us your precious time! We wish you all the best for your journey ahead!