Essence: Septima by Nick Braker is the first book in a series about alien contact and abduction. While this book’s trappings are science fiction, it does manage to push into the realm of the fantastical.

The story revolves around a young man who is nearly paralyzed by his fears. During an abduction, he is recognized as being someone else, which inexplicably begins his metamorphosis. Readers will witness an individual once afraid of going outside become a general who will lead a people to freedom.

The characters are nuanced and complex, with a depth that is difficult to fathom at first. The reader quickly becomes aware that there is more than meets the eye. The author appears to use the main character’s many conquests (and failures) as a mechanism to bring details to life.

Nick writes an action-packed story that will allow the reader to navigate through the murky waters of his world. As the character gains more insight on his own state of change, the reader will gain awareness on what is at stake.

Since this book is part of a series, readers may feel like much is left unresolved. They are right. Fortunately, the trilogy is complete, and Essence: Alta is just a click away!