Byron Gordon

Biography

Byron Gordon grew up in the rural Eastern Shore of Maryland, USA. One of six children, he soon discovered his love of reading, ranging from the clever humor of P.G. Wodehouse to the epic fantasy of Tolkien to the fast paced science fiction of Timothy Zahn. Fed on this widely varied diet, his imagination blossomed and he began to write, desiring to create worlds and adventures of his own.

After realizing the bleak financial prospects of an aspiring writer trying to break into the fiction realm, Byron enlisted in the United States Coast Guard. He spent an extra week in Coast Guard Boot Camp (Cape May, NJ) for writing during the breaks between classes. After Boot Camp he traveled to California for training in radio communications. Following the completion of his training, he spent three years on a Coast Guard Cutter, interdicting and repatriating illegal migrants. He currently is still on active duty and plans search and rescue efforts on the east coast of the USA.

Despite the intense, and often hectic, schedule that military life entails, Byron has continued to write in his free time. While writing a complete novel still proves elusive, he has composed multiple short stories and a small amount of poetry. In the spring of 2011, he started publishing his writings electronically and now has a fair number of short stories and poetry available online in a variety of formats.

Smashwords Interview

What do you read for pleasure?
I read a little of everything. I try to focus on books within the genre's I write, just to see what everyone else is doing and broaden my exposure to the tropes and pitfalls and all that jazz. But mostly because I love the escapism of fantasy, the action of thrillers, and the language of hardboiled fiction.

Right now, on my to-be-read list, I have The Nautical Chart, The Phillip K Dick Reader, and a half dozen or so assorted fantasy titles on my Kindle. The last two books I read were Character and Plot by Jeff Gerke, and Little Brother by Corey Doctorow. The first was good (if you're interested in writing) and the second was excellent, especially if you like sci-fi thrillers.
What is your e-reading device of choice?
My wife gave me an Amazon Kindle as a present several years ago. You know, one of the old ones with the black and white background and the clunky keyboard at the bottom. I honestly prefer actual books. You know, smell of the pages, feel of the paper, the gloss of the cover... who am I kidding, I like to be able to hold something when I spend money on it. I'm hopelessly out of date though, so there you have it...
Read more of this interview.

Where to find Byron Gordon online

Series

The Nephilim Trilogy
Lamech is the son of the Chieftain of Anic, who's only special power is his tendency to babble incomprehensibly when he grows excited. But when the village decides to sacrifice him to appease a marauding giant, Lamech discovers there is more to the world than he realized. Further, he learns the quest for truth exacts a heavy price upon the few champions who dare to pursue it.
Giant Slayer
Price: Free!
Troll Bane
Price: $2.99 USD.
Nephilim
Price: $2.99 USD.
The Vignar Cycle
Robbed of family and future in a genocidal war, a young warrior tries to leave the past behind him. But it is hard to outrun thoughts of vengeance and as his adventures reveal the calculated murder of his parents under the cover of the fighting, Vignar realizes he must confront his past or forever be a slave to it. His quest for vengeance takes him to all corners of the Northlands and pits him against fearsome witches, sword-masters, and pirates. Not to mention the mysterious assassin who murdered his family... Follow Vignar and his friends through this series, reminiscent of Robert E. Howard's Conan tales. The series is initiated by seven episodic short stories and climaxes with a novel length adventure that will leave you begging for more.
A Fey Affair
The Dark Tower
Price: Free!
The Fey Queen
Price: $2.99 USD.
The Knight Errant
Price: $2.99 USD.
A Noble Pawn
Price: $2.99 USD.
The King's Gate
Price: $2.99 USD.
The Wizard of Wyrrid
Price: $2.99 USD.

