Honorable Mention: L. Ron Hubbard's Writers of the Future Contest • 2024 International Firebird Book Award Winner

An outcast loner survives the impossible. How can he survive becoming the proof that no one can deny?

Hector Whitehorse did not belong — not here, not anywhere.

Born on a New Mexico reservation, but educated in the white-man's school, Hector was part of two worlds, but at home in neither. It only got worse when his entrapment went from a feeling to a reality: trapped between Earth and someplace else.

Hector's close encounter nearly cost him his life. The repercussions could make him wish that he had not been so lucky.

Reviews

• Pale Face is "pretty darned good. I like it. I love how [Hector] sees the aliens and the white men in the same light. A nice, brutal, ironic twist ... this is good stuff." — Dave Wolverton, International Best-Selling Author
• Pale Face is "a thought-provoking blend of science fiction, mysticism, and deep character study. The narrative explores themes of identity, belonging, and the repercussions of the unknown. The book is notable for its vivid character portrayal and rich descriptive writing, with some reviewers highlighting Kilpack’s ability to intertwine Navajo mysticism and metaphysical intrigue.The plot combines fast-paced sci-fi elements with deeper reflections on race, culture, and alienation. Fans of suspense, conspiracy thrillers, and character-driven stories will find much to enjoy in this novella. Kilpack’s writing is original and possesses emotional depth. Pale Face is an immersive read that offers both entertainment and substance." — Jasveer Singh Dangi, author of The Hunter Genesis
• "The characters [in Pale Face] are relatable and the mystery is compelling. It is a magnificent little book! I had a great time reading it. I recommend you go buy it immediately and have a good read!" — Nicolas Lemieux, author of Seven Drifts 📷
• 5/5 Stars — Pale Face is "absolutely fascinating! The book gives whole new meaning to the phrase 'pale face.' Pale Face is, in part, sci-fi. But I found it to be so much more. It's a deep-diving character study of Hector that borders on Navajo mysticism. Kilpack's writing style was mesmerizing in the depth to which he presented Hector." — Jeff Bailey, author of Not On My Watch
• 5/5 Stars — Pale Face is "a clever story! Well written ... juicy lines such as – 'he turned his attention upward toward the stars. It was cool, the breeze barely rustling the sparse grass, but still managing to carry along the aromatic scent of sage.' Loved the settings, well crafted characters, nicely plotted. Leaned on the metaphysical to add intrigue. A lot of research went into this story. Enjoyed the originality!" — Vine Voice, Amazon.com
• 5/5 Stars — Pale Face is a "masterful blending of fiction with historical and contemporary issues. Vivid characters and scenes play out in this intriguing and suspenseful story. Multiple characters come to life and evoke sympathy, empathy, admiration and disdain as we come to know them. Interracial, social and quasi legal issues are intertwined. Overall a suspenseful, perfectly paced, thought provoking story you will not want to put down until the end, which will catch you off guard." — Will Davis, author of Artificial Intelligence
• 5/5 Stars — "Pale Face pulled me in immediately. I loved the descriptive writing and the original plot. Hector grew up on the Navajo Reservation in New Mexico, where UFO sitings are common, although not readily believed. But his experience changes his life in ways one wouldn't imagine. I enjoyed the fast pace and believable struggle as he deals with trying to make sense of his life-changing experience. Close encounters of an original kind!" — V.J. Garske, author of The Raven Moonstone
• 5/5 Stars — Pale Face is "a fast-paced combo of sci-fi, intrigue, mysticism, conspiracy thriller, and inevitable romance. The author's writing is addictive and richly layered. Highly recommended!" — Jack King, author of Beyond Blood