Science fiction author Chris Laird has once again returned to the mysterious planet of Mykia with his newest installment, Origins 5: The New Mykia. With five novels now in the series, Laird proves that his imaginative universe only continues to expand, surprising readers with every turn of the page.
At the heart of this latest chapter is Xona Bari, a character long beloved for her strength, defiance, and resilience. But in The New Mykia, Laird pushes her further than ever before. Xona’s past—long hinted at in previous books—finally erupts to the surface, testing her beyond her limits. Readers will discover a different side of Xona, one they may have never expected to see. Vulnerability collides with determination, and in this collision lies the survival of not only Xona herself but also her entire civilization.
While the stakes for Mykia couldn’t be higher, the novel refuses to drown in solemnity. Instead, Laird injects a surprising amount of humor into the tension. Monty and Xona’s witty banter provides comic relief even in the darkest of moments, and Lisa Stratford—forever the earnest problem-solver—struggles with almost slapstick-like hilarity to keep everyone’s conflicts from spiraling out of control. This balance of high-stakes drama and laugh-out-loud comedy makes The New Mykia one of the most highly entertaining entries in the Origins saga.
Adding to the tension, the fragile relationship between the Mykians and the Uharans takes center stage. Their uneasy alliance begins to fracture, and one wrong move could plunge both peoples into devastating conflict. As the planet itself teeters on the brink of war, Xona must confront her most dangerous enemy yet: the unresolved shadows of her past.
Origins 5: The New Mykia is more than just another sequel—it’s a bold evolution of Laird’s storytelling, offering heart, humor, and heartbreak in equal measure. As rumors of a stage play and even a major motion picture adaptation swirl, readers should prepare themselves for an unforgettable journey back to Mykia.
Origins 5: The New Mykia will be available soon. Check out www.chrislaird.net for updates and his Instagram @chrislairdscifi2.
