STARMEN: A Novel by Francis Hamit
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Recent Reviews of
STARMEN
A novel by Francis Hamit
Excerpt From Kirkus Reviews:
In Hamit’s historical adventure novel, detectives, mythology, and magic mingle in the post-Civil War West. In 1875 El Paso, Texas, Pinkerton detective Harold McLean discusses the arrival of a hot air balloon with young Jim Frazer. An ethnographer, Frazer only took the job of advance man for the balloon crew as a way to get to Texas and study the Apache, hoping to learn more about their mythology and publish his findings.
McLean introduces him to a young man who not only helps him connect to the tribe of warriors but seems to have some mystical abilities himself, piquing Frazer’s interest. While Frazer is busy learning what it means to be Apache, and how their myths of the Starmen (“We fight on, knowing the White Man will prevail through sheer weight of numbers, unless the Starmen return to help us”) may connect to the crew of the hot air balloon, McLean investigates the crew, believing their story about being scientists to be suspicious.
McLean and his fellow Pinkertons find themselves embroiled in a web of political intrigue—and maybe even something out of this world. In this adventure story, the author blends Native American myths, political intrigue, and someRmagical elements. The novel is lengthy, and filled to the brim with details; Hamit clearly has passion for his work, and the research he used to tell as accurate a tale as possible is impressive.
Readers who love historical fiction set in the Wild West will find plenty here to entertain them. A richly detailed historical adventure novel in which a detective agency gets pulled into political machinations.
From The Self Publishing Review: *****
A richly imagined tale of cowboys, aliens, and an ethnographic clash of cultures, Starmen by Francis Hamit is a genre-bending adventure with enough historical touchstones to brilliantly blur the line between fact and fiction. In this slightly alternate universe, legendary anthropologist George James Frazer travels to El Paso, Texas in 1875 as a young man, acting as the ‘advance man’ for an aeronautical angel from Liverpool with a dirigible at her command. His academic fascination with native cultures, myths, and traditions soon leads him into the secretive world of the local Apaches, as well as the investigative purview of the Pinkerton Detective Agency, who suspect he may be a British spy. The whimsical plot spirals out wildly from there, from natural resource treasure hunts and high-stakes border conflicts to vision quests and Freemason conspiracies, yet the disparate threads of this narrative are loomed by a master craftsman.
The book is impressively edited and rings with authenticity in terms of time period, place, and character background. Whether it is 19th-century dialogic idioms or nuanced histories of indigenous ceremonies, the novel effortlessly pulls readers into its semi-fictionalized grip.
Boasting an eccentric cast of three-dimensional characters – scientists, savages, courtesans, lawmen, and law-breakers – this is a mystery, a romance, a spaghetti western, and a fantastical slice of magic realism all rolled into one. The breadth of the story may seem overwhelming, but this is top-shelf historical fiction that defies classification or comparison, for an impressive and original read.
From Author Glen Olsen: *****
Starmen is a clever blend of historical fiction, science fiction, and fantasy, with
references to real events and figures. The novel opens in 1875, in the dusty town of El Paso, and from the very beginning I felt like I was really there, walking the streets with the characters. Hamit incorporates elements of Native American mythology, folklore, and cosmology in this novel, creating a rich and diverse world that challenges the conventional Western genre. The characters are well-developed and engaging, each with their own motivations, secrets, and flaws. The plot is fast-paced and full of twists and turns, that kept me turning the pages until the very end.
Starmen also explores themes such as identity, culture, colonialism, and the nature of reality, raising interesting questions and dilemmas for the characters and the reader. This is a novel that defies expectations and genres, offering a unique and thrilling experience for fans of adventure, history, and science.
From Literary Titan: *****
Set in 1875, Starmen, by Francis Hamit takes readers to the El Paso branch of the Pinkerton Detective Agency, where a complex and unusual case unfolds. Anthropologist George Frazer seeks the agency's assistance to connect with the local Apache community for a matter that has piqued his personal interest. Concurrently, the appearance of a mysterious hot air balloon over the town marks the beginning of a series of extraordinary events. The narrative weaves through the Pinkertons' investigation of a missing Chicago heir and Frazer's astonishing discovery about the Apache tribe, gradually intertwining concepts of string theory and quantum mechanics, suggesting a universe far more complex than its characters comprehend.
