Critical Reception
Selected review highlights arranged by series and title
Series
“A gritty, haunting dystopian sci-fi novel… the author does an incredible job layering the story with powerful characters and rich world-building. The narrative stood out because it focused more on the world's social issues than on complicated sci-fi tropes… Cassandra IX was a powerful protagonist who carried the majority of this collection of stories.”
“A page-turning cautionary tale providing a glimpse into a world in which greed, racism, and hate shape our future.”
“Reflecting the dark truth of humanity's history of colonialism, slavery, and racialized oppression… a multilayered exploration of the struggle and humility of changing one's ideology or beliefs… transcending other works in the genre.”
“A cinematic sci-fi dystopia following one man's search for redemption.”
“The narrative is vibrant from start to finish and combines enough action and drama to satisfy the reader.”
“An SF saga that's equally rousing and poignant.”
“This gritty, fast-paced thriller… will appeal to both adult and mature young adult audiences who are concerned about where society may be heading.”
“Blindside story twists, bursts of clever banter, boundless imagination, and sly social critique make this a quick and memorable read.”
“It's not a fun read; it's a furious one… It holds a mirror up and dares you to look.”
Series
“It's dystopian literature at its finest.”
“A gripping story featuring well-constructed characters, poignant moral dilemmas and a chillingly realistic dystopian future.”
“Thought provoking Science Fiction that keeps the reader engrossed.”
“A truly original sci-fi series with strong ideas and even stronger characters.”
“The richly detailed scenes, the overall creativity, and the synergy between characters are what elevates this series to reading greatness.”
“With solid science fiction balanced with Shakespearean quotes and believable character development, these stories draw the reader in and urge them to devour chapter after chapter.”
Series
“Well-written and suspenseful, Erickson's story blends scientific theory with fast-paced action in an adventure that should have its fans practically sitting up and begging for a sequel.”
“A wonderfully absorbing science fiction novella presenting existential questions that occupy the reader's mind long after the book has been put down.”
“A great read for the true science-fiction lover.”
“The interplay between these diverse species… makes Erickson's tale as charming as it is compelling.”
Series
“A speculative compilation that acknowledges humanity's long struggle ahead.”
“The author displays bright moments of humor alongside darker bits of existential dread. His stories succeed on two levels, both as diverting bits of adventure and as deeper commentary on our modern life.”
“Good, solid, trad sci-fi with a twist of the mind-bending and existential… Erickson deserves to be more widely known.”
“The Prince is a compelling novel of action, survival, and stark morality, where the struggles range from unique and personal to galaxy-shaking.”
“A fast-paced, survivalist nail-biter, with a large helping of science fiction adventure, a dash of military action, and a pinch of coming-of-age drama… Erickson's veteran writing chops set this novel apart from a big portion of the self-publishing pack.”
“Mixing classic literature, science fiction, and religious texts as its inspiration, the unique setting of this book is quick to stimulate the imaginations of its readers.”
Series
“Erickson does not skimp on the action in his debut novel… the author excels in developing the characters of the story… a compelling read that will leave you wondering where time has gone.”
“Erickson elevates the premise beyond the Bourne-again shtick with an interesting twist and taut, engaging writing that will keep even jaded readers hooked.”
“The story of Burns's dramatic development — a physical-psychic journey… reveals the extreme suffering and ecstatic joys a soul experiences on the road to redemption.”
“An ambitious thriller that looks at the gray areas between vengeance and justice, law and morality.”
“Erickson has created a taut, suspenseful thriller sure to entice fans of Clancy, Flynn, and Ludlum… His characters are not one-dimensional.”
“The author does an amazing job of crafting believable, witty dialogue… he subtly builds the suspense to a breaking point.”
“Readers looking for a new hero to follow after exhausting Bond and Bourne will gravitate toward the professional, enigmatic Burns.”
“The novel 'Eagle' gives a more human side to many of the characters, especially Burns… Fans of mystery, intrigue and suspense will love the 'Birds of Flight' series.”
“I found 'Falcon' to be very fast paced and I felt like I was kept on the edge of my seat through most of the intrigue.”
“'Falcon' and the entire 'Birds of Flight' series by J.M. Erickson is a must read for people who enjoy thrillers that involve espionage and psychological suspense.”
“J.M. Erickson has a gift for writing these intriguing interweaving plotlines that keep you hooked… One of the better written and more interesting ones I've come across in a very long time.”
“This whole series is just by far one of the most original and just flat out interesting thriller/suspense/spy series I've ever read — the writing is superb.”