Books

Not Your Typical Fantasy
Price: $5.99 USD. Words: 72,500. Language: English. Published: May 13, 2020 . Categories: Fiction » Fantasy » Dark, Fiction » Thriller & suspense » Supernatural
This is a fantasy story but not a typical one. The quest is a trans-dimensional assassination. The hero is just trying to survive. Fast cars get a lot of face-time. And there are no dragons or dungeons. They all skipped town. Don't wait to read this non-stop thrill ride featuring villains who might be heroes, heroes who might not be villains, and gods who - well, you'll just have to see.
Nephilim
Series: The Nephilim Trilogy. Price: $2.99 USD. Words: 57,580. Language: English. Published: November 18, 2016 . Categories: Fiction » Fantasy » Epic, Fiction » Thriller & suspense » Supernatural
Lamech is willing to do anything to shut the door on his power and the curse of his father’s legacy. Anything to save himself from becoming a monster. Aclima the Nephilim is the only one who knows how to remove the curse and he barely survived their last encounter. Can he trust her to save him? Lies, intrigue, and blood surround the Nephilim everywhere – and he is rapidly becoming one of them.
The Fencing Master
Price: $1.49 USD. Words: 5,160. Language: English. Published: October 28, 2016 . Categories: Fiction » Fantasy » Urban, Fiction » Adventure » Action
Benedict Weathersbee is a man with a past – not all of it a cup of Earl Gray – and there are some who would see him dead for his sins, imagined or real. Which begs the question who is Benedict, really? A dispossessed British noble, with impeccable manners and a classic sense of style? Or a monster hiding behind a mask with an unquenchable thirst for blood?
Devil's In The Details
Price: $2.99 USD. Words: 6,030. Language: English. Published: October 13, 2016 . Categories: Fiction » Fantasy » Short stories, Fiction » Mystery & detective » Hard-Boiled
Grok had been a scout in the Border Wars for nearly twenty years. Twenty years of selling his bow and sending winged death to countless foes. Old and tired of the killing; a sheriff’s position in a sleepy country town seemed like just the thing. But the monster that Grok must defeat will require all his cunning and strength to defeat. He will win, or die trying. Running is a game for the young.
Pursuit Of Power
Price: $2.99 USD. Words: 6,150. Language: English. Published: September 30, 2016 . Categories: Fiction » Fantasy » Short stories, Fiction » Thriller & suspense » Supernatural
Riordan is a magician, skilled in artifice and sleight of hand – and no slouch at actual magic either. For years he has sought the key to obtaining a relic of great power, one that would elevate him to the status of greatest magician in the entire land. The key might be closer at hand than he realized. But there is no telling what might be lurking behind the magical portals this key will open.
Vignar's Vengeance
Series: The Vignar Cycle. Price: $5.99 USD. Words: 78,810. Language: English. Published: December 22, 2015 . Categories: Fiction » Fantasy » Epic, Fiction » Adventure » Action
The Elven Terror ravaged the Kingdom of the Northmen, nearly exterminating its citizens before a desperate peace could be brokered. After the war, Vignar Olafsson embarks on a quest to bring his parents killer to justice. But his blinding hatred of elves is challenged by his feelings for the intriguing elven agent Mariel. Can he satisfy his thirst for vengeance without losing the woman he loves?
Cards and Corpses
Series: The Gunner Long Casefiles. Price: $5.99 USD. Words: 32,100. Language: English. Published: March 31, 2015 . Categories: Fiction » Thriller & suspense » Crime thriller, Fiction » Mystery & detective » Hard-Boiled
Life in the big city isn't just pretty, it's getting downright dangerous for retired bounty hunter Gunner Long. And complicated to boot. He has taken on two employees, a move he figured would allow him to solve more cases. But there are only so many cases needing a private investigator's attention and in the midst of a dry spell, Gunny finds himself sub-contracted by a spiteful dwarf.
Space Cowboy
Series: The Gunner Long Casefiles. Price: $3.99 USD. Words: 21,370. Language: English. Published: January 10, 2015 . Categories: Fiction » Thriller & suspense » Action & suspense, Fiction » Mystery & detective » Hard-Boiled
He is a heroic maverick marked for death. She is an interstellar cop with a thirst for revenge. Together they take a ride they'll never forget as they run from mafia hitmen, investigate a tragic cruiseline accident, and get caught in the tightening coils of the underworld.
Vignar and the Elven Seer
Series: The Vignar Cycle. Price: $2.99 USD. Words: 9,640. Language: English. Published: January 9, 2015 . Categories: Fiction » Adventure » Action, Fiction » Fantasy » Short stories
Fleeing the wrath of the Uruk King, Vignar and Mariel seek for a being with the wisdom and power to use the Scry of Skein. While the Scry is known to provide answers, it is equally known for misleading those seeking the answers. Or just driving them mad. The quest takes them deep into the mountains, to find an elf who's dabbling in strange magics have caused her to be banished from her homeland.
Vignar and the Viking Gold
