Step into the captivating universe of the Paradisi Chronicles, where humanity’s bold leap to the stars unfolds in a thrilling, collaborative science fiction saga! This open-source series invites readers to explore a richly imagined future, blending adventure, survival, and first contact with alien cultures. With multiple authors weaving diverse tales, the Paradisi Chronicles offers an ever-evolving narrative that’s as dynamic as the cosmos itself.
In the late 21st century, Earth faces collapse, prompting ten powerful families to spearhead a daring exodus to New Eden, a distant planet in the Paradisi System. What they find is a world already inhabited by the Ddaerans—human-like beings with extraordinary abilities—sparking stories of tension, discovery, and hope.
How Paradisi Chronicles Began
Inspired by a challenge from indie author Hugh Howey in 2014 to rethink traditional publishing, a group of visionary writers, including Cheri Lasota and M. Louisa Locke, launched the Paradisi Chronicles in 2015. They crafted an open-source universe where any author could contribute, fostering a collaborative storytelling model. This innovative approach allowed the series to grow organically, with each story adding new layers to the shared world of New Eden, making it a unique experiment in sci-fi literature.
The Heart of Paradisi Chronicles
The series boasts a constellation of stories, each shining with its own perspective. Between Mountain and Sea by M. Louisa Locke follows Mei Lin Yu, a descendant of the Founding Families, as she uncovers her family’s secrets and bonds with the Ddaerans in a coming-of-age tale. Saber and Science by Andy R. Bunch delivers a gritty sci-fi detective story, where Constable James Paladini investigates a deadly conspiracy on a remote mining planet. Paradisi Exodus by Cheri Lasota kicks off with the early years of humanity’s escape from Earth, blending suspense and survival. Chronicle Worlds: Paradisi, an anthology edited by Samuel Peralta, gathers twelve short stories, showcasing the universe’s diversity through adventurers and scientists.
Themes of colonization, cultural clashes, and human resilience pulse through the series, set against the vivid backdrop of New Eden’s alien landscapes. The open-source nature encourages a tapestry of styles—some stories are quiet and introspective, others action-packed—yet all explore humanity’s quest to adapt and thrive. Ethical dilemmas, like the treatment of the Ddaerans, add depth, inviting readers to ponder coexistence and identity.
Why Paradisi Chronicles Resonates
The Paradisi Chronicles stands out for its bold collaborative spirit, drawing fans of expansive sci-fi worlds like Star Trek or Dune. Its open-source model has cultivated a niche but passionate readership, eager to discover new voices and stories. By tackling timely themes like environmental collapse and cultural integration, the series feels both futuristic and grounded, resonating with readers who crave thoughtful sci-fi. Its ongoing evolution ensures there’s always a fresh adventure waiting.
- First Book Published: 2015
- Key Authors: M. Louisa Locke, Cheri Lasota, Andy R. Bunch, Samuel Peralta
- Setting: New Eden, Paradisi System
Ready to blast off? Grab Between Mountain and Sea and dive into the Paradisi Chronicles’ thrilling sci-fi universe!