Showing posts with label Space Opera. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Space Opera. Show all posts

Thursday, November 13, 2025

Exclusive Character Interview: The Resistance Speaks – Krista, Voice of the Rebellion

In this exclusive interview, we sit down with Krista, a courageous operative of the Freedom Fighters. As the first point of contact for Sophia and Lucca, Krista’s choices helped set in motion a daring escape that would alter the course of the galaxy. Here, Krista shares her perspective on survival, loyalty, and the price of defiance in a time of tyranny.

Interviewer: Krista, thank you for joining us today. Can you tell us a little about your background and how you became involved with the Freedom Fighters?

Krista: It wasn’t one dramatic moment; it was years of watching people silenced, families torn apart, and entire worlds crushed under the weight of a regime that demanded obedience. I realized that if I didn’t stand up, I’d be complicit. Joining the Freedom Fighters wasn’t about glory. It was about survival with purpose.

Interviewer: You were the first point of contact for Sophia and Lucca. What made you decide to trust them?

Krista: Trust is dangerous in times like these. But when I met them, I saw something different. They weren’t just running for themselves; they were risking everything for someone else. That kind of courage is rare. It told me they were worth the gamble.

Interviewer: Working under Bret, the leader of the Freedom Fighters, what role do you play in the rebellion?

Krista: Bret carries the burden of command, but he can’t be everywhere. My role is to listen, watch, and make connections that others might overlook. Sometimes that means slipping into places where rebels aren’t welcome. Sometimes it means extending a hand to strangers who might change the course of the fight.

Interviewer: The galaxy is burning with unrest. What do you believe is the greatest misconception about the rebellion?

Krista: That we’re reckless. People think we fight because we crave chaos. The truth is, we fight because we crave peace. Every risk we take, every life we lose is not for destruction. It’s for the chance to build something better.

Interviewer: Meeting Sophia and Lucca eventually led to a daring escape. What was going through your mind during that mission?

Krista: Fear, of course. Only a fool says they don’t feel fear. But beneath it was resolve. I knew if we failed, it wasn’t just lives lost, it was hope itself. And hope is the one thing we can’t afford to lose.

Interviewer: What keeps you moving forward, despite the danger?

Krista: The faces of those who can’t fight for themselves. The children who deserve to grow up free. The memory of every friend we’ve buried. That’s what drives me. That’s why I’ll never stop.

Interviewer: Krista, thank you for sharing your story. Before we wrap up, is there anything you’d like to say to those who might one day join the cause?

Krista: Don’t wait for the perfect moment. There isn’t one. Change begins the second you decide you won’t live in silence anymore.


Purchase Links

Amazon Global Link

https://mybook.to/PlanetaryWars

Universal Link

https://books2read.com/u/490xN8


Mary Ann Bernal is a distinguished alumna of Mercy College in Dobbs Ferry, NY, where she earned her degree in Business Administration. Her literary journey began with the 2009 publication of her debut novel in The Briton and the Dane series, marking the start of a richly diverse body of work that spans historical fiction, contemporary short stories, science fiction/fantasy, and fast-paced adventure novellas.

Her recent publications include Crusader’s Path, a poignant redemption tale set during the First Crusade; Forgiving Nero, a compelling exploration of familial bonds in Ancient Rome; and the award-winning AnaRose adventure series, chronicling the daring escapades of a museum curator-turned-relic hunter. Mary Ann’s work has been honored by the Independent Press Award, the NYC Big Book Award, Chanticleer International Book Awards, the B.R.A.G. Medallion, and the Reader Views Reviewer’s Choice Awards. Her short fiction anthologies have likewise earned distinction, most notably from the American Legacy Book Awards. She was also recognized with the Editor’s Choice Award for Literary Excellence by Reader’s House magazine.

A dedicated supporter of the United States military since Operation Desert Storm, Mary Ann has actively engaged in letter-writing campaigns and related initiatives. Her advocacy has been featured on KMTV’s The Morning Blend and in the Omaha World-Herald. As a celebrated author, she has appeared on numerous reader blogs and book promotion platforms. Mary Ann currently resides in Elkhorn, Nebraska, where she continues to craft stories that inspire and endure.