Series: The Vignar Cycle. Price: $2.99 USD. Words: 7,980. Language: English. Published: January 9, 2015 . Categories: Fiction » Fantasy » General, Fiction » Adventure » Action
Leaving Halfpeak behind him, Vignar Olafsson joins forces with a dwarfish pirate captain to hunt for a fabled treasure trove. Together they search for the key to the treasure map, braving sea monsters and rival ships alike. But keys come in many shapes and in the end Vignar must decide whether he is only a brigand or, perhaps, something more.
Vignar and the Undead King
Series: The Vignar Cycle. Price: $2.99 USD. Words: 8,960. Language: English. Published: December 27, 2014 . Categories: Fiction » Adventure » Action, Fiction » Fantasy » General
Vignar lost both his parents during the Terror and, he suspects, to the same killer. With Mariel's assistance, the daring warrior embarks on a quest to locate a fabled artifact that will reveal the identity of his parent's killer. Rumor suggests the artifact was entombed with the Kings of Old. In a city that has since become the symbol of Elvish military might...
Vignar and the Dwarvish Doom
Series: The Vignar Cycle. Price: $2.99 USD. Words: 15,790. Language: English. Published: December 21, 2014 . Categories: Fiction » Adventure » Action, Fiction » Fantasy » General
Long ago a great doom fell upon the Dwarven cities. Their gates were locked from within, their forges silenced, and none could say how or why. Now Vignar and Mariel travel to Dwarval, the last remaining settlement of the Dwarvish race. Their intention is to browse the markets and purchase some trinkets, but it is not long before they realize that Dwarval is about to suffer the same fate.
Vignar and the Jarl of Urdurheim
Series: The Vignar Cycle. Price: $2.99 USD. Words: 11,390. Language: English. Published: December 21, 2014 . Categories: Fiction » Fantasy » General, Fiction » Adventure » Action
Vignar and Mariel journey to Fellheim, the seat of the Warlord's power, seeking a reward for their deeds. But upon arrival they find a city plagued by a shadowy underworld figure, one who is threatening the Warlord himself. Vignar cannot refuse the savior of his people, and his former general, and is drawn into an intrigue that runs from the rooftops of Fellheim to the very sewers below.
Vignar and the Witch's Revenge
Series: The Vignar Cycle. Price: $2.99 USD. Words: 7,960. Language: English. Published: December 14, 2014 . Categories: Fiction » Fantasy » General, Fiction » Adventure » Action
Traveling in disguise among his hated foes, Vignar Olafsson is drawn into the plight of a border camp. On Mariel's insistence, and scenting a reward in the offing, Vignar offers to track down and slay whatever creature is stalking the night. He does not realize that this will bring him to confront an old foe, one who nearly defeated him before.
Vignar and the Halfpeak Murders
Series: The Vignar Cycle. Price: $0.99 USD. Words: 8,220. Language: English. Published: December 7, 2014 . Categories: Fiction » Fantasy » General, Fiction » Fantasy » Short stories
A pair of grisly murders rock the tranquility of the three villages on Halfpeak Mountain. The sheer bloodiness of the deaths indicates an animalistic rage, but Vignar Olafsson sees a different pattern. A veteran of the war that nearly annihilated his race, Vignar has seen killings like these in the past. Yet as he pursues the murderer, a deeper plot threatens to engulf him.
I, Werewolf
Price: $5.99 USD. Words: 64,600. Language: English. Published: May 17, 2014 . Categories: Fiction » Fantasy » Urban, Fiction » Thriller & suspense » Action & suspense
Harry Fitz is struggling to make it as a standup comic. That's before a witch casts a spell that attaches a wolf spirit to Harry and turns him into a werewolf. What follows is a hilariously desperate romp through the streets and suburbs of Boston as Harry tries to deal with the wolf spirit, save his girlfriend, fight off unsavory characters of all sorts, and not get killed in the process.
Troll Bane
Series: The Nephilim Trilogy. Price: $2.99 USD. Words: 15,670. Language: American English. Published: January 26, 2014 . Categories: Fiction » Fantasy » General, Fiction » Adventure » Action
A dark parentage. Tribal secrets. Horrid crimes. When he learns the truth, Lamech embarks on a quest for vengeance and is caught in a desperate web of blood feuds, magic powers, and soul stealing sex. It will take all his cunning to survive long enough to achieve his revenge and escape from the clutches of the Nephilim.
The Guardian Of Borningdale
Price: $0.99 USD. Words: 4,460. Language: English. Published: November 6, 2013 . Categories: Fiction » Fantasy » Short stories, Fiction » Fantasy » General
Simone De Albion is the heir apparent of a peaceful country estate in the valley of Borningdale. But with the approach of All Hallow's Eve, mystical forces begin to work in the valley and violence and destruction looms on the horizon. A wandering magician offers his insight and Simone is faced with the task of defeating the Goblin of Borningdale and saving his people. Can he do it?
The Wizard of Wyrrid
Series: A Fey Affair, Book 6. Price: $2.99 USD. Words: 11,410. Language: English. Published: September 22, 2013 . Categories: Fiction » Fantasy » General, Fiction » Thriller & suspense » Action & suspense
