Demeter

Orion's Spur, Volume 1

By: Alan D. Hansen

Narrated by: Matthew David Hopkins

Usually being beaten up and hospitalized by the school bully isn't considered to be a great turning point in your life.

Fifteen year old Ryder faces some of the common challenges of any young man his age: isolation, sibling rivalry, first love, and bullying. Life takes a sudden change when he is invited, along with his sister and five classmates to spend a year abroad.
Read the contract! Instead of going to Europe on Earth Ryder and his friends are conscripted for a year of service in Demeter, an asteroid over a hundred light years from Earth.
The good news is that Ryder gets closer to his classmate Cynthia Flores and he gets to develop his talent at gaming with systems that deal with real life scenarios including saving Demeter itself from invasion. The bad news is that his reckless younger sister has a talent for mischief and disaster. And now, she and Cynthia have been kidnapped and it's up to Ryder to figure out how to save them before someone kills them all.

©2023 Alan D. Hansen (P)2024 Alan D. Hansen

A thrilling adventure

This is a must-read for fans of sci-fi and adventure. The plot is full of twists and turns, and the ending leaves readers eager for more.

Heartfelt Adventure That Packs a Punch

I loved how the book didn’t shy away from tough topics like bullying and isolation while delivering an exciting space opera. Ryder’s courage and his complicated relationships with his sister and friends were so well-written. Can’t wait for Volume 2!

Amazing book

This book is a captivating coming-of-age story set in a futuristic space setting. The author skillfully blends elements of sci-fi, adventure, and family drama to create a compelling narrative. I particularly enjoyed the development of Ryder's character as he navigates the challenges of adolescence and the unexpected dangers of life on Demeter.

A Slow Start, But Worth It

The beginning felt a bit sluggish, but once the story picked up, I couldn’t put it down. The exploration of intergalactic politics and personal relationships was well done, with some deep, thought-provoking themes woven in. Stick with it—it’s worth the journey!

Perfect Blend of Sci-Fi and Coming-of-Age

I was drawn to Ryder’s journey as he faced universal teenage challenges, then thrust into the incredible environment of Demeter. The contrast between Earth’s simplicity and the asteroid’s high-stakes drama was gripping. This book is both entertaining and thought-provoking.

An engaged listen

I really enjoyed this book because it mixes the familiar struggles of teenage life with a thrilling sci-fi twist. The story keeps you hooked with great character development, especially in Ryder’s relationship with his sister and Cynthia. I loved the way the gaming aspect was integrated into the plot—it added a fresh layer to the story.

A galactic adventure

This book is a thrilling coming-of-age story set in a distant galaxy. Ryder's journey from bullied outsider to reluctant hero is filled with adventure, humor, and heart. The author's ability to create a believable and engaging world is truly impressive.

A Stellar Coming-of-Age Sci-Fi Adventure!

Demeter is a thrilling mix of teenage challenges and out-of-this-world adventure. Ryder’s journey from bullied kid to unexpected hero kept me on the edge of my seat, especially with the twists of alien abduction and life-or-death stakes. Perfect for fans of sci-fi with heart!

Action, Humor, and Heart

I didn’t expect such an emotional and action-packed story. Ryder is a character you root for, and his sister adds humor and chaos in equal measure. The plot is unpredictable, keeping you on edge until the end.

Complex, Clever, and Completely Gripping

This is hands down one of the most compelling books I’ve read in a long time. Demeter: Orion's Spur manages to weave intricate plots with deep themes, yet keeps you totally engaged throughout. The story is beautifully structured, and each page is packed with excitement. I felt like I was right there in the action. Five stars aren’t enough!