Connect with Mary Ann

Website: http://www.maryannbernal.com/

Whispering Legends Press: https://www.whisperinglegendspress.com/

Blog: https://maryannbernal.blogspot.com/

Amazon author page http://www.amazon.com/Mary-Ann-Bernal/e/B003D2DPZ4

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/maryannbernal

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maryannbernal

Linked-In:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/mary-ann-bernal-a9a05b33/

YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/user/maryannbernal

BookBub  https://www.bookbub.com/authors/mary-ann-bernal

X: https://x.com/BritonandDane

Threads:  https://www.threads.com/@maryannbernal

BlueSky:  https://bsky.app/profile/maryannbernal.bsky.social




Monday, October 13, 2025

Freshly Pressed & Ready to Play: Planetary Wars: Rise of an Empire by Mary Ann Bernal Now in Audiobook Format

 


Planetary Wars: Rise of an Empire
By: Mary Ann Bernal
Narrated by: Virtual Voice using cutting-edge technology
Length: 7 hours 37 minutes
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: October 12, 2025
Language: English
Publisher: Whispering Legends Press

 A Tyrant’s Love. A Moral Dilemma. A Universe in Peril.

In a galaxy under tyranny, Dr. Anastasia Dennison’s love with Jayden Henry Shaw, a feared dictator, brings conflict. She enjoys war-born luxury, ignoring the surrounding suffering. However, as whispers of rebellion grow, her conscience hears the cries of the oppressed. Facing a choice between power and justice, Anastasia’s decision could change the galaxy’s fate. Will she stay silent beside the tyrant or rise as hope’s beacon against his dark rule?

 Listen to a Sample HERE   

 


  Amazon Global Link

 



Friday, October 10, 2025

Planetary Wars: Rise of an Empire by Mary Ann Bernal – A Cinematic Reckoning Across the Stars


 Stars flicker above a fractured galaxy. A woman raised in privilege stands at the edge of rebellion and redemption.

 Watch the Trailer

 Witness the awakening of Dr. Anastasia Dennison, where conscience collides with empire.

 


 Beneath the Throne: Where Silence Ends and Revolution Begins.

Before the uprising, there was devotion. Before the fury, denial. Dr. Anastasia Dennison fell for Henry Shaw, a man of mystery, charm, and quiet authority, never suspecting he was Jayden Henry Shaw, the architect of galactic oppression. Swept into a whirlwind romance, she married him before the truth surfaced. And when it did, she was already deep inside his world: a research lab cloaked in secrecy, a military compound pulsing with power, and a home planet where privilege masked tyranny.

This quiet moment, caught between love and awakening, captures the soul of Planetary Wars: Rise of an Empire. It’s a story of reckoning. Of how affection can blind, and truth can burn. A woman once shielded by status becomes the spark of a revolution that could shatter worlds.

A Note from the Author

I wrote Planetary Wars: Rise of an Empire to explore the cost of silence and the courage it takes to break it. Anastasia’s journey is one of transformation, from sheltered loyalty to fierce defiance. This trailer invites you to witness her choice and ask yourself: what would you risk to do what’s right?

About the Book

Dr. Anastasia Dennison lives in the lap of war-born luxury, raised by the very dictator who forged the empire. She’s brilliant, loyal, and blind to the suffering beneath her feet, until rebellion erupts and her conscience awakens.

As the galaxy fractures, Anastasia must choose: stand beside the man who gave her everything, or risk it all to lead a revolution she never imagined. Her decision will shape the fate of millions.

Planetary Wars: Rise of an Empire is a bold space opera that explores justice, betrayal, and the moral cost of survival in a universe where silence is complicity and hope is rebellion.

Ready to Read?

Step into the heart of a galactic uprising. Witness the rise.

Buy the Book

 Amazon Link:

http://mybook.to/PlanetaryWars

 Universal Link

https://books2read.com/u/490xN8

 Learn more at

https://maryannbernal.com



 

 

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Friday, December 17, 2021

Smashwords End of Year Sale December 17, 2021 - January 1, 2022 - Exclusive deals on Indie Books

Award-winning author, Mary Ann Bernal, is participating in the Smashwords End of Year Sale
 (December 17, 2021 – January 1, 2022) 


  View Mary Ann's Smashwords profile page  HERE.