Having battled through betrayal, traps, and the Wizard's guards, The Gray Knight and his companions must face the Wizard himself and his treacherous accomplice. In a thundering finale filled with illusion, deception, and magic, The Gray Knight is utterly out of his element and must rely on his companions and his raw courage alone.
The King's Gate
Series: A Fey Affair, Book 5. Price: $2.99 USD. Words: 5,550. Language: English. Published: September 22, 2013 . Categories: Fiction » Fantasy » General, Fiction » Thriller & suspense » Action & suspense
Confronted by a puzzle, The Gray Knight is forced to rely on his companions to get them into the Wizard Tower. But soon enough his skills with his sword are all that stand between them and disaster.
A Noble Pawn
Series: A Fey Affair, Book 4. Price: $2.99 USD. Words: 4,220. Language: English. Published: September 22, 2013 . Categories: Fiction » Fantasy » General, Fiction » Thriller & suspense » Action & suspense
The Gray Knight begins to sneak into the Wizard's Tower. But he is forced to question what he knows when betrayal and confusion strike.
The Knight Errant
Series: A Fey Affair, Book 3. Price: $2.99 USD. Words: 4,610. Language: English. Published: September 22, 2013 . Categories: Fiction » Fantasy » General, Fiction » Thriller & suspense » Action & suspense
After defending the faerie stronghold from betrayal, The Gray Knight recovers from his wounds and plans the next stage of their quest. Secret tunnels and sexy faeries abound.
The Fey Queen
Series: A Fey Affair, Book 2. Price: $2.99 USD. Words: 6,670. Language: English. Published: September 22, 2013 . Categories: Fiction » Fantasy » General, Fiction » Thriller & suspense » Action & suspense
The Gray Knight embarks upon a quest to free Elizabeth's lands. But in a power game between magicians, who is can they really trust?
The Dark Tower
Series: A Fey Affair, Book 1. Price: Free! Words: 4,770. Language: English. Published: September 22, 2013 . Categories: Fiction » Fantasy » General, Fiction » Thriller & suspense » Action & suspense
A mysterious knight errant follows rumors of a princess imprisoned in the forest. Could this be the adventure he's been seeking?
Hunting The Horned Bandit
Price: $2.99 USD. Words: 5,550. Language: English. Published: September 8, 2013 . Categories: Fiction » Fantasy » General, Fiction » Fantasy » Short stories
Short Story Recommended Ages: 14+ When his lands are ravaged by an unstoppable horned bandit chieftain the Duke hires the former bridgebuilder, Leonidus. The architect's new specialty? Find trouble and seperate its head from its shoulders.
Twice The Trouble
Series: The Chronicles of the Holy Isles, Book 2. Price: $4.99 USD. Words: 30,500. Language: English. Published: August 25, 2013 . Categories: Fiction » Fantasy » General, Fiction » Fantasy » Short stories
Sir James Flickerflame and Wain the Barbarian return in these two stirring tales of bravery and adventure. Despite the valiant efforts of the Holy Council evil continues to loom ever greater over the Holy Isles and Sir James and Wain must stand once more in the breach.
Stalked
Price: $4.49 USD. Words: 10,780. Language: English. Published: June 22, 2013 . Categories: Fiction » Horror » General, Fiction » Fantasy » Urban
Jeffrey Forsyth is terrified, but he has a plan. A plan to save his wife and himself. However, plans rarely survive contact with reality and when it all falls apart Jeffrey is left to rely on his courage alone. The only problem is he hasn't got any...
Machines And Men
Series: The Gunner Long Casefiles, Book 3. Price: $6.99 USD. Words: 47,120. Language: English. Published: May 30, 2013 . Categories: Fiction » Science fiction » Adventure, Fiction » Mystery & detective » Hard-Boiled
The last time Gunny worked with Torinaga Fukoshima, Gunny collected a bullet in the hip instead of his bounty and the two partners parted ways. Now Torinaga is back, wanting Gunny to help him search for a ship lost in the void. The money is good, and he promises there will be no gun play. Of course, that's what he said the last time Gunny was shot...
Lady Of Victory
Price: $1.49 USD. Words: 4,660. Language: English. Published: April 23, 2013 . Categories: Fiction » Adventure » General, Fiction » Romance » Short stories
Could an eight year self-imposed exile cure a broken heart? Chris tried running away, in James Bond style. But when he gets the phone call from his old flame, he is confronted with the awkward truth that he's still not over her. If eight years and an ocean doesn't do the trick, what will?
Given No Choice
Price: $1.49 USD. Words: 2,870. Language: English. Published: March 28, 2013 . Categories: Fiction » Horror » Crime, Fiction » Thriller & suspense » Crime thriller
Short Story Recommended Ages: 17+ Dan was a simple man. A licensed plumber and occasional construction worker to earn a little extra. He fit a classic American model: loving wife and two beautiful little kids. He was happy, comfortable, and never sought out adventure. Until he came face to face with the last decision he would ever make...
Three Strokes Subpar
Price: $1.49 USD. Words: 2,480. Language: English. Published: February 13, 2013 . Categories: Fiction » Thriller & suspense » General, Fiction » Plays & Screenplays » American
