Marty's Armageddon

The first book I ever wrote to completion is A Subtle Armageddon. The following is the Amazon link, and notice you can buy a kindle version. I have my son and daughter in law to thank for that. Their work on it is very much appreciated.

A Subtle Armageddon

My inspiration is found in C. S. Lewis' The Abolition of Man. What, I wondered, would be the embodiment of a true last man on Earth, based on Lewis's conjecture that such a man would be an entirely 'made' man. But made how and of what, and by whom and for what purpose, that man himself could not know. Or could he? On that question I built my story.

I'm rather proud of Armageddon, to be honest, particularly (spoiler alert) the very last line. I fancy it the best turn of phrase I've come up with, at least so far. But if you don't understand the point of the book that quiet little sentence will surely fall flat. 

I don't know if that's the case. Yet the question which has always been at the back of my mind since I finished the thing was whether I made the point reasonably easy to see. I didn't want it to be too easy because that, in my opinion, would spoil the read. At the same time if the basic idea for writing it doesn't come through to the average reader then it may not be a good book at all, the very end notwithstanding.

And that's what troubles me. I've always been afraid that A Subtle Armageddon is somewhat obscure. I'm not sure that the reader will get the point. But if you're game to try, it's free through Kindle Unlimited, and I would love to hear your opinion. 

ASA Interview

Well, look who was interviewed by The Digital Journal, an online news source. Me!

Here's the link: Faith Through Allegory: Charles Martin Cosgriff on Exploring Humanity’s Deepest Questions

It's a bit potboiler, but hey, it's a step forward for my books. Here's hoping!

News Coverage

Well, I've done a thing. I contracted with a PR firm to promote my book A Subtle Armageddon. For $345 they developed a press release which they promised would be sent to nearly 500 news outlets, book retailers, book clubs, influencers, reviewers and various other entities. 

Full disclosure: I expected nothing, and in fact was afraid I was throwing money away. But I did find that the release was sent out through the AP, Associated Press, here, reported verbatim but with a legal disclaimer that all they were doing was forwarding an item sent to them. Whatever. I've been on the AP wire, and not for anything criminal, isolated ASA reviews notwithstanding.

Further, I am being inundated with emails from several people about what they might be willing to offer. Most, quite honesty, involved paying for a new service (though I read them I have so far ignored their offers) and some free (those I took). The firm I contracted also developed a media guide (mine to use as I please, as is the original press release) and have given me advice on what I could do myself with the materials for greater promotion. I don't have to depend on them; I can be proactive with the things they've produced.

I'm going to be coy and not mention the firm's name until I see what happens in the long run. But the early returns are encouraging. I mean, not many of us are on the AP wire, am I right?

Satisfying and Meaningful

This is a very well written and and imaginative book offering hope in a world devoid of human sentiment. The main character is able to learn from the natural world around him the real meaning of existence. Sometimes even good intentions can go terribly wrong but with determination the wrong can be righted. The ending of this book is also satisfying and meaningful.

It's quite sublime to have reviewers offer such kind words. This writer liked my book A Subtle Armageddon, a book I was almost afraid to make available because I feared it was obscure in meaning and intent. Yet at least some of its readers see the point.

A Subtle Armageddon is available here. My other books, Michael's Story, The Interim Generation, David Gideon, and Family Lore you might also find worthwhile.

With Apologies to Dr. Donoso

As well as reading more I'm trying to get back into writing more. As faithful readers know this particular blog has been around since 2008, but I also have books available. My first, A Subtle Armageddon, is out in both print and a kindle edition. You may find them here.

Don't worry, this isn't entirely a sales pitch. I simply found myself thinking about that day in 1982 when I had my first real and deep inspiration to begin work on what became ASA. 

I was sitting in a philosophy class in room 332 of the Briggs Building on the University of Detroit campus. Dr. Anton Donoso, a truly fine teacher whose class on American Philosophy I thoroughly enjoyed, was lecturing, I think, on William James. For all I do remember of that day I don't recall exactly who he was talking about. Anyway, I had had this germ of an idea for a book for a few years by then. I even knew where it would end, though I didn't know how I'd get there. And that particular evening, well, in a fit of inspiration, I began writing. By the time class was over I had hand written almost ten pages of that first novel.

I have long wondered whether Dr. Donoso even noticed what I was doing, and if he did, did he think, wow, there's one student really into my lecture, the way he's scribbling on his notebook. And that, if it was the case, I've always felt bad about. So, wherever you are today Dr. Donoso, I apologize. I really did like your class. I was just distracted that day. 

