Author: markswritingcorner

Mark Ahern was born in 1979 and is from Ireland. He attained a Degree in Commerce from UCD in 2000 and a Masters in European Studies in 2001. He has written three novels to date encompassing science fiction and thrillers. At times Mark has used his experiences as an individual with a disability to write from a truly unique perspective. "Chronicles of Martan" which is his sole science fiction work to date, is an epic space odyssey inspired by his love of Star Wars. This was followed by "Not the Usual Suspect" and "Paradigm". His current project is called "The Irish Ripper" and should be available late 2019.

Distant Love (Part 61)

An hour later, Derek decides that a break is in order. There are no ships currently in orbit, so he won’t be missed. He goes down to the main thoroughfare to watch the few people come and go.

He feels a tap on his left shoulder and turns the wheelchair around, suspecting an errant youngster.

It is the woman with the tattoo; she is a few meters away and signalling with her hands for him to follow her. He shudders, feeling sick to the stomach.

She leads him to a small coffee shop, pulling away one of the chairs so he can drive the wheelchair beside the table.

“Coffee?” she asks him.

Derek nods in the affirmative as she goes to the counter, where the robotic server is ever ready.

She comes back two minutes later with two coffees and a pathological smile. She smells of expensive perfume.

“Here you go.” She leaves one of the cups within his reach. “I see that Maeve was in contact with you earlier. Don’t look shocked. You know that it is easy to monitor messages coming back and forth from the moon. The problem is the encryption. So, tell me, what did Maeve have to say for herself?”

Star Trek: Starfleet Academy Review – A New Era of Cadets

My dear readers, a new Star Trek series is here! Star Trek: Starfleet Academy is the 12th Star Trek series and part of executive producer Alex Kurtzman’s expanded Star Trek Universe. Set in the 32nd century, the far-future time period that was introduced in the later seasons of the series Star Trek: Discovery (2017–2024), Starfleet Academy follows the first new class of Starfleet cadets in over a century as they come of age and train to be officers. This is the period after “The Burn” that almost totally destroyed the Federation

Sandro Rosta, Karim Diané, Kerrice Brooks, George Hawkins, and Bella Shepard portray Starfleet Academy cadets, starring alongside Holly Hunter and Zoë Steiner, as well as Tig Notaro and Oded Fehr, who are reprising their roles from Discovery, and Robert Picardo returning as the character of the Doctor from other previous series.

So far, I’ve only watched the first episode, and I think it will gain traction. From a kind, non-violent Klingon to the first holographic cadet, it could get very interesting. The ensemble cast is introduced with care, giving each character a clear emotional hook without overwhelming the audience. Their interactions feel lived-in and sincere, suggesting long arcs of growth rather than quick archetypes. Importantly, the episode allows vulnerability to coexist with ambition; these cadets are capable and driven, but also uncertain, impulsive, and still figuring out who they want to be. That balance makes their journey immediately compelling.

One of the episode’s greatest strengths is its focus on perspective. By centering the story on cadets at the very beginning of their Starfleet journey, the show reclaims a sense of awe that longtime fans may remember from earlier Trek, while also making that wonder feel fresh. The Academy isn’t just a school—it’s presented as a crucible where personal histories, cultural differences, and ethical ideals collide. The premiere smartly uses this setting to explore what Starfleet represents in a changing galaxy, and why those values still matter.

On a more negative note, I feel the show could do with some eye candy. Most are plain, there is no seven of nine vibes, which I think is a pity.

Overall, the premiere succeeds because it’s hopeful. In a television landscape often dominated by cynicism, Star Trek: Starfleet Academy leans into the idea that learning, empathy, and shared ideals can genuinely shape a better future.

So far, I give the show three stars out of five. I’m looking forward to watching more.

Any other Trekkies out there? Leave a comment.

And don’t forget to subscribe.

