Step into The Color of the Rift by Paul R. Fioroni, a bold novel that mixes history, science fiction, and fantasy into a story you can’t put down. This tale drops you into a universe torn apart by the Rift, a living gateway that stirs chaos and wonder.
Two young boys, James and Benjamin, must tap into their newfound powers, confront terrifying enemies, and work together to save their worlds from collapse. Packed with magic, action, and lessons about unity, this book is perfect for anyone who loves a great adventure.
A Universe Broken by the Rift
The story begins with the Rift, a radiant portal carved into reality in 1347 by priests using the fading light of a star. This tear causes strange events-objects twist into eerie shapes, skies glow with unnatural hues, and whispers carry glimpses of other times.
The Rift binds two worlds: one scarred by racial conflicts, and another where Black leaders hold power. Magical talismans, such as ancient blades and glowing relics, evoke a sense of mystery and wonder. As a force that feels and speaks through visions, the Rift shapes a fantastical setting where every moment feels alive with possibility.
Enemies Shaped by Anger and Loss
The novel’s villains, General Marcus Jackson and Captain Joseph Whitemore, are complex figures whose pain fuels their dark paths. Marcus, a war hero marked by his mother’s violent death, aims to fix history’s wrongs with a machine that demands cruel sacrifices, even taking his sister’s adopted daughter, Marcella, as leverage.
His moments of doubt make him relatable, but his harsh actions show his fall. Joseph, a naval officer, chases vengeance for his brother’s death, using deadly tools to break the Rift and holding fast to his biases. Their struggles and fierce motives create enemies who are both frightening and human, highlighting the cost of unchecked hatred.
Heroes, Monsters, and a Fight for Unity
James and Benjamin, the young heroes, gain incredible abilities from the Rift, setting them up to face the ultimate threat: the Enlil, a monstrous fusion of Marcus and Joseph. In a strange arena within the Rift, the villains’ bodies merge through dark, coiling strands, forming a giant with mixed features and eyes of brown and blue.
The Enlil hurls deadly orbs that wipe out anything they touch, embodying the chaos of their endless feud. Marcus’s brief act of care, saving his nephew from harm, shows the humanity trapped within. James commands wind, water, and lightning, using gusts to protect and bolts to strike, his powers tied to a glowing birthmark on his neck. Benjamin controls earth, fire, and stone, raising shields and throwing fiery blades, aided by a crystal eye that sees beyond the normal and has extraordinary power.
In a hidden temple on the eerie waters of Mirror Lake, their trials-facing guilt and torn loyalties-forge their powers into the Hekarai, a bright force of gold and violet light. Marked by symbols on their hands, the Hekarai heal broken places and stand for their bond, offering hope against the Enlil’s destruction.
The Color of the Rift by Paul R. Fioroni is a book you must read. Its mix of fantasy, history, and ideas about bringing people together makes it a unique blend. The villains are complex, illustrating how pain can twist even the best intentions.
The heroes are easy to cheer for, thanks to their growing powers and strong friendship. The magical world feels fresh and exciting, from the Rift’s iridescent effects to the Hekarai’s glowing hope. Whether you enjoy intense battles, mystical settings, or stories about overcoming division, this novel has it all. The clash between the Hekarai and the Enlil delivers action and heart, illustrating how unity can triumph over hate.
About the Author
Paul R. Fioroni is a writer, former professional athlete, and business innovator. Originally from Toronto, he played professional hockey from 1997 to 2006 and later coached the club hockey program at Texas Tech University. He founded the 24 Foundation in 2003 and earned two CHL Man of the Year awards for his work with children and local families and programs. Fioroni wrote his first story at the age of 13 and published poetry at 24. His novella, The Color of the Rift, reflects his passion for fantasy and interest in storytelling. He now works in medical sales, holds a patent in air technology, and is developing plans to adapt his book for film.
Website: https://paulfioroni.com/