Jim Oglethorpe lived for golf. It was his dream to spend everyday of the week on the links perfecting his stroke and he thought he had finally found the perfect scheme to manage it. But even the most perfect scheme's can come apart, especially when they revolve around entrapping a spirited woman.
Gentleman's Debt
Price: $1.49 USD. Words: 4,760. Language: English. Published: December 19, 2012 . Categories: Fiction » Adventure » Men’s adventure
Under what circumstances would a British gentleman engage a lowly Sepoy in a duel on the streets? And what Sepoy would dare to flaunt social conventions in such a manner? Only one already celebrated in song. Afterward everyone said the Sahib Adrian struck first. They didn't know how right they were...
A Petty Slight
Price: $1.49 USD. Words: 4,300. Language: English. Published: November 28, 2012 . Categories: Fiction » Thriller & suspense » General, Fiction » Fantasy » Short stories
Short Story Recommended Ages: 17+ The Apocalypse of Charleston. A powerful man brushes off a dinner invitation that he sees as a waste of time. Later he is visited by his dismissed host. As the truth of his situation becomes apparent, he learns how his decision has endangered not only his own family but the entire population of the city.
Three Times Lucky
Series: The Chronicles of the Holy Isles, Book 1. Price: Free! Words: 14,130. Language: English. Published: August 20, 2012 . Categories: Fiction » Fantasy » General, Fiction » Adventure » Action
Sir James Flickerflame and Wain the Barbarian never set out to be two stalwart heroes saving the world from eternal evil. Sir James would much prefer to lead Vespers at the chapel on the corner and Wain would rather hang out in the local bars and instigate drunken brawls. But through the machinations of fate (and their boss) somehow these two ordinary fellows wind up battling the wicked.
Spectre Of War
Price: $4.49 USD. Words: 11,730. Language: English. Published: July 2, 2012 . Categories: Fiction » Horror » Ghost, Fiction » Adventure » Men’s adventure
Novella Recommended Ages: 17+ John Grahmson returned from the second World War with a limp and looking forward to seeing his girl, the woman whose memory carried him through the terrors and pain of battle. But when French ghosts and voodoo witches start to get involved, John finds himself a pawn in a deadly war of revenge.
More Than A Flesh Wound
Price: $1.49 USD. Words: 4,100. Language: English. Published: June 12, 2012 . Categories: Fiction » Adventure » War & military adventure, Fiction » Inspirational
More Than A Flesh Wound is a fictional story examining the aftermath of injuries and what it takes to overcome them. This story is a tribute, not just to those who serve, but to their families who have the courage to face the possibility of this situation. It is a reminder, not to forget that those who gave nearly all, sometimes need someone to give some back.
The Girl In Brown - A Gunner Long Case
Series: The Gunner Long Casefiles, Book 1. Price: $4.49 USD. Words: 16,250. Language: English. Published: June 4, 2012 . Categories: Fiction » Science fiction » General, Fiction » Mystery & detective » General
An amoral scientist trying to regain control of his experiments. A deceptively innocent woman fleeing dangerous people. And a random vigilante pursuing unknown horizons. It all adds up to a game of deadly intrigue and weird danger which Gunner Long, one-time bounty hunter turned cynical detective, must play through if he is to escape with his life.
Business or Pleasure - A Gunner Long Case
Series: The Gunner Long Casefiles, Book 4. Price: $1.49 USD. Words: 4,790. Language: English. Published: May 25, 2012 . Categories: Fiction » Science fiction » Short stories, Fiction » Mystery & detective » Short Stories
Short Story Reccomended Ages: 17+ It seemed like just another simple tail job. Follow erring husband, get evidence of him erring in the act, report back, and collect not enough money. Easy enough work that would keep Gunnies landlord at bay. But somehow Gunny finds himself hanging off a skybridge with a screaming woman clutching to him and a thousand foot drop below. Could the day possibly get w
Stark Salvation
Price: $1.49 USD. Words: 7,190. Language: English. Published: March 22, 2012 . Categories: Fiction » Romance » Short stories
Short Story Recommended Ages: 17+ Rachael's world was collapsing around her when she found the injured sea turtle on the beach. A sometime volunteer and animal lover, she felt forced to help the poor creature. Little did she know that the by taking care of the turtle she would ignite a firestorm that would threaten her very life.
A Lion In The Snow
Price: $1.49 USD. Words: 4,130. Language: English. Published: February 24, 2012 . Categories: Fiction » Christian » Short stories, Fiction » Fantasy » Short stories
Short Story Ages 16+ Though escaping from a life of war with his flocks in the hills, Benaiah feels obligated to assist a nearby village with a lion that terrorized their livestock. What lies ahead is a battle that even the seasoned warrior dreads. Descending into a pit with a violent and massive king of the animal kingdom.
Mistress or Mate - A Gunner Long Case
Series: The Gunner Long Casefiles, Book 2. Price: $1.49 USD. Words: 3,320. Language: English. Published: January 10, 2012 . Categories: Fiction » Science fiction » Short stories