A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms: Stunning Visuals and Storytelling

My dear readers, I have currently watched the first three episodes of A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms. It’s a slow burner but it’s growing on me. It is a captivating return to the world of Westeros, offering a refreshing, character-driven story that proves the Game of Thrones universe (it is set one hundred years prior to the last series) still has rich tales left to tell. Rather than relying on massive battles and political spectacle alone, the series shines through its intimacy, emotional depth, and timeless sense of adventure.

Created by Ira Parker and George RR Martin, it is the third television series in Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire franchise and is an adaptation of the Tales of Dunk and Egg series of novellas, beginning with The Hedge Knight. It stars Peter Claffey as Ser Duncan “Dunk” the Tall, the titular hedge knight, and Dexter Sol Ansell as his squire Aegon “Egg” Targaryen.

At the heart of the story is the unlikely duo of Ser Duncan the Tall and his sharp-witted squire, Egg. Their relationship is the soul of the series—warm, humorous, and deeply human. Duncan’s sincerity and moral compass contrast beautifully with Egg’s intelligence and hidden nobility, creating a dynamic that feels both authentic and endearing. Watching their bond grow across each episode is as rewarding as any grand plot twist.

Visually, A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms is stunning. The cinematography captures the beauty and brutality of the medieval-inspired landscapes with remarkable detail. From dusty tournament fields to quiet country roads and imposing castles, every setting feels alive and immersive. The production design and costumes further enhance the authenticity of the era, grounding the fantasy in a tangible, believable world. Of particular note, the scenery is from Northern Ireland.

So far, I give it four stars out of five and was happy to hear its getting a second series. I just hope that the ending is better than Game of Thrones.

Review of Dhurandhar: A Gripping Thriller Experience

My dear readers, earlier today, I watched the highest grossing hindi film of all time. It exceeded all of my expectations. A grandiose three-and-a-half-hour tale of gangsters and spies set in Pakistan. Yes, that is long. I don’t know what happened to films becoming shorter due to our reduced attention spans. That joke is on us.

It is written, co-produced, and directed by Aditya Dhar. It is produced by Jyoti Deshpande, Aditya Dhar, and Lokesh Dhar under Jio Studios and B62 Studios. The film features an ensemble cast including Ranveer Singh, Akshaye Khanna, Sanjay Dutt, Arjun Rampal, and R. Madhavan, alongside several supporting actors.

Serving as the first instalment of a two-part film series, it centres on a high-stakes covert counter-terrorism operation. The film follows a very sexy undercover Indian intelligence agent (hey that’s what the men say in the film) who infiltrates Karachi’s criminal syndicates and political power structures in Pakistan in an effort to dismantle a terror network targeting India.

The level of violence and threat is high. It is not for the faint-hearted. It is a fictional story that weaves in real events beautifully..

Dhurandhar is a gripping cinematic experience that balances scale, emotion, and intelligence with impressive confidence. From the very first frame, the film pulls you into a world driven by ambition, strategy, and moral complexity, and it never loosens its grip.

One of the film’s greatest strengths is its storytelling. The narrative unfolds with patience and purpose, layering tension and intrigue rather than relying on shortcuts. The screenplay is sharp and purposeful, allowing key moments to breathe while steadily building momentum. Every turn feels earned, and the film rewards viewers who pay attention to its subtleties and underlying themes.

Five stars out of five from me. All hail Netflix.

Exploring Humanity in _The Great Flood_: A Film Review

One of the best things about Netflix is that you get to watch films and documentaries from all over the world. One such film is The Great Flood from South Korea. It was co-written and directed by Kim Byung-woo.

An-na, an AI researcher and recent widow, played by Kim-Da-mi, wakes in her apartment to find floodwater rising in the thirty-floor complex. With her six-year-old son Ja-in, she attempts to reach safety.

However, they are no ordinary mother and child. The child is a robot designed to experience emotion. This is critical to the whole film. An asteroid has hit, and human extinction is imminent. World governments knew what was going to happen and funded secret efforts to survive, including a space station and research into the creation of engineered human bodies and consciousness. An-na’s employer is also revealed to be involved in these projects, putting her and her child central to humanity’s future.

