A Future Long Ago

A feel-good escape into the world of big-time college turfball, a sport where gladiators like Joe Kaboom are launched over the opposing teams by energy generated by cheerleaders like Ginny Jupiter and Sharon Baryon. Set in a galaxy long ago, but not so far away, where character triumphs, teamwork is key, and heroism is defined by actions, not labels. This traditional-values adventure fiction set against the looming backdrop of a larger galactic conflict, Joe’s story is one of humility, friendship, and personal growth.

In a galaxy long ago but not so far away, three young friends—Billy, Emily, and Jody—are coming of age in the small, fading town of Schlitzboro on the gray, watery world of Balaeni. Humans colonized Balaeni centuries ago, but the vastlings—mysterious and enormous marine mammals—still call this world home. When Billy Blaster decides to join the Star Legion, he leaves behind Schlitzboro and steps into a world filled with responsibility and challenges that test not only his physical strength but his sense of purpose.

Born into one of the most powerful families in the galaxy, Sam Warpwell has always carried the weight of expectations. Groomed for a future in politics, his path seemed set in stone—until a whirlwind of betrayal, love, and duty upends his world. In his final year, two remarkable women enter Sam’s life: Carol Comet, a principled Star Legion cadet and daughter of an industrial magnate, and Cybil Orban, the ambitious daughter of his father’s political rival.