Jupiter's Ghost - by David Gwinn (Paperback)

About the Book

2025 Storytrade Award Winner for Best Science Fiction
When alien pilot Jóre joins a nebula whaling crew aboard a cursed starship, he must survive sabotage, monsters, and a mythic beast that's already destroyed one vessel--and isn't done yet.

Book Synopsis

In the Orion Nebula, death is written in the stars.
Jóre, an alien outcast, joins the nebula whaling ship Jupiter's Ghost--a vessel haunted by loss and hunted by something far worse. Whispers speak of the Great Blue, a monstrous whale that shatters steel and devours entire ships. In a crew bound by desperation and old grudges, trust is scarce and survival is a thin hope.
As Jupiter's Ghost sails deeper into Orion Nebula, the line between hunter and hunted fades, and Jóre must decide how much of himself he's willing to sacrifice for glory--and for revenge.
Not all who sail into the nebula will return.
Some dreams are meant to be swallowed whole.

Review Quotes

"David Gwinn offers a captivating tale that features the best elements of great science fiction-- compelling characters, riveting action and a central creature that drives the emotional narrative." -- Mark Davis, Talk Show Host, Salem Media Group & Author "Lone Star America", "Upside Down"

"Jupiter's Ghost is not only a thrilling intergalactic chase for revenge in the spirit of Moby Dick it also brings the reader to a deeper appreciation of friendship while taking on the world." -- Greg Laird, Author "One Life for Another"

I was skeptical when I first started reading David Gwinn's "Jupiter's Ghost." It forces you to ask so many questions, such as: Can a universe have nebula whales, especially a blue one so massive that it hunts and destroys spaceships? A disgraced and overconfident Fralie pilot who faces skeptical humans and about everyone else in the universe? A muscular, tattooed and courageous whale-hunting Braxen named Zaxxen who's friendly, spiritual and can get frightened like passengers on a turbulent flight?
In the end, that's what makes Gwinn's book so good, especially for those who love science fiction. Gwinn makes the Jupiter Ghost crew's quest believable and engaging, so much that I googled nebula whales to make sure they didn't exist. His protagonist Jore reminds you of the talented but disliked underdog who can redeem himself through sheer courage and determination. And then there's the likeable Braxen named Zaxxen who has that Hulk-like charm but without all the anger and who says "my friend" so many times that you question whether his demeanor is a ruse.
Gwinn's book is a fun read from beginning to end. It takes you on a visual journey to the most dangerous parts of the universe because of a captain's thirst for vengeance and fame. It's a space-age version of "Moby Dick" but with men, women, a Fralie and, of course, the Braxen named Zaxxen.
And I do highly recommend reading it, my friend. - Joe Hight, journalist, author and owner, Best of Books

About the Author

Award-winning author and screenwriter David Gwinn grew up in rural Ohio, where his sense of adventure and imagination were sparked. His country boy upbringing and military experience fuel the stories he writes, from high-stakes thrillers to intergalactic warfare, crafting worlds where one feels like it is man against nature.
With over 15 years of experience spanning action, sci-fi, fantasy, and thriller genres, David has built a reputation for powerful storytelling and sharp dialogue. His works include major studio features to indie gems.
David holds a Master Screenwriting Certificate and a Professional Screenwriting Certificate, as well as an MBA from the University of Texas and a B.S. in Manufacturing Engineering Technology from the University of Dayton.
When he's not building new worlds or punching up scripts, he's probably somewhere with a notebook in hand, chasing the next wild idea with the loving support of his family.