What stands out most is the film’s balance between scale and humanity. While the flood itself is rendered with striking visual power—ominous skies, rising waters, and carefully staged moments of chaos—the story never loses sight of the people caught within it. The narrative lingers on personal choices, moral dilemmas, and quiet acts of courage, allowing the disaster to feel not just catastrophic, but deeply personal. This focus gives the film an emotional weight that elevates it beyond a standard disaster movie.

The performances are uniformly strong, grounded, and convincing. Rather than leaning into melodrama, the actors bring restraint and authenticity, making fear, grief, and resilience feel earned. Small gestures and silences often speak louder than dialogue, and those understated moments are some of the film’s most powerful.

Technically, The Great Flood is impressively crafted. The cinematography captures both the beauty and menace of nature, using light, color, and movement to heighten tension. The sound design is particularly effective—the rush of water, distant alarms, and sudden quiet all work together to create a visceral experience that keeps the audience on edge. The pacing is deliberate, allowing suspense to build naturally while still delivering moments of urgency and release.

Ultimately, The Great Flood is a film about survival in the broadest sense: not just surviving a natural catastrophe, but preserving compassion, responsibility, and hope when everything familiar is threatened.

If nothing else, it is a great story. With AI coming to the forefront of our lives, I expect more films of this nature in the future. Four out of five stars from me.

Exciting Updates on My Writing Projects

My dear readers, I do hope you are all keeping well and enjoying my posts. A quick update on my various projects as we head into February.

Wheelchair Wars: I have sent this to a professional editor. Hoping to have it published this year. This project has me really excited.

Romance Short Stories: I’m hoping to finish editing in 2-3 months. It will probably then be sent to a professional.

Pegasus: Editing has yet to begin.

Long Distance Love: About 40% of the first draft is complete.

Just a reminder about the novels I currently have for sale on Amazon: The Irish Ripper, Not the Usual Suspect, Paradigm, and Chronicles of Martan.

I feel that things are really progressing at the moment. This has been my best-ever January for views. All feedback is greatly appreciated.

Distant Love (Part 60)

Then he clicks on the icon.

Derek: Sorry, Maeve, I’ve been crazy busy at work. Haven’t had time to check out Darko World recently. Hows my fortress going?

Maeve: That’s been overrun for quite some time. All nobles were slaughtered.lol You should have told me. I would have kept things ticking over for ya. You know, for a fee, like.

Derek: Oh, I don’t know if I could afford you.

Maeve: Don’t be silly. Seriously, I’ve missed you. The parents are up my ass as per usual. You are the only person I feel like I can really talk to. You know you’re my only.

Derek’s heart races. He looks around his office, devoid of life or meaning.

To hell with it.

Derek: I feel the same way. And we will meet someday.

Maeve: I know. Actually, I might be in your space region in a few weeks. My Mum was saying she has an important cargo to bring to lunar orbit. Probably just more old people.Pity I can’t jump off the ship to meet you.

Derek: It would be cool, though. Soz, have to get back to work.

Derek would have liked to stay chatting, but his screen flashed.

A ship was looking to land in his quadrant.

Be terrified of The Devil in Disguise: John Gacy

For those of my readers with a stronger disposition, I came across this docuseries that may be worth giving a watch. Beware, though, it can be horrific at times.

Devil in Disguise: John Wayne Gacy is an eight-episode, American true crime drama miniseries that premiered on October 16, 2025, on Peacock. You can currently watch it on RTE Player for those in Ireland. It dramatizes the life and crimes of serial killer John Wayne Gacy, who murdered dozens of young men and boys during the 1970s.

is a gripping and deeply unsettling docuseries that stands out for its thoughtful storytelling and emotional depth. Rather than simply recounting shocking crimes, the series carefully explores how John Gacy was able to hide behind a façade of normalcy, offering a chilling insight into the psychology of deception and the failures that allowed his crimes to go unnoticed for so long.

The pacing is excellent, balancing suspense with clarity, and the use of archival footage, interviews, and expert commentary feels both respectful and impactful. Particularly powerful are the perspectives of investigators and those affected by Gacy’s actions, which add a human dimension that elevates the series beyond typical true-crime narratives.