Short Story Recommended Ages: 17+ It's like this, you see. Gordon Thelb is a pal of mine. We helped each other out in a mixup on Mezzic a while back and I worked with his uncle a bit before that. Thelb is a standup kid, up and coming space ranger captain, but he's fallen head over heels for some skirt. Apparently a pretty rich skirt, who doesn't appear to do any honest work.
Diamond of the Serengeti
Price: $1.49 USD. Words: 5,480. Language: English. Published: December 23, 2011 . Categories: Fiction » Adventure » Action, Fiction » Adventure » Men’s adventure
** Short Story ** A stranger arrives at the Serengeti Ranger Station, closely pursued by a pack of killers. He claims to be searching for diamonds, though the rangers know there are no precious stones on the Great Plain. The only riches to be found is ivory poached from the dwindling herds of elephants. However, the stranger is looking for a jewel of great price and he knows the killers have it.
So You Don't Have Time
Price: $0.99 USD. Words: 2,860. Language: English. Published: November 29, 2011 . Categories: Nonfiction » Reference » Writing skills, Nonfiction » Reference » Personal & Practical Guides
(4.50 from 2 reviews)
You want to write. Specifically you want to write short stories. But you don't know how, you've tried before and the result was disappointing. You don't have time. This short chapbook will walk you through the basic steps of writing short stories, and with only limited amounts of time. It contains the lessons I've learned from my past ten years of writing experience.
Songs of Magic and Time
Price: $2.99 USD. Words: 2,520. Language: English. Published: November 29, 2011 . Categories: Poetry » American poetry, Fiction » Anthologies » Short stories - single author
The title says it all. Songs of Magic and Time is a collection of poetry that includes six short works, three longer ones, and ends with two sonnets. They address the timeless wonder of the natural world and the magic that it intertwines with our souls as we pass through life.
The Bhut Jolokia Caper
Price: $1.49 USD. Words: 3,030. Language: English. Published: November 29, 2011 . Categories: Fiction » Mystery & detective » Short Stories, Fiction » Humor & comedy » General
Short Story Recommended Ages: 17+ Welcome to the Good Diner, the favorite hangout of our gang. Thumbs and Locks might not be showing up today but I'm still here, keeping up the respectable front for us. I'll probably have to get a real job sooner or later, but if you have a minute, take a seat, and I'll tell you all about the last caper.
George and the Dragon
Price: $1.49 USD. Words: 3,940. Language: English. Published: October 11, 2011 . Categories: Fiction » Fantasy » General, Fiction » Humor & comedy » General
Short Story Humblamax the dragon loses his job (guarding the treasure hoard of an Evil Overlord) and finds himself in a difficult economy without any marketable skills. Searching for a little peace and solitude he winds up meeting with the famous knight of legend, Saint George. A humorous re-telling of the classic tale, only this time from the dragons point of view.
Log of the El Dorado
Price: $1.49 USD. Words: 2,680. Language: English. Published: September 29, 2011 . Categories: Fiction » Horror » Ghost, Fiction » Horror » General
Short Story Recommended Ages: 14+ A blood stained lifeboat is found floating aimlessly south of Jamaica with nothing onboard except a journal and a corpse. Follow the twists of the suspense filled narrative contained within the log of the El Dorado and learn what happened to her crew. At least, what might have happened to them. In the end you must ask yourself, what do you believe?
Giant Slayer
Series: The Nephilim Trilogy. Price: Free! Words: 4,160. Language: English. Published: September 27, 2011 . Categories: Fiction » Fantasy » General, Fiction » Fantasy » Historical
Short Story Recommended Ages: 17+ Even small tribal villages built on idealistic mountain slopes have problems. Crops wither, cows run off, the sheep are stupid, well, you know. For the tribe of Anic, more or less happily settled between the Great Forest and the Blooded Mountains, these every day problems are compounded by their chieftain's heir being mentally deficient.
Spook's Hill
Price: $1.49 USD. Words: 3,800. Language: English. Published: September 27, 2011 . Categories: Fiction » Fantasy » Paranormal, Fiction » Horror » General
Short Story - Robert Dole returns to his hometown after many years away and learns that the terrible event that made him leave still haunts the area. When one of the locals decides to prove that the haunting is make believe, Robert must chose to face his fears or let someone walk unwittingly toward their death.
Arminium
Price: $4.49 USD. Words: 10,910. Language: English. Published: September 27, 2011 . Categories: Fiction » Science fiction » General, Fiction » Science fiction » Military
Novella When a promised "vacation" campaign ends in disaster, two rival mercenaries must work together to survive in a desperate bid to escape the planet they are caught on. Follow their action packed adventure to see whether they can defy a planetary government and escape with their lives, or if they end in the shallow grave fate of the mercenary warrior.