Starmen is a creative fusion of Western motifs, magical realism, and elements that might seem anachronistic for the late 19th century. Its ambitious nature is evident in its length and depth, making it more suited for readers looking for an immersive, rather than a quick, reading experience. Readers will note echoes of the HBO series Westworld and elements reminiscent of Back to the Future Part III within its pages. The story boasts a rich tapestry of characters, offering a multitude of plot threads that create a vibrant and complex narrative. This intricacy reflects the engaging journeys of the protagonists as they navigate their adventures.
Hamit thoughtfully provides resolutions to the many twists and turns, aiming to satisfy the curiosity and imagination of readers through diverse and creative storylines. Hamit's narrative is a tapestry of gunslinging, romance, extraterrestrial life, witchcraft, and parallel universes. Such a rich mix of themes presents a formidable challenge in achieving a concise conclusion, but the author is more than successful.
Starmen is a richly layered novel that masterfully blends historical facts with fantasy, creating an immersive and captivating reading experience.
Francis Hamit's writing style is descriptive and engaging, and the novel's plot is both intricate and intriguing. The character development is a standout feature, adding depth and complexity to the story. This novel is a commendable work for readers who enjoy a blend of history, mystery, and fantasy.
Author Christopher Gerrib's review
It was amazing.
To borrow a concept from Jeff Foxworthy, you might have written a weird tale if the 3rd Bengal Lancers show up in the air over Texas in 1875. Since they do make such an appearance, I guess Francis Hamit's novel Starmen is a wei tale. Having said that, I found it was also a very good read. The book opens with the arrival of a "balloon" (technically a dirigible but not called such in the story) in the skies over El Paso Texas in 1875. The detectives at the newly-established Pinkerton's office in town decide to investigate and their interest is piqued when they discover that one of the backers of the enterprise is the British Ethnographic Society - an organization commonly used as a cover by the British Secret Service. What follows is an interesting tale. Hamit throws in everything including the kitchen sink. We get some romance, old-fashioned Western gunslinging, various flavors of witchcraft, alternate worlds, and yes some aliens. A few historical figures, notably a young John Pershing, are in the story, although in the introduction Hamit makes clear that he's writing alternate history, not straight historical fiction. Hamit has written several historical fiction novels concerning spies (male and female, Confederate and Union) set during the Civil War, and some of those escapades are discussed by characters in the book. Fortunately, one does not need to have read any of those (I haven't) to keep up with this story.
In short, the book might be hard to characterize but it's also hard to put down.
Demetria Head Review from the BookBub and A Look Inside book blogs
“STARMEN" by Francis Hamit is a sprawling epic that seamlessly blends elements of magical realism, historical fiction, and sci-fi fantasy to create a mesmerizing tale that will captivate readers from start to finish. Set against the backdrop of the American Southwest in 1875, the novel introduces us to a cast of richly drawn characters whose lives become intertwined in a web of intrigue, adventure, and supernatural mystery.
At the heart of the story is George James Frazer, a budding anthropologist working with the Pinkerton National Detective Agency on behalf of the British Enthnographic Survey, whose quest to contact a local Apache tribe leads him on a journey beyond the realms of ordinary reality. When a mysterious hot air balloon appears over the town of El Paso, also owned by the British Ethnographic Survey, Frazer finds himself drawn into a world of ancient magic and hidden truths.
The characters in "STARMEN" are truly the heart and soul of the novel, each one fleshed out with depth and nuance that makes them feel like living, breathing individuals. From the determined and resourceful Frazer to the enigmatic Apache witches and the ruthless Pinkerton agents, every character brings their own unique perspective to the narrative, driving the plot forward with their conflicting desires and motivations.
Plot development in "STARMEN" is masterfully executed, with Hamit weaving together multiple storylines that intertwine and intersect in surprising and unexpected ways. From the quest to find a missing heir to the discovery of a town inhabited by extraordinary gunfighters, each twist and turn of the plot unfolds with breathtaking intensity, keeping readers on the edge of their seats until the very last page.
What truly sets "STARMEN" apart is its seamless blend of genres, incorporating elements of historical fiction, magical realism, and hard sci-fi into a cohesive and compelling narrative. From the romantic entanglements to the political intrigue and the mind-bending concepts of quantum mechanics and string theory, the novel offers something for every reader, appealing to fans of both traditional historical fiction and speculative fiction alike.
Overall, "STARMEN" is a tour de force of storytelling that will transport readers to a world of adventure, mystery, and wonder. With its unforgettable characters, intricate plot, and bold exploration of complex themes, it is a must-read for anyone seeking an immersive and thought-provoking literary experience.
