Picture an American storyteller who swapped circuit boards for cosmic adventures—meet M.F. Lerma! A former engineer turned science fiction maestro, Lerma has carved a niche with his thrilling Slip Runner series, co-authored with J.N. Chaney. His tales of redemption, snarky AIs, and interstellar misfits have hooked readers, blending technical savvy with heart-pounding narratives.
The Making of M.F. Lerma
Little is known about M.F. Lerma’s early life, but his journey from the corporate grind to sci-fi stardom is a tale of reinvention. A self-described 'recovering engineer,' Lerma spent years navigating the commercial world before trading spreadsheets for starships. His love for coffee, whisky, and memes fueled late-night writing sessions, while his engineering background lent authenticity to the tech-heavy universes he crafts. Joining the Renegade Readers Facebook group, Lerma found a community to share his passion, setting the stage for his literary leap.
M.F. Lerma’s Unforgettable Stories
Lerma’s flagship work, the Slip Runner series, is a nine-book saga that kicks off with Slip Runner (2022). Co-authored with J.N. Chaney, it follows Cole Riker, an ex-smuggler turned salvage contractor, navigating a galaxy littered with alien tech and moral dilemmas. The series, set in the Renegade Star Universe, blends space opera with western-style shootouts, earning praise for its witty banter and intricate world-building. Dark Peace (2022), the second installment, sees Cole stranded in an unmapped galaxy, uncovering secrets of a lost Earth ship. Deracine Sun (2023) deepens the stakes with galactic revelations, while Cosmic Horizon (2024) wraps the series with a battle against humanity’s greatest threat, Noth. Lerma’s style shines through in his knack for flawed heroes, snappy dialogue, and themes of redemption, making each book a page-turner.
His collaboration with Chaney also extends to the Fifth Column series, a gritty sci-fi venture exploring war and betrayal. Lerma’s engineering roots shine in his detailed tech descriptions, grounding fantastical plots in plausible mechanics. Readers love the humor—especially Cole’s sparring with his AI, Poe—and the way Lerma balances action with emotional depth.
Why M.F. Lerma Matters
M.F. Lerma’s impact lies in his ability to make sci-fi feel human. His stories resonate with readers who crave adventure but also connect with characters facing real struggles—guilt, loyalty, and the search for purpose. The Slip Runner series has garnered a 4.42 average rating on Goodreads, with fans praising its blend of humor and heart. Lerma’s active presence in the Renegade Readers group has fostered a tight-knit fanbase, inspiring aspiring writers to take risks. By turning his engineering expertise into a storytelling asset, he’s shown how diverse backgrounds can enrich genre fiction, leaving a mark on modern sci-fi.
- Key Works: Slip Runner, Dark Peace, Deracine Sun, Cosmic Horizon
- Collaborator: J.N. Chaney
- Community: Active in Renegade Readers Facebook group
Ready for a galactic ride? Snag Slip Runner and dive into M.F. Lerma’s thrilling sci-fi universe!