Byron Gordon's tag cloud

action    adventure    adventure action travel abroad    adventure ebook    african adventure    angels    assasin    benaiah a lion in a pit in a snowy day lion adventure christian action men of davids bodyguard biblical heroes    bhut jolokia    blade    boston    bounty hunter    boy    british raj    burgalry space travel private investigator private eye dectective science fiction    cats    charleston    christian theme    clever hero    comedian    coming of age    conan    conan viking murder treasurehunter warrior elf fantasy    crime    criminal minds    cunning hero    dark    dark fantasy    dark fantasy werewolf curse irish celtic urban fantasy horror    demon    demons    detective    detective story    dog    drago    dragon    dragon fantasy knight folktale young adult humor funny    drizzt    eldorado    elves    evil scientists    family trouble    fantasy    fantasy giant    fantasy hero    fear    fighting evil    folktale    frightening    futuristic investigations    geeks    genies    george    george and the dragon    ghost    ghost pepper    ghost story    ghurka    giant slayer    golf short story twist murder subpar golf story    greek gods    grim    grimdark    gungadin    gunner long    hero    horror    horses    humor    humourous capers    humourous crime fiction    humourous short fiction    ied    insanity    investigations    investigative scifi    javelin    knight    knight princess tower sword and sorcery fantasy wizard fairy    knights    knights in shining armor    knights on a quest    legend    librarian    lighthouse    loss romance exile lost love sailboats    magic    male lead    massachuetts    medieval france prince magician mystery coming of age good over evil light fantasy    mens adventure    mental trauma    merlin    military adventure    money    monster    monster hunter    murder    mystery    mythology    mythology boy coming of age vengeance father son struggle hopeful finding self    noir    norse fantasy    norse gods    norse viking murder treasurehunter warrior conan zombie    norse viking murder treasurehunter warrior dragon dwarf    norse viking murder treasurehunter warrior dragon zombie    norse viking murder treasurehunter warrior elf fantasy    norse viking murder vengeance warrior elf fantasy    novella    octopus    orcs    overcoming disability    paladin    persian    pirates    poetry about nature    poetry anthology    poetry book    poetry collection    poetry ebook    poetry fantasy    poetry male author    poetry writing    point lookout    police    politics    private investigator futuristic detective noir corruption truth good vs evil    prosthetic    prosthetic leg    prosthetics    ptsd    quest    ragnorak    raj    rhyming poetry    romantic quest    rpg    safari    sailboat    salem    satire    science fiction    science fiction short story    scifi    scifi science fiction novella futuristic warfare adventure action commando    sea    sea story    sea turtle romance rescue drama south carolina running abusive relationship fear victory heroine in distress heroine    serial killer    short stories    short story    short story crime fiction    short story humor    soldier    sonnets    spear    speech impediment    spirit walking    strong woman    suicide    survival    survivor    suspense    suspense and thrillers    suspense books    suspense danger    suspense fiction    suspense horror    suspense mystery    suspense short stories    sword and sorcery    sword and sorcery vampire paladin knights adventure action rpg quest christian theme    tentacle    terror    thriller    thriller futuristic space private investigator detective corporate corruption strong female gruff veteran morality noir hardboiled    truth    turkish    underworld    unknown    unsolved mystery    urban fantasy    vampire    viking    voodoo priestess    war    warrior    werewolf    witches    wizard    wizard merlin genies persian turkish magic action adventure    wolf    world war ii    wounded warrior    writing    writing advice    writing craft    writing exercises    writing fiction strategy    writing instruction    writing short fiction    writing techniques    writing tips    young adult    zombies thriller detective hardboiled space marlowe spade private investigations   

