Main
Available from Craig Weidhuner...
All beings radiate a life force, but some have an additional ‘Mystical Force’ – a force which grants them special gifts, be it magical essence, demonic aura, or spiritual powers. While some consider these people to be gifted, there are others who feel these powers are unnatural…
Volume 1
Stranger in a Strange Land
Now Available
review
Once on Earth, Zolida and Shi-ra form a team with friends of Zolida in order to fight off those that are causing harm. Unfortunately, another group of humans is determined to get rid of them for their “ungodly” powers. If that wasn’t enough, a sorceress named Scarlet Knightwalker believes that if the chosen one meets the one not from this world, the meeting will set off a disastrous chain of events. Shi-ria must learn why Zolida is so determined to have her meet the chosen one and what fate Scarlet Knightwalker fights so vehemently against.
This novel builds conflict quickly and with a lot of action. Readers will be catapulted into the adventure from the opening pages. The author provides detailed world-building at the beginning of the story that gives readers a good understanding of where the different characters come from. As this is the first book which sets up the Stranger in a Strange Land saga, this is to be expected. Even though we are given this abundance of details the author always delivers the information within the action of the story so that it flows organically and ensures readers stay engaged even though facts and activity are coming in equal measure. These opening chapters do a great job of building up the tension in the story around upcoming conflict. This high level of tension around the conflict is carried through the novel with a plot and action that is always moving.
Mystical Force: Vol. 1 Stranger in a Strange Land is a riveting fantasy adventure novel that consistently engages readers. This is a fantastic starting point for a genre blending series that takes modern earth and inserts some intriguing science fiction ideas to create a page-turning adventure.”
- Literary Titan
Volume 2
Angels and Demons
Now Available
review
“In Mystical Force: Volume 2 Angels and Demons by Craig Weidhuner, Humans do not believe Earth is the only inhabited planet. Sister Rose is one of five nuns who hunt and kill demons. They are called upon by God to destroy the demons using their magical bullets which are specially designed to kill demons. Sister Rose’s parents passed away long ago, leaving her to become a young orphan raised in the church. Her roots are from the church, and their beliefs are deeply embedded in her mind. However, she meets a demon called Tokijin, who can transform into a human form. They fall in love, and Rose is caught between the beliefs she was raised with and her love for Tokijin.
Long ago, it was common for humans to destroy villages they thought were inhabited by demons and to murder any demon that was found. This created a war between demons and humans that has lasted centuries. However, not everyone in the universe feels demons are evil. For example, there is a planet called Orathos. The beings that reside there are determined to bring peace to the races of demons and humans.
Mystical Force: Volume 2 Angels and Demons is told from several viewpoints and at different locations in the universe. Weidhuner has fantastic character development. Each character is well thought out and brings a unique feel to the story. I found getting to know the characters, seeing their development and growth to be one of the most enjoyable parts of this novel.
The author’s writing style is spellbinding, drawing readers into the plot with strong emotional conflicts. However, the book primarily focuses on the romantic relationship between Rose and Tokijin. A demon and a demon hunting nun are two people who should despise one another because of how they have been raised. Yet, despite being taught from a young age to hate, they see the good in one another.
Mystical Force: Volume 2 Angels and Demons is a thrilling young adult fantasy novel. Combining science fiction elements and paranormal activity, the author creates action and suspense that will captivate teen readers.”
- Literary Titan
Volume 3
The Kolri and the Koldar
Now Available
review
“Mystical Force Volume 3: The Kolri and the Koldar tells the story of a detective and how he stumbles onto otherworldly connections much bigger than his current unsolved case. Detective Shinjo is transported to a world he didn’t know existed after a Taman Knight from the planet Thalia crosses his path.
The story begins with a detective trying to catch a local gang called ‘The Poison Starfish’. While investigating, a female battles the men at the harbor. She is unlike anyone the detective has ever come across. While searching for answers the detective is mugged and she appears just in time to help. Her name is Shi-ria, and she has a moral obligation to protect those in need. A sorceress sets Shi-ria and the detective on a path to discover a secret spell and transports them to the planet Thalia.
I have been following this series since book one and I can say that the writing gets sharper with every new entry. This story is relentlessly moving forward through a rollercoaster of emotion and action. Readers are provided with some background on Thalia and the Taman soldiers, but I would have enjoyed the story more if the other characters were just as detailed, because what is given is intriguing and the characters in this story are what really pull you in.
This is book three in a rollicking metaphysical action story and there is not much time spent covering things from previous books, so I recommend reading those two books before diving into this one. For two reasons really, because they build a fascinating story line, and you’ll understand the world better and have a greater appreciation for things that happen. In either case, there is still good fun to be had in this novel as the book does have a plot that can stand on its own as it provides just enough context for readers to follow this individual story.
I am consistently impressed with the visionary fantasy world that is meticulously developed in the Mystical Force series. There is a backstory that feels deep and readers can really immerse themselves in the lore if they wanted to.
Mystical Force Volume 3: The Kolri and the Koldar, by Craig Weidhuner is a character driven metaphysical fantasy story. With a storyline fit for comics, an innovative backdrop, and a stimulating mystery at its core, this is a gripping novel that will surely entertain readers.”
- Literary Titan
Volume 4
Many are 1, 1 is 0
Now Available
review
Mystical Force Volume 4: Many are 1, 1 is 0, by Craig Weidhuner, is the next installment in the series following a Taman Knight from the planet Thalia. An evil sorceress, Zolida, is trying to find an ancient scroll. Unfortunately, the scroll releases an omnipotent being named 0, whom she wants to control and use against her enemies.