Three Reviews from Reader’s Favorite:
Review #1: Review by Christian Sia
Review Rating: 5 Stars
STARMEN by Francis Hamit is an ambitious and thrilling novel that throws caution to the wind in terms of genre-bending. The Pinkerton National Detective Agency's office welcomes the arrival of a young English anthropologist, George James Frazer, seeking to establish contact with the local Apache tribe. But his quest is suddenly disrupted by a phenomenon that defies explanation: a massive hot air balloon descends from the skies, carrying a troupe of circus performers. As Frazer becomes embroiled in the mystery, he hurtles into a world of political intrigue. Who is behind the balloon? The Apache tribe holds secrets threatening to upend his understanding of the world, while the balloon's occupants seem to possess otherworldly abilities. As the stakes escalate, Frazer must navigate a web of intrigue that weaves historical fact and fiction, detective work, and scientific theory together. But can he unravel the mystery?
With its unique blend of historical and speculative elements, Starmen is a story that will intrigue readers. Francis Hamit writes in exquisite prose and imbues the narrative with compelling imagery and engaging dialogues. The descriptions are terrific and give readers a strong sense of place. The scenes are focused, and the points of view are well-crafted, providing clarity to the plot and the scenes. George James Frazer is a likable protagonist on an adventure that takes him across the American Southwest, from the dusty streets of El Paso to the mystical realms of Apache mythology, as he unravels the threads of a mystery that threatens to tear apart the very fabric of reality. This suspenseful tale has so much to offer, from the excellent writing to the stunning plot points, from the deft characterization to the complex setting.
Review #2: Review by Romuald Dzemo
Review Rating: 5 Stars -
Reviewed by Romuald Dzemo for Readers’ Favorite
STARMEN by Francis Hamit is an intelligently crafted novel that fits into multiple genres. It blends historical fiction, magical realism, and science fiction elements to create a captivating tale that will enthrall readers. Set in the American Southwest in 1875, the story follows George James Frazer, a budding anthropologist, as he becomes entangled in a web of intrigue and supernatural mystery. He seeks help from the Pinkerton National Detective Agency to contact a local Apache tribe. When a balloon carrying a troupe of circus performers appears in the skies over El Paso, the detectives at the Pinkerton office decide to investigate. The discovery that the mystery of the balloon could be backed by the British Ethnographic Society—an organization commonly used as a cover by the British Secret Service —creates intrigue. Thus begins a tale filled with intrigue and adventure.
Hamit's writing immediately arrested my attention. This author brings his characters to life with depth, exploring their motivations and humanity with skill. Frazer is an exceptionally well-developed protagonist, driven by his determination to uncover the truth behind the strange occurrences in El Paso. The supporting cast is equally impressive, with each character adding a unique perspective to the narrative. The plot is expertly woven, with multiple storylines intersecting and colliding unexpectedly. Hamit's ability to balance action and political intrigue stands out. The narrative features a sophisticated setting, and the author weaves compelling imagery into the tale.
STARMEN by Francis Hamit is cleverly plotted, deft, and balanced, a story that is as suspenseful as it is action-packed.
Review #3: Review by K.C. Finn
Review Rating: 5 Stars
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers’ Favorite
STARMEN is a work of fiction in the historical, adventure, and science fiction genres. It is best suited to adult readers as it has some sexual references and scenes of violence. Penned by author Francis Hamit, this multi-genre novel begins with a young English anthropologist, George James Frazer, seeking assistance from the Pinkerton National Detective Agency to contact a local Apache tribe. The plot takes a fantastical turn when a massive hot air balloon carrying a troupe of circus performers appears overhead. Blending Apache folklore and beliefs with modern science, quantum mechanics, and string theory, a rich tapestry of intrigue and adventure unfolds as the mystery deepens.
Author Francis Hamit has crafted a captivating and immersive novel that is truly unique for its many different influences and thematic choices. The historical setting, opening the novel in 1875 El Paso, provided a fascinating backdrop with plenty of atmospheric charm. The settings and vistas each brought with them a keen sense of shifting moods to match the emotion of the discoveries at play. There’s a real sense of whimsy and fantasy in Hamit’s narrative that shows the author’s confidence in storytelling, and this extends to the strange and wonderful cast of characters that populate his story world. Hamit's incorporation of Apache mythology alongside scientific concepts is handled with great capability and sensitivity, offering an intriguing and thought-provoking clash of ideas. The particular genre elements of detective work, political thriller, and romantic writing rise to the fore as the novel progresses, offering a rich and multi-layered adventure with a lot to enjoy. Overall, Starmen is a complex and enchanting story that I would certainly recommend for fans of detailed science fiction adventures with plenty of history and mystery involved.
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