Stewart F. Brennan Explores Power, Intuition, and Ancient Secrets in The Shard of Asclepius
A Thrilling Blend of Mystery, History, and Technology
Featured in Reader’s House Magazine
Stewart F. Brennan discusses The Shard of Asclepius, his debut novel blending ancient history, hermetic principles, and modern technology, while exploring power, secrecy, and humanity’s profound connection to nature and intuition.
Stewart F. Brennan is a storyteller who seamlessly blends ancient mysteries with modern intrigue, challenging readers to rethink power, intuition, and humanity’s connection to nature. His debut supernatural thriller, The Shard of Asclepius, is an exhilarating journey through the veils of secrecy, where history and technology collide in a gripping narrative.
A former lean manufacturing specialist and electrical engineer, Brennan’s analytical mind has always been drawn to patterns—whether in corporate structures or the enigmatic threads of ancient history. His transition into writing was fueled by a deep desire to explore the forces shaping our world, from hidden power structures to the uncharted territories of human consciousness.
The Birth of a Shadowy Collective
At the heart of The Shard of Asclepius lies the concept of the Collective—a powerful, clandestine entity controlling vast networks of corporations, banks, and governments. Brennan’s inspiration for this shadowy organization stems from real-world observations of corporatocracy, where decision-making is dictated by a select few at the top, prioritizing profit over ethics. “Weapons companies thrive on war, pharmaceutical giants prosper on illness—this dystopian economic model fuels an endless cycle of expansion, demanding ignorance from the masses,” Brennan explains. The Collective, much like its real-world counterparts, operates in secrecy, exerting influence over intelligence agencies, media, and political systems.
David Collins: The Awakening of a Mind and Soul
Brennan’s protagonist, David Collins, embodies the journey of self-discovery and awakening. “David Collins is me,” he admits. “But he’s also a reflection of anyone who has experienced a profound transformation of consciousness.” Through Collins’ quest, readers are invited to question their perceptions of reality, power, and personal freedom.
The Order of Hermes: Guardians of Ancient Wisdom
A central element of the novel is the mysterious Order of Hermes, an organization rooted in hermeticism and the lost wisdom of ancient Egypt. Brennan drew inspiration from the Ptolemaic era and the legendary library of Alexandria, weaving historical truths with mythological elements. “The idea of knowledge being suppressed or lost has always fascinated me,” he says. “The Order of Hermes represents those who safeguard these ancient teachings, offering a counterbalance to the Collective’s manipulative grip on modern society.”
The Power of Place: Quebec and New York as Storytelling Anchors
The novel’s setting—spanning Quebec and New York State—is no coincidence. Brennan’s personal connection to these regions, shaped by years of exploring their landscapes, lends authenticity to the narrative. “There’s a magic in nature that connects us to a greater consciousness,” he reflects. “These locations serve as more than just a backdrop; they act as catalysts for David’s journey, guiding him toward forgotten knowledge and inner truth.”
Merging Ancient Mysteries with High-Tech Realities
One of the most compelling aspects of The Shard of Asclepius is its fusion of ancient knowledge with cutting-edge technology. Brennan, with his background in electrical engineering, understands the rapid evolution of digital systems and their implications. “We’ve gone from simple binary computing to AI-driven surveillance and warfare within a few decades,” he notes. His novel juxtaposes these advancements with suppressed historical truths, raising critical questions about the nature of progress and control.
A Call to Intuition and Conscious Awareness
Beyond its thrilling narrative, The Shard of Asclepius carries a deeper message—one that encourages readers to reconnect with their intuition. “The world today is driven by ego and greed, yet intuition offers an alternative path,” Brennan states. “There’s a knowledge within each of us that isn’t learned from books but understood on a deeper level.” His novel challenges readers to trust their instincts, seek truth, and embrace the possibility of a different way of living—one aligned with nature, wisdom, and conscious awareness.
Stewart F. Brennan’s debut novel is more than just a supernatural thriller; it is an invitation to question, explore, and awaken. With The Shard of Asclepius, he has crafted a work that not only entertains but also urges readers to look beyond the surface and into the hidden forces shaping our world.