 Something for everyone by multi-genre author, Mary Ann Bernal.

The Briton and the Dane series - an action and adventure drama set in Dark Ages England when the Vikings terrorized the civilized world. A historical fiction romance collection featuring Concordia, a coming-of-age escapade, and Timeline, a fantasy time travel love story transcending time.

Planetary Wars Rise of an Empire - a science fiction/fantasy romantic adventure.

Crusader's Path - a historical fiction romance adventure set against the backdrop of the First Crusade.

Forgiving Nero - a Historical Biographical Fiction novel set in Ancient Rome when Emperor Nero ruled the Roman Empire.

Scribbler Tales - a multi-genre collection of short stories whose genres include the paranormal, action and adventure, mystery and thrillers, fantasy, romance, drama, and suspense. A single-author contemporary fiction anthology.




Thursday, July 1, 2021

13th annual Smashwords Summer/Winter Sale July 1 – July 31, 2021

 


Courtesy Doc Ivan Graphix
@DocIvanSFN

Author Mary Ann Bernal (historical fiction/romance, contemporary short stories, space opera) is participating in the 13th annual Smashwords Summer/Winter Sale.

Why not stop by and have a look?

Smashwords Link








Sunday, June 13, 2021

Planetary Wars Rise of an Empire by Mary Ann Bernal - hardcover edition now available


Caught up in a whirlwind romance, Anastasia Dennison, M.D., does not realize her husband is the terrifying dictator, Jayden Henry Shaw, who rules the galaxy with an iron fist while pretending to defend the vulnerable against the Imperial Forces of the Empire.

Denying the existence of widespread suffering, Anastasia ignores her principles as she embraces the spoils of war and takes her rightful place among the upper echelon of Terrenean society.

Will Anastasia continue to support her husband’s quest for complete domination of every world within the cosmos, or will she follow her conscience and fight the evil invading her home?



…Filled with strife, tested loyalties and subtle acts of defiance, Planetary Wars Rise of an Empire by Mary Ann Bernal has a lot to recommend it. In this majestic universe Bernal has created, there are two opposing sides — The Imperial Forces verses the Freedom Fighters. While the Imperial Force has the military advantage, the Freedom Fighters are determined not to be thwarted. This intense and violent struggle between the two sides is a theme that one often finds in Science Fiction novels which gives this book a sense of comforting familiarity. 

Bernal has given us a host of characters in this book, some I liked, some I loathed and others I had mixed feelings about. But, each character, whether it be the protagonist, the antagonist or the supporting characters, brought something rich to this tale.

Talking of characters... For a brilliant and capable woman, Doctor Anastasia Dennison is incredibly naive. She is an incurable romantic who lets love blind her to the truth. This is a time of desperate war, but Anastasia is very free with the information she gives to a man she had just met — a man she has never seen before — which left me slightly bemused. She is either very trusting or a complete and utter fool. At least her friend and colleague, Doctor Sophia Loft, had the sense to question this stranger's motives. But, even then, Anastasia brushes Sophia's concern aside. She refuses to pause and take a moment to consider if the story her beloved told her about himself is credible. Her inability to see Henry for who he really was baffled me because all the signs are there. Yes, Anastasia had never seen a photograph of the dictator of the universe, but still...! Anastasia is completely taken in by the story Jayden Henry Shaw has woven, and she is, for want of a better word, brainwashed. Bernal has not given us a strong and determined character in Anastasia, but instead, she has given us a woman who allows herself to be so blinkered that she no longer sees the suffering around her — her life is perfect, therefore what does it matter if other lives are being crushed? And for that reason, I found myself annoyed with her rather than sympathising with her plight. This, I think, is exactly what Bernal wants her readers to feel.