More Good Words

Here's what Jerry, an Amazon reviewer, says about my book The Interim Generation:

"The Interim Generation" is a thrilling addition to the Infinity Series. The author has masterfully crafted a complex and engaging story that seamlessly blends science fiction and political intrigue. The characters are richly developed, and their struggles and triumphs will keep you on the edge of your seat. His writing style is both descriptive and concise, making it easy to visualize the futuristic world he has created. The plot is full of unexpected twists and turns that will leave you guessing until the very end. Overall, "The Interim Generation" is a must-read for fans of the Infinity Series and anyone who loves a good sci-fi adventure.

I can't say how much reading reviews such as these please me; what writer wouldn't be happy? It's particularly satisfying because I didn't think the story was ready to be put 'out there'. 

I actually published Interim on something of a lark. My own opinion was that the story was too loosely constructed and needed to be tighter. I felt it was missing something, some spark which would give it a life of its own. But the little angel on my shoulder said to get it out there, right now. Don't wait for paperback, (it's only available on Amazon Kindle right now but I'm working on that) just make it available, I was told. And the proof of the pudding? It has the highest average of the three books available in my Infinity series. 

When you hear things such as a 'masterfully crafted...complex and engaging story' with characters 'richly developed' and the style 'both descriptive and concise' of a world 'easy to visualize' a fella starts to think (hope?) that he might actually have a clue to what he is doing. 

The results so far have me considering whether to publish book four now, or whether to wait awhile. Book Four is finished; do I publish it or leave that as a tease?  Well, to tease for a minute, it's a love story about Ben and Natalie, occurring right as the world of Infinity is taking complete hold. Ben believes in the new world; Natalie believes in her and Ben. Their challenges are similar, yet different, from what Michael and Kim and Nathaniel and John face. Sound interesting?

In the meantime, fire up your Kindle and order The Interim Generation here:  Book Three

Um, Okay

Oh, that Marty. His books are getting good to great reviews on the whole. But he's not always sure what to think about certain individual opinions.

One reviewer has given me five stars on Amazon (the most you can earn) for my book Michael's Story. I appreciate that, truly and from the bottom of my heart. But among other encouragements this particular person opined, 'An interesting read even if this wasn't the author's intention'. And I thought, huh?

I mean, I'm glad he read and liked and was kind enough to review Michael's Story. But, but, what author doesn't intend for his writing to be interesting? Has he read other things of mine which he thought were not interesting (Quiet, Ron) and is praising my improvement? Or are there writers out there whose dreams are, I hope readers find my book uninteresting? When at their computer or with pen and paper in hand are there authors actually thinking, how can I make my characters more dull and lifeless? How can I present a more gray, less colorful picture of the world I'm inventing?

I am not making this up; it is a real review. I'm just not sure what to think of it.

Nail on the Head

A reviewer on Amazon offered this analysis of my book A Subtle Armageddon, which he also gave five stars out of five: 

It took me a few pages to get into the groove with this book, because the narrative style is different. It is very metered, and not long on dialogue. But the plot kind of demands that. And once you have read a few pages, you realize that there is a lot of substance here. I'm glad I got into the groove and read it. Thoroughly good and thought provoking piece of fiction.

This is about the most fair review I could have for the story. It indeed starts slow, and is plodding: I knew that when I wrote it. I'll even go so far as to say it's obscure enough at first that I sometimes have trouble rereading it myself. But I felt constrained by the circumstances I had set up for the tale. The world I described at the beginning had to be boring. It couldn't be dynamic. There wasn't anything to cause conflict. 

As A Subtle Armageddon rolls on, it picks up. There is wonder and pathos, discovery, anger, fear and reassurance. It's my favorite of my books, though I honestly understand when folks struggle getting into it. Yet the payoff, I hope anyway, is worth it.

Here's a link if you're curious. Tell me what you think.

In The Interim Generation

Reader Eric Myers had this to say about my Book The Interim Generation:

I am a fussy reader. Not just any book will make my favorites list. For me, a book must have the complete package if I am going to continue to read more books from that writer… and if I am going to recommend that book to others. The Interim Generation has everything.

What grabbed my attention immediately were the delightfully intricate characters. No stereotypes or templates here. Each one is well-formed, fully dimensional and comes with an array of strengths, quirks, and foibles.

We were off to a good start but remember, I am demanding.

The next pleasant surprise was the story. The author, while respecting the genre, had his own take on what an adventure thriller should be. There were fun twists and interesting developments. A lot of time went into creating this storyline.

Along this incredibly fun journey were immersive settings, realistic dialogue, and heroes to cheer for.
The ending was a bit of a surprise, yet incredibly satisfying.

Well, Done, Charles Martin Cosgriff. Can’t wait to read your next one. I am pleased to recommend this to everyone.