Smashwords book reviews by Byron Gordon

  • Bad Blood on Nov. 01, 2011

    Review of Bad Blood By James D MacDonald This is a highschool werewolf novel, which is a category of literature that I'm normally not interested in. The young foolish highschoolers, the raging hormones, the slow painful realization that the world does not exist for their pleasure, the incorrigible romantic slant towards everything, all colored by the middle aged authors nostalgia for their youthful past. Just writing that sentence is about enough to make me sick. I almost didn't read the book at all for that reason. However, Mr. MacDonald is reputed to be an excellent author and I was dying to read some of his work, so when I saw the 100% coupon code, I couldn't resist. I loved Bad Blood. I couldn't put it down (figuratively speaking, because I read it in electronic format) once I started. The action was crisp and believable, the dialogue was snappy, the characters were real and believable, and all of those things that make teenage novels sickening were (mostly) absent. I say mostly because there were some “drama queen frustration” scene's that were in the book BUT they were mercifully brief, utterly understandable, and fit quite naturally. That type of thing never dominated the book, it didn't have a chance to. The only gripe that I have is how long it took the main character to realize what was going on. However, in all fairness, it was a very realistic portayal of the human tendency to refuse to believe the facts because we simply don't want to face the truth. While this book contains werewolves and highschoolers, it is really about a far deeper theme: the acceptance of personal responsibility and the struggle that every human has in taking control of themselves. Sound familiar? Watch/read Spiderman again ;) I haven't read the next book of the series (Sorry Mr. MacDonald, I'm on a budget where pennies are like hen's teeth) but I hope to in the not so distant future. If you are looking for an entertaining read that holds deeper truths within it, I highly recommend picking a copy of this book up
  • Trafficked! on June 21, 2012

    Trafficked! By John Peace Trafficked is a Sci/Fi Novella of galaxy spanning proportions. Once you set foot on the first page you're sucked through the proverbial wormhole into a not so distant future where a multitude of alien species have invaded Earth and are proceeding to pillage it for resources, while letting alien diseases run unchecked. The human governments are either unable or unwilling to resist and wind up not doing very much at all. All of this is told through the eyes of Rashad Stevens, a young man scraping by in Cairo as a street vendor, desperate to make enough money to buy medicine for his mother, who is infected with an alien disease. In pursuit of this honorable goal he, along with his good friend Hany, are drawn into the despicable interstellar slave trade and the novella details their fanatastic adventures as they attempt to escape. The entirety of the novella addresses a familiar theme, man searching for God in a troubled world, and paints a loosely veiled picture of the hideousness of human trafficking in our world today. Mr. Peace has an excellent narrative vision and the storyline flows like the best classic adventure novels. He is also to be commended on his imagination, not only of the aliens and their technology, but the advanced human technology that is spookily adjacent to what we have today. The story could benefit from some additional editting. Another minor issue was that some things were not clear, especially the technology that Rashad has access to in the beginning but seems to lose as the story continues. I figured it out, but if I hadn't read Mindware Issues by the same author, I would have had a tough time of it. Overall though, Mr. Peace is to be congratulated for creating a readable, classic story that addresses real world issues in a sci/fi setting. Let me finish by saying that I rate harshly. Bestsellers like Jim Butcher are in the five star range. I put Mr. Peace at three stars. He is worth the $1.50 he charges and I'm looking forward to see what he does next.