Jayden Henry Shaw is a compelling antagonist. He is incredibly ambitious and is not the sort of man who takes no for an answer. He is determined to not only rule the universe but to do so on his terms, and if anyone dares to oppose him, he quickly vanquishes them. He can be cruel and yet when it comes to Anastasia, we glimpse a different side to his character. Bernal has made Shaw real in the telling by giving him the ability to love, and despite all the lies, Shaw does love Anastasia. Shaw really closed the deal on this book for me. I thought his depiction was brilliant and demonstrated Bernal's ability at creating very flawed characters.

If you are looking for a gentle introduction into Science Fiction, then check out Planetary Wars Rise of an Empire by Mary Ann Bernal.

I Highly Recommend.

Review by Mary Anne Yarde.
The Coffee Pot Book Club.

 

 


 


Wednesday, December 4, 2019

Affordable gifts for book lovers on your Holiday shopping list!


Scratching your head, wondering what to get your favorite bookworm this holiday season? Well, a book, of course. Not sure of the genre? No problem. From historical fiction to contemporary short stories and science fiction, author Mary Ann Bernal’s books fit the bill. Whether holding a print edition or digital reader or wearing headphones, there is a story that’s perfect for your device. Something for everyone with a click of the mouse. Affordable gifts for people who love to read.


Purchase Links
          Amazon US   Amazon UK   Smashwords   Barnes and Noble   iTunes   Audible
Science Fiction/Fantasy


Planetary Wars: Rise of an Empire 
An innocent romance tainted by deception. A universe enslaved by a tyrant. A crisis of conscience to admit the truth. A choice to be made, but which path to follow?

Historical Fiction


The Briton and the Dane
Alfred the Great has successfully defeated the Danish King Guthrum, but warriors from the Viking homeland threaten to undermine the fragile peace. Wounded in a skirmish, a feared Northman is given succor by a young Saxon woman as King Alfred’s soldiers prepare to defend the kingdom from a new Viking threat. Yet deception and treachery festers in the soul of men who would swear their fealty while plotting to usurp the rightful ruler of the kingdom. One woman would be the catalyst for discovering the truth, but who would prevent the ultimate betrayal?



The Briton and the Dane: Birthright
It has been two years since King Guthrum was defeated by King Alfred of Wessex, but there is one man who would wear the Danish King’s crown. Two former adversaries would unite to quench the latest threat, as the Viking King’s illegitimate son raises an army to usurp his father’s throne. Would the son defeat the father in the battle for sovereignty or would the unlawful son suffer the ultimate betrayal when loyalties are proven in the heat of battle?


The Briton and the Dane: Legacy
Four years have passed since King Alfred thwarted the Viking conquest of Wessex, but the feared Northman continues to batter Britannia’s shores. During this time of unrest, a visionary King institutes a cultural renaissance not seen since the days of Charlemagne. But hatred festers, and the need for vengeance overshadows allegiance as a plot to depose of the rightful ruler is discovered. Would this latest threat be repelled or would the truth destroy the dynastic heritage?


The Briton and the Dane: The Complete Trilogy
Three novels in one collection .  
Intrigue, treachery, betrayal in ninth-century Britain.


The Briton and the Dane: Concordia
In Anglo-Saxon Britain, amidst the Viking threat, a woman comes of age. Captured by Saracen pirates and taken to Muslim Hispania, enslavement or death is her fate. Fearing for her life,
she plans her escape, but will she succeed?


The Briton and the Dane: Timeline
Obsessed with a haunting portrait of a Saxon nobleman, an archeologist searches for the truth. Alone in the castle ruins during a fierce storm, Gwyneth is swept into eleventh century England. Amidst the political unrest, she is enmeshed in the intrigue as foreign contenders vie for the throne. Will she be caught up in a conspiracy for which there is no escape?

Contemporary Short Stories
Genres
Crime, Fantasy,  Historical, Horror, Mystery, Occult,  
Romance, Spies & Espionage, Thriller & Suspense


Scribbler Tales Presents: Escape from Berlin
Featuring Betrayal, Deadly Secrets, Murder in the First, The Ritual

Escape from Berlin 
Mark Dresdner’s cover is blown.  Fleeing East Germany, he finds the border crossing closed.  With the enemy closing in, his fate is sealed, or is it?