Thank you, Eric. FYI the book is available here I hope you enjoy it too!

ASA Good Critical Review

A Reviewer whose Amazon moniker is gliderpilot1 has this to say about my novel A Subtle Armageddon:

A Subtle Armageddon, the first book in the Infinity Series, presents readers with a dystopian future where true human sentiment is absent. Despite minimal or no dialogues, the main character embarks on a journey of self-discovery and learns profound lessons from the natural world, offering a thought-provoking exploration of good intentions gone awry.

One of the unique aspects of the book is its portrayal of a world where human learning should be impossible, yet the characters defy these limitations. The author's imaginative depiction of how nature can instruct even the most hardened individuals is enlightening. Throughout the narrative, the sublime descriptions create a vivid and captivating atmosphere, immersing readers in this highly imaginative world.

Although dialogue is scarce, the well-developed characters engage readers through their actions and experiences. Witnessing the main character's transformation from emotional neutrality to one capable of growth and learning adds depth to the narrative. The author's favorite excerpts vividly convey tension and emotion, demonstrating their ability to create an immersive and emotional reading experience.

A Subtle Armageddon contains spiritual undertones that are intertwined with the storyline. While not necessary, a general knowledge of C.S. Lewis might enhance readers' understanding of certain elements within the book. The underlying rationale and thought-provoking themes encourage contemplation of dependence, independence, and the interconnectedness of all things.

While the book has its strengths, it also has a few limitations. The absence of significant dialogues may detract from readers seeking more character interactions. Additionally, the pacing occasionally falters, affecting the overall momentum of the narrative.

Readers will appreciate the inherent optimism, unexpected twists, and profound learning moments. A Subtle Armageddon is a well-written and thought-provoking page-turner that blends spirituality, imagination, and intriguing characters. It offers a unique perspective on the significance of human sentiment and our relationship with the natural world.

I wish that all reviewers would give feedback such as this. He touches on both the strengths and weaknesses of the book. I can tell that he actually read it; too many reviews are simply without enough body to be helpful for me as a writer, or potential readers. Their reviews are perfunctory. Although gliderpilot1 only gave me 3 stars out of 5, I appreciate his comments on a much deeper level than what others have said who gave me more stars.

I don't agree with everything gliderpilot1 says (the intentions of the controllers in ASA were most emphatically not good). Still, reviews such as his are far more valuable than any one or two sentence throw off. Thank you, friend.

Triple Honest

Now that I'm making a heartfelt effort at putting myself 'out there' I'm getting more and more Amazon reviews on my books. Here's a favorite, about my first book A Subtle Armageddon:

I had to make a decision to rate the novel either a 3 or 4 star. It was a tough read for me since the story just seemed to describe a man wandering around and experiencing many things for the first time. I decided that perhaps I did not like the book since I am not a big fan of either of the two authors that seems to influence the author and decided on awarding a 4 star. Perhaps if you like this type of genre, you might be more impressed.

I like this little review, basically for its honesty. There are to my mind three levels of honesty within it.

First, the man is honest with me. He admits that he isn't a fan of the writers who inspire me (Tolkien and CS Lewis). That's all right. I'm an adult, and I realize that what I pen isn't going to be everybody's cup of tea. Still, he informs me without rancor that the story isn't for him. I respect that.

Second, he's factually correct. The main actor in ASA is (at least at first) simply wandering around and things just 'happen' to him. That was done on purpose as I developed the story and, I will argue, was necessary under the circumstances I imposed upon myself in writing the book. But the reviewer makes a fair criticism: it all can appear random and unimportant, at least at a casual glance. 

Third, while grading it in the standard Amazon five star format, he waffles between 3 and 4 but then assigns it a fourth star precisely because he realizes his prejudices might be affecting his judgement. He's playing fair (to my writing as well as his views) and I highly respect that.

So, for something which is less than a stellar review it is nonetheless a decent and valid one. I have to appreciate it on that ground, and I wish more folks (including me) might be more like that in things we say and do. I think it's how human interaction should be.

Lookit This

Well, see here: my book  Michael's Story , the second book of the Infinity series, is now available as an ebook for just $2.99. 

Thanks to my son Charlie and daughter in law Tarina for their help in getting it up and running. I hope to have book three of the series, with the working title The Interim Generation, available soon. Book Four is also manuscript ready, but I haven't come up with a title for it yet. Book Four just doesn't seem imaginative enough.

If I may say, your holiday excess shopping would be incomplete without the purchase of Michael's Story in paperback or ebook form. And don't forget A Subtle Armageddon , the first Infinity series book (available in paperback and Kindle) or David Gideon , a stand alone novel. 

Thank you.