Book cover of Diversion by Lawrence Nault

Diversion

Paperback: ISBN 978-1-7380681-3-5

Ebook: ISBN 978-1-7380681-4-2

Hardcover: ISBN 978-1-7380681-5-9

by

The MacIver Kids Adventures

Book 2 of 3

Plot Synopsis

When the ten adopted MacIver siblings are recruited by an alien to help save a hidden civilization trapped under the ice of Jupiter's moon Europa, they discover that their unique family bonds might be the key to helping an ancient society evolve - if they can survive the political intrigue and social upheaval their presence triggers.

Detailed Synopsis

In the aftermath of their first alien encounter, the MacIver children find themselves drawn into an even greater adventure when Pinqua returns, seeking their help to save the lost city of Atlantis. Hidden beneath the ice of Jupiter's moon Europa, this advanced civilization faces both political turmoil and environmental threats that only the unique abilities of the MacIver family can address.

Brad, one of the older MacIver siblings, discovers he carries the genetic legacy of one of Atlantis's founding families, making him crucial to the city's survival. As he falls deeply in love with Iris, a young Atlantean woman, he becomes entangled in the political machinations of Leonidis, one of the city's ruling triumvirate who seeks to consolidate power through genetic manipulation and social control.

Meanwhile, Allen—whose mysterious connection to alien consciousness continues to grow—realizes he must make an impossible choice that will save the city but break his brother's heart. The other MacIver siblings work to address the city's pressing issues: radiation leaks threatening the population, segregated citizens living in underwater pods, and a rigid social hierarchy that oppresses women and those deemed "imperfect."

The situation becomes more urgent when Diana, Leonidis's daughter, seeks refuge with the MacIvers after surviving her father's abuse and attempts to force her into bearing a child using Brad's stolen genetic material. As Earth exploration vessels approach Europa, the MacIvers must help Atlantis escape while smuggling Diana to safety on Earth.

Through clever manipulation of ancient technology and cultural change, they manage to launch the city from its icy prison. However, victory comes at a personal cost—Brad and Iris must separate, though their supernatural bond suggests their story isn't over. The tale ends with the MacIvers returning to Earth with Diana, while Atlantis begins its long journey home, leaving Allen carrying the weight of knowledge about events yet to come.

This story explores the power of chosen family, the price of progress, and the courage required to challenge systemic oppression. Through themes of sacrifice, love, and cultural evolution, it demonstrates how the bonds of family can transcend not only blood but the vast distances of space itself.

Genre Analysis

PRIMARY GENRE: Young Adult Science Fiction

Space Opera

  • Interplanetary travel
  • Advanced technology
  • Cosmic scale events
  • Space-based adventure

Social Science Fiction

  • Examination of social structures
  • Cultural commentary
  • Political systems analysis
  • Gender role exploration

Family Drama

  • Sibling relationships
  • Adoption themes
  • Family bonds
  • Intergenerational relationships

Coming-of-Age

  • Character growth
  • Identity development
  • First love
  • Personal responsibility

Romance

  • Brad and Iris's relationship
  • Cultural barriers to love
  • Sacrifice for love
  • Hope for reunion

CROSS-GENRE ELEMENTS

Adventure

  • Space travel
  • Underwater city
  • Escape sequences
  • Problem-solving challenges

Political Thriller

  • Power struggles
  • Political intrigue
  • Leadership conflicts
  • Social reform

Age Range Analysis

RECOMMENDED AGE RANGE: 12-17 (Grades 7-12)

CONTENT CONSIDERATIONS

  • Violence: Mild to moderate (Diana's abuse, political conflict)
  • Romance: Age-appropriate (Brad/Iris relationship is sweet rather than sensual)
  • Complex Themes: Social justice, politics, discrimination
  • Emotional Content: Family separation, sacrifice, loss

READING LEVEL FACTORS

  • Vocabulary: Advanced middle grade to young adult
  • Plot Complexity: Multiple storylines
  • Scientific Concepts: Space travel, radiation, technology
  • Political Elements: Complex social structures and power dynamics

WHY 12+ (Lower Limit)

1. Emotional maturity needed for:
  • Understanding Diana's abuse storyline
  • Processing complex family dynamics
  • Comprehending political manipulation
  • Dealing with themes of separation
2. Reading comprehension needed for:
  • Scientific concepts
  • Multiple character perspectives
  • Political intrigue
  • Cultural differences

WHY 17 (Upper Limit)

Still relevant for older teens due to:

  • Complex social commentary
  • Romance elements
  • Scientific concepts
  • Family dynamics

NOT RECOMMENDED FOR UNDER 12 DUE TO:

  • Complex political themes
  • Abuse storyline
  • Sophisticated emotional content
  • Advanced scientific concepts

EXCEPTIONS

Mature 11-year-olds might handle the content if:

  • Reading at advanced level
  • Emotionally mature
  • Guided by adult discussion

Adults may also enjoy the book despite YA classification

Educational Resources

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Book Catalog

Book Series Age Range
Loma
MacIver Kids Adventures 10-13
Diversion
MacIver Kids Adventures 12-17
Titan's Song
MacIver Kids Adventures 12-17
Draconim Lacrima Mortis
Draconim 12-17
Feeding The Fires
Draconim 12-17
Inversion
Standalone 18+
RePHleXions: Echoes of Existence
Standalone 18+
Leviticus 25: Jubilee
Standalone 16+
The Mountain Hermits Animal Tales
Standalone 4-8

Series

MacIver Kids Adventures
Draconim
Standalone Books

Age Categories

Children (4-8)
Teen (10-13)
Young Adult (12-17)
Adult (16+/18+)