Betrayal
Aelia shares a confidence with her husband, putting her life at risk.  Her trust is misplaced, and she faces execution in the arena. Will Gallus have a change of heart before it’s too late?

Deadly Secrets
Lysandra finds a new life in America by marrying an unsuspecting college professor, unless her past catches up with her at the altar.

Murder in the First
Bethel takes matters into her own hands, seeking vengeance on the man who ruined her life.  But something goes seriously wrong and the predator becomes the prey.

The Ritual
Pagan worshippers embrace All Hallows’ Eve, initiating new members with a blood covenant.  Fearing for her soul, Devona runs away, but will she survive the raging tempest?


Scribbler Tales
Volumes One - Five

Scribbler Tales Volume One

Desperate Measures: What happens when Audrey learns of Paul’s duplicity? Cloning experiments have gone awry.

 Forbidden Lore: Arianna and Ethan are locked inside a haunted cemetery. Will they survive the night?

Forever Lost: Rina and Adrian are star-crossed lovers. Will love prevail?

Sail with Me:  Aaron reflects upon his childhood. Confessions of a military brat.

The Hourglass:  A covenant with the Devil. How far will Flair go to keep Brice alive?

 Scribbler Tales Volume Two

Broken Promises: Madeline’s love for Nathan clouds her judgment as the Wall Street titan denies any wrongdoing.

Deception: Vigilante vengeance. The criminal justice system fails when the guilty walk free.
  
Endgame: It was a dream government job until Sandy learns the truth. Covert operations shrouded in secrecy.

 Malice: Proving innocence. Andrew’s life falls apart when he is falsely accused of rape.
  
The Portrait: Demonic possession. All Geoffrey wants is a family, but Holliday and Olivia have other plans.
  
Scribbler Tales Volume Three

Hidden Lies: When classified schematics are stolen, evidence points to an inside job. Industrial secrets compromised.

Nightmare:  Phantom Legacy. Melanie wants to sell her ancestral home, but the specter of her dreams has other plans

Payback: A psychopathic killer is on the loose. Detective Newport must stop an assassin
targeting prosecuting attorneys.

The Night Stalker:  Deadly Obsession. Pamela must prove her suspicions before the police can protect her

Turning Point: Personal vendetta. Is a decorated firefighter an arsonist? A Fire Marshall wrestles with the truth.

Scribbler Tales Volume Four

Abducted:  Threatened with death. When Katrina Cooper is kidnapped, can the money be raised in time?

Cunning: Lethal folklore. Charlotte stumbles upon the truth behind Transylvanian vampires.

Enamored: Pursuing love. Aging Lady Margaret is besotted with a much younger man.

Reckless: Eluding capture. Peter’s latest victim survives, informing the authorities.

Safeguard: Self-defense or Murder? Sarah awakens covered in blood.

Scribbler Tales Volume Five

Bloodlust: Lilly considers a Satanic covenant on All Hallows’ Eve as she seeks immortality.

Illusion:  Felicity stumbles upon tomb robbers in the Valley of the Queens. Dream vacation has gone awry.

Manhunt: Perilous flight. Tami and Mick plan one final heist, but will it lead to their downfall?

Pandemic: Facing extinction. Dr. Lancaster must find a cure for a mutated virus strain.

Revenge:  Criminal behavior. Can Angela rid herself of her abusive husband? 


Thank you for visiting.
Happy Holidays


Purchase at:
Mary Ann Bernal

Whispering Legends Press

Monday, September 2, 2019

Pam Lecky: A Conversation with Author Mary Ann Bernal

 