The story begins with Zolida hiring a mercenary to steal the scroll. Shi-ria, a Taman Knight from the previous volume, tries to prevent Zolida from obtaining the scroll. Shi-ria does not know what power the scroll has but knows Zolida will use it to try and change the future for the worse. Zolida ends up with the scroll and releases 0 from its world. 0 is an almost God-like being that can change matter, time, and space. He becomes an important character and alters the reality that humans, mages, and demons know.
The writing in this book unveils a lot at a fast pace. There are many different characters involved in the plot, which gives the book depth. However, there is still minor individual character development. Nevertheless, the pace and tone of the book are well written and easy to read.
Although this is another installment in the series, this book focuses on a different character. The main characters from volume 3 were involved, but I don’t think you need to read the previous book to understand this one. I would’ve liked to see more depth in the characters between volumes and a better continuation of the plot overall. This volume reads as a stand-alone that could potentially have a sequel.
Mystical Force Volume 4: Many are 1, 1 is 0, by Craig Weidhuner, is a continuation that focuses on the evil mage Zolida. If you like action, adventure, magic, and triumph over evil, this book is for you.
- Literary Titan
Volume 5
Shadows and Darkness
Now Available
review
Craig Weidhuner’s fifth installment in the critically acclaimed series Mystical Force Volume 5: Shadows and Darkness continues the captivating journey of Detective Shinjo and the mystical Shi-Ria. Engaged in a ceaseless battle against the forces of crime and chaos, their purpose is to maintain equilibrium in their turbulent world.
Our protagonists’ path intertwines with a dangerous and notorious gang, the Poison Starfish, during an unexpected encounter at a shuttered store. A familiar face surfaces amidst this criminal ensemble – Chiyoko, a character carved by hardships and life’s cruel jests. Her sudden appearance initiates a chaotic distraction, perilously endangering Shinjo. However, the timely intervention of Shi-Ria ensures the duo’s survival and successful arrest of the gang.
Shi-Ria’s mysterious visions of Chiyoko start to crystalize, confirming her as the prophetic figure destined to become a Koldar or a Taman Knight, previously hinted at in Weidhuner’s earlier works. As the narrative unfolds, Shinjo, Shi-Ria, and Chiyoko collectively take on the ominous Sons of the Shadow and the looming rise of Kage Dai Yokai.
Maintaining the quintessential style that fans have come to appreciate, Weidhuner crafts each character with an individual narrative, each contributing to the grand tapestry of the series. The novel zips along briskly, with a steady tone, setting the rhythm for the reader’s immersion.
The addition of Chiyoko, previously a shadowy figure in prophetic visions, brings a fresh and intriguing perspective. Yet, one may find themselves longing for more, as the novel’s brevity leaves some questions unanswered. Compared to its predecessors, which offered richer action sequences and diverse points of view, this volume might seem a bit contained.
Mystical Force Volume 5: Shadows and Darkness perseveres in weaving Shinjo and Shi-Ria’s epic as they strive for harmony and order. This book promises to be an engaging read, ideal for fans of riveting adventures, themes of found family, and a hint of an enigma.
- Literary Titan
Also available from Craig Weidhuner...
Volume 1
State-Sponsored Hero
Now Available
review
When duty calls, Tovarich Revanov answers. The zealous young man is a member of the Ruthenian secret police tasked with fishing out enemies of the communist state and clamping down on any anti-government uprising. This time, Tovarich has a peculiar mission: consenting to become a genetically enhanced state-sponsored hero. He approaches his new mission with his trademark commitment and gives his all to protect what he believes to be a just cause. But Tovarich soon begins to wonder if he is indeed on the right side.
Craig Weidhuner’s Liberator: The People’s Guard (Volume 1) is a fast-paced, action-packed novella that pits a totalitarian government against local rebels. It takes an interesting approach by featuring not just the regular tactics that totalitarian states adopt such as media propaganda but also unconventional tools like superheroes — quite imaginative, if you ask me. Weidhuner’s writing is direct and clear and reads almost like an action adventure comic that you can read to young kids at bedtime. This takes nothing away from the immersive experience the story offers, though. Weidhuner definitely has compelling ideas and I reveled in them. He excels at using his work to mirror the hypocrisy that dominates global politics and focuses on two superpowers which he doesn’t name but alludes to (you’d easily figure them out). He also does well at vividly presenting his characters. You can put a face to each key character and understand their personality.
Although Weidhuner got a lot right, and I enjoy the brevity of the story, I would have loved to have seen more depth in the plot and more time given to flesh out the fantastic ending. If you are down for some light reading featuring a good story you can blitz through in a few hours, you might want to check out Liberator: The People’s Guard: Vol. 1 because it is entertaining.
- Literary Titan
About the Author
Craig Weidhuner
Born and raised in Markham Ontario Canada, Craig inherited his love of science fiction and fantasy from his father. Growing up a fan of Star Trek, Star Wars, Godzilla as well as both Marvel and DC comics (just to name a few), Craig was motivated to tell stories ever since he would fantasy role play as a child.
Having studied film and television at Seneca College, Craig always took to heart the words of his professor, Michael Monty who said, “what makes a good story are interesting characters”. For without interesting, relatable characters, no amount of action, special effects, sex or violence will save your story.
Craig also drew inspiration from his family’s and his own spiritual journeys. Born a Christian, later turned Spiritualist, Craig (like Gene Roddenberry) likes to use his fictional world as a metaphor for the real world and to discuss real world events and philosophical topics in an urban fantasy/comic book setting.
When he’s not working he likes to relax and meditate or go for a drive in the country, because being surrounded by nature makes him truly feel at one with God/the universe/call it whatever you like.