J. Gordon Manias – Fiction and Fantasy Author

Apocalypsis: Book 1 of the Maledictus Saga

Apocalypsis book cover - Fantasy novel by J Gordon Manias, Book 1 Maledictus Saga

In Book I of the Maledictus saga we meet the passengers and crew of the ocean going vessel, Skafos, who go about their lives oblivious to secrets both dark and marvelous. George and Ruth Callahan are celebrating their 50th anniversary when an envelope is delivered to their cabin. Its contents begin a frantic search for answers as the family wrestles with the implications of the message inside. What follows is a journey of discovery about who they really are and the truth about their ship.

About the Novel

Apocalypsis is not just a novel; it’s a deeply immersive experience… a story that resonates on multiple levels: emotionally, spiritually, and psychologically. The characters are richly drawn and undergo transformations that feel earned and profound. The setting—claustrophobic yet expansive in its metaphysical reach—serves as both crucible and mirror for the inner lives of (the) cast.

What makes Apocalypsis stand out is its refusal to settle for genre conventions. It blends speculative fiction with literary depth, spiritual inquiry, and emotional realism. Readers who crave stories that challenge them to think, feel, and reflect will find themselves deeply moved. It’s ideal for fans of Frank E. Peretti, Ted Dekker, Lois Lowry and C. S. Lewis—those who appreciate speculative fiction that doesn’t just entertain but enlightens.

Reader Reviews for Apocalypsis

“… Apocalypsis by J. Gordon Manias is wonderfully written and takes
the reader on a gripping journey filled with unexpected directions
and moral dilemmas. Manias utilized suspense to great effect,
which made me look forward to the events in subsequent chapters.
I loved the vivid descriptions of events and places, which helped
create a mental picture of what was happening. The thought
provoking work is also highly motivating and shows the importance
of not giving up amidst adversity, and also the importance of
questioning everything, even what the majority of people regard as
the truth. The characters were well-developed, and the seamless
flow of the plot ensured no room for confusion. This is an excellent
story, and I look forward to reading the next book by Gordon
Manias.” – Frank Mutuma, Reader’s Favorite reviewer

“This is so stinking fun! I had a blast gradually getting to see what this plot wanted to reveal to us… the main plot and subplots are great… these characters (have) such realistic bonds with each other. It really felt like I was looking at a family I’ve known my whole life. Like they could be my neighbors, heck they could have been my family.” – Maddy D, professional editor

“Apocalypsis is an engaging, thoughtful, and suspenseful read. The boat setting offers a unique and limited area to explore, while still making it exciting and offering dramatic action moments that leave you wondering what may happen next. The characters are well-developed and emotionally complex… Overall, the 1st book of the Maledictus Saga is an enjoyable read with complex world-building that makes the story and its characters fascinating.” – S. J. Crow, writer/beta reader

See the review from Sassy Reviews at her blog: https://sassyreviews.data.blog/2024/06/17/apocalypsis/ or on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/p/C8UIIg2OKRF/

See the review from Readers Choice at the blog: https://passionduniya.wordpress.com/2024/07/02/apocalypsis/ or on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/p/C8UIIg2OKRF/

For a quick overview, click below to watch a short trailer for the novel.

Watch the trailer

Anticipated release later this year - $0.00

Fiction Author

J. Gordon Manias

“Imaginative”, “vivid storytelling”, “gripping”. These are just a few of the reader comments from new fiction writer, J. Gordon Manias. This is the official author website where you can find “stimulating fiction . . . stories that matter”.

J. Gordon's Story