Talisman: Subterfuge by Aaron Ryan introduces readers to a world living in the aftermath of a terrifying alien invasion. Liam Mayfield (the Talisman) is a brave soldier tormented by the death of Janine, his wife, who died in a heinous Gorgon (alien) attack. Desperate to reunite with her by any means necessary, Liam strikes a supernatural deal with a mystical presence to restore balance by saving one thousand lives. Only then will Janine be returned to the land of the living. Using magical talismans and superpowers to aid him on his quest, Liam races to get the job done. Before long, he meets Onyx, a journalist who seeks to uncover the Talisman's real identity. Their uneasy alliance brings them closer to confronting The Zorander, an enemy driven by revenge. Can Liam complete his mission and reclaim the life he once had?

Talisman: Subterfuge is a riveting sci-fi tale, with supernatural and action elements woven into its pulsating storyline. Simultaneously, there's a thrilling mix of moral dilemma and spiritual symbolism that lays the foundation for the book. Aaron Ryan's prose is vivid and immersive. The quick pacing adds energy and excitement to each scene. Liam's character growth from beginning to end is outstanding. He isn’t depicted as a perfect hero, but a regular man torn apart by loss, who's willing to do whatever it takes to reunite with his wife. Thus begins his epic quest of reconciliation and redemption. Onyx and The Zorander also bring something different but entertaining to the story. Onyx brings her determination, and The Zorander adds the conflict where necessary. I'm already looking forward to the next installment. Sci-fi enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy here.

Liam Mayfield lost his wife when humanity was fighting to reclaim Earth from the Gorgon invaders. Her death strained his relationship with her parents and their children to the point that they are not keen on seeing him. While he is mourning, a mysterious faction offers Liam a chance to reunite with his wife, but only if he saves a thousand lives. He assumes a secret identity to complete this mission, but his actions attract worldwide attention. One person determined to unmask him is Onyx Sleats, a reporter. Liam knows his prize is close, but he must stop Onyx and others like her from discovering his true identity before they become targets of his archrival, known only as the Zorander. Only time will tell if he succeeds in Aaron Ryan’s Talisman.

The events in Aaron Ryan’s Talisman occur after those in the Dissonance series, but the author provides a complete synopsis of the books at the beginning of this one. This connects the reader base to the ongoing adventure while keeping new fans informed about the overall plot. The author presents the perspectives of Liam and the Zorander from an almost neutral viewpoint. Their dialogue flows like poetry, subtly inviting readers to align themselves with whichever one they find more appealing. The details of Liam’s rescue operations will make readers feel like they are running the gauntlet alongside him. This fascinating narrative will appeal to science fiction fans, with its fast pace, impressively detailed fight scenes, and a subtle theme focusing on every individual having a divine purpose.