What genre is Horizon? Author Tabitha Lord is often asked that question, and while it solidly belongs on the shelves next to other science fiction novels, it’s actually much more. She first heard the term “space opera” at a pitch slam a few years ago. A pitch slam is like speed dating with agents. The writer gets three minutes, live, in front of an agent, to enthusiastically rattle off all the important facts about her novel, while making it sound so compelling that the agent simply must ask to see the manuscript!
“Ah, you have a space opera,” one agent nodded at Tabitha, smiling.
“Yes. Yes, I do,” she agreed, and then proceeded to google space-opera at the next break.
Turns out space opera is a sub-genre of sci-fi, hence the “space” part, but also contains elements of warfare, drama, and adventure. Horizon certainly falls under this category. But even with this added scope, Lord still struggles to classify it as such – mostly because she thinks the story will appeal to readers of many genres, not just sci-fi.
Lord was once asked to describe Horizon in ten words, and here’s what she came up with:
Science fiction meets romance meets survival fiction meets military thriller!
It’s a human story, painted on a science fiction canvas. But to tell it the way she wanted, Lord had to worry less about genre and more about authentically creating her characters and their worlds. The relationship between Caeli and Derek, the two protagonists, is central to the story. She didn’t want to water it down, or put less of a focus on it to please a segment of her audience. On the other hand, she didn’t want to lose or disappoint readers who were counting on a sci-fi action adventure.
Ultimately, Lord’s goal is always to tell a good story, and she contends readers are willing to give something a try if they believe that’s what they’ll get. So, step aboard the starship Horizon, and join Caeli and Derek as they fight for their lives, their people, and their love. And, please, let her know what you think!
You can find Tabitha Lord’s book here but….
You can WIN a copy of this book! Just leave a comment below. One winner will be chosen at random and the author will contact you directly. Contest ends one week after publication.
Science Fiction, Space Opera, it doesn’t matter. It sounds great.
Thanks Connie! I hope you have a chance to read it. Best of luck!
Rhode Island authors rock! Congratulations, Tabatha!
Thank you! It was quite an honor to win. Thanks for entering the giveaway!
Simon Sez, “Tabitha, Dana wins the book.”
I have the electronic, tablet version, but it’s not the same as a “real book”, and with Winter coming,
it’ll be a perfect addition to my “cozy nights” plan!
Congratulations on your award winning book!
LOL! Good luck:)
A good story is a good story. The genre label isn’t important to me. Thanks for the chance.
Agreed and good luck!
No doubt this award-winning book will be well received by every fan of scifi/fantasy. Tabitha is a terrific author.
Thanks Paul!!!
Congrats, again, Tabitha on the WD self-published award! When my hubby saw your book at the Tiverton Library ARIA signing event in June he wanted a copy! He really does have good taste…in many things 😜
Thank you! It was such an exciting award. I’m still pinching myself! Good luck…
This sounds wonderful. I would love to win this book😊.
Thank you for entering and good luck!
Again Tabitha, congratulations on a wonderful novel!!!
Thanks Mike! See you at Comic Con!
I’m looking forward to reading this book
The idea is compelling
I as late haven’t heard of a military story as such
It sounds like a great movie
Best Fran odonnell
Movie rights…wouldn’t that be fantastic!! Thanks for entering and good luck!
There’s nothing wrong with a good space opera!
Right? Thanks for entering and good luck!
This sounds wonderful! I would love to read more.
Thank you! Best of luck!
Congrats Tab on this award-winning novel!
Thanks Deb! Still pretty excited:)