Michael Churnus gives a great performance as John Gacy, displaying all the traits that helped him evade capture. I was particularly fascinated by how he could talk himself out of getting caught.

I give it four stars out of five. You have been warned.

Exploring 1975’s Cinematic Revolution

For those of readers interested in the history of films and how it can be a reflection of what is happening in society, this is an interesting watch. Breakdown: 1975 is a 2025 Netflix documentary by Morgan Neville exploring how a turbulent mid-70s America, marked by Watergate, Vietnam’s end, and economic woes, inspired a cinematic renaissance, leading to iconic films like Taxi Driver and One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, featuring insights from figures like Martin Scorsese and Jodie Foster. It examines 1975 as a peak year for character-driven cinema reflecting societal disillusionment, a “nervous breakdown” moment for the country.

The premise is that studios no longer knew what worked, as the population had become disillusioned. Westerns and musicals no longer cut it. The world was no longer black and white but grey. Movie makers were given much greater freedom leading to a burst of creativity.

Other classics from that one year include :

Dog day afternoon (Surely, the definition of anti-establishment)

Nashville

Monty Python and the Holy Grail

The Stepford Wives

Rollerball.

It was great while it lasted. But nothing lasts forever. Jaws was released and the time of the blockbuster had arrived.

Four stars out of five from me.

Why Dune is a Must-Read for Sci-Fi Fans

I finally did it, I read the novel Dune, written by Frank Herbert and originally published way back in 1965. It’s a significant feat, at one hundred and eighty thousand words. And every page was worth it! It’s one of the best-selling science fiction novels of all time.

Dune is set in the distant future in a feudal interstellar society, descended from terrestrial humans, in which various noble houses control planetary fiefs. It tells the story of young Paul Atreides, whose family reluctantly accepts the stewardship of the planet Arrakis. While the planet is an inhospitable and sparsely populated desert wasteland, it is the only source of melange or “spice”, an enormously valuable drug that extends life and enhances mental abilities. Melange is also necessary for space navigation, which requires a kind of multidimensional awareness and foresight that only the drug provides. As melange can only be produced on Arrakis, control of the planet is a coveted and dangerous undertaking.

This is one of those rare novels that feels vast without ever losing its grip on the reader. From the opening pages, Herbert immerses us in the harsh deserts of Arrakis, a world where sandworms rule, water is sacred, and politics are as deadly as the climate. The setting is not just a backdrop but a living system, intricately tied to culture, religion, economics, and power. Few science fiction novels build a universe that feels this coherent, purposeful, and alive.

The level of detail does mean it can be a hard slog at times, but I became increasingly engrossed. As a writer of science fiction myself, reading the novel spoke to me about the immense importance of world-building and that even minute details are important.

The political intrigue is equally gripping. The power struggle between House Atreides, House Harkonnen, and the Emperor unfolds with the complexity of a grand historical drama. Herbert trusts his readers, refusing to over-explain, and instead allows meaning to emerge through dialogue, internal monologue, and carefully placed details. This approach rewards close reading and makes the world feel ancient and layered, as if the events of the novel are just one chapter in a much larger history.

Herbert’s treatment of ecology was remarkably ahead of its time. Arrakis is a planet shaped by scarcity, and the Fremen’s intimate understanding of their environment is portrayed with deep respect. The idea that an ecosystem can be deliberately transformed—and that such transformation carries cultural and moral costs—feels strikingly modern. The sandworms, the spice melange, and the planet’s fragile balance form one of the most memorable and meaningful ecological systems in all of science fiction.

Ultimately, Dune endures because it combines epic storytelling with serious ideas, without sacrificing tension or wonder. It is a novel that challenges the reader as much as it entertains, offering action, mysticism, and political drama while quietly probing the dangers of power and prophecy. More than sixty years after its publication, Dune remains not just a cornerstone of science fiction, but a profound and unsettling meditation on the future of humanity itself.

Five stars out of five from me.