A Conversation with Author Mary Ann Bernal

Today in the Library we have Mary Ann Bernal who has dropped in to say hello and to share some insights into her life as an author.
You are very welcome, Mary Ann, please introduce yourself:
Thanks for inviting me, Pam. In addition to being an incurable romantic Anglophile history buff, I am also a Science Fiction nerd, dreaming of exploring strange new worlds the minute Captain Kirk commanded the Enterprise. Yes, I am an original Trekkie.
My grandchildren also keep me on my toes, but I am one of their staunchest supporters in all of their extracurricular activities, from sitting in the bleachers for sporting events to orchestra seating for dance competitions.
I am a passionate supporter of the U.S. military, having been involved with letter-writing campaigns and other military support programs since Operation Desert Storm. All of my novels and short story collections are dedicated to fallen military heroes who gave their lives defending our freedom.
Which genre do you write in and what draws you to it?
Since I had always wanted to write a story about a Viking prince, my genre of choice was historical fiction. After having written five novels in The Briton and the Dane series, I broadened my fan base to include contemporary short stories in the Scribbler Tales collection, and more recently, I have added a Space Opera, Planetary Wars: Rise of an Empire, to the mix.

My writing style varies because my interests are wide-ranging. I love history but I also love science fiction, so why not pen what I enjoy? It is always good to leave one’s comfort zone to conquer new challenges. Diversity is a good thing and one should not be limited in scope. My pendulum swings from the Ninth Century to futuristic worlds.
Are you an avid reader? Do you prefer books in your own genre or are you happy to explore others?
Yes. I love to read, but I do not limit myself to one specific category. It is better to broaden one’s perspective then remain stagnant in one area. To grow, one must experience new things. What better way to discover different mindsets then to read different genres? Of course, there will always be favorites, and in many instances, it will be hard to choose the top five.
What part of the writing process do you find most difficult? How do you overcome it?
Ah, writer’s block comes to mind. Is it such a thing? Perhaps, perhaps not. But I am sure most of us have stared at a blank computer screen while our minds wander. Yes, there is the outline. Yes, you know the story, yet you’re stuck.
My solution was to not call it a day after having finished a chapter or a section within a chapter. I will write a few lines for the next section or chapter before leaving the office. The next day when I pull up the file, there are sentences to either change or expand upon. Problem solved.
What was the best piece of writing advice you received when starting out?
Write about what you love because you enjoy it, not because you have to. Some authors will write for the current trend, such as vampire stories. If you don’t love your work, neither will your readers. It does not matter if you’re out of sync. Your work will be discovered. Never settle.
If a movie was made of one of your books, who would you like to play the lead roles?
The Briton and the Dane trilogy selected cast:
Lord Richard – Jeremy Irons; David – James Franco; Stephen – Clive Owen; Erik – Chris Egan; Rollo – Ioan Gruffudd
If truth be told, I have cast the entire lead roles on a spreadsheet since I always picture my characters in my mind’s eye whilst I write.
If you could live the life of a historical figure for one day, who would you choose and what would you get up to?
Eleanor of Aquitaine – she was one feisty wealthy and powerful woman in the Twelfth Century. She was married to Louis VII of France and King Henry II of England. While married to Louis, Eleanor participated in the Second Crusade, leading her Aquitainian soldiers, not of noble birth. It was said she was dressed as an Amazon (warrior women in Greek Mythology) and that point, I would love to prove. What was Eleanor wearing as she and her ladies-in-waiting headed towards the Holy Land? How many men were shamed by her courage?
You have been chosen as a member of the crew on the first one-way flight to Mars – you are allowed to bring 5 books with you. What would they be?
Ivanhoe by Sir Walter Scott, The Time Machine by H. G. Wells, To Have and To Hold by Mary Johnston, The Andromeda Strain by Michael Creighton, and Frenchman’s Creek by Daphne du Maurier. Can I throw in my Star Wars, Star Trek, Stargate SG-1 and Stargate Atlantis DVD collections? Tough choices.
Please tell us about your latest published work. 
My next project, in development, is a historical fiction novel set during the First Crusade.
Published works:
The Briton and the Dane collection is an action and adventure drama set in dark ages England when the Vikings terrorized the world. The Briton and the Dane: Timeline is a historical fiction fantasy time travel love story.
Planetary Wars Rise of an Empire is a science fiction/fantasy romantic adventure Space Opera.
Scribbler Tales is a compilation of short stories whose genres include the paranormal, action and adventure, mystery and thrillers, fantasy, romance, drama, and suspense. A single author contemporary fiction anthology.
If you would like to know more about Mary Ann and her work, please check our her links below: