Author Patrick Fleming Explores Humanity's Reckoning with Nature in New Novel

Gaia's Revenge blends climate fiction, sci-fi, and spiritual allegory at LA Times Festival of Books 2026

Apr. 16, 2026 at 10:59pm

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An abstract, highly structured painting in earthy tones, featuring sweeping geometric arcs, concentric circles, and precise botanical spirals, conveying the powerful forces of the natural world and the conflict between humanity and Gaia.A surreal vision of the cosmic clash between humanity and the forces of nature, as depicted in Patrick Fleming's new novel 'Gaia's Revenge'.Los Angeles Today

Author Patrick Fleming's new novel 'Gaia's Revenge' is set to debut at the 2026 Los Angeles Times Festival of Books. The book blends climate fiction, science fiction, and spiritual allegory, following four individuals from diverse backgrounds who share an urgent vision of impending environmental catastrophe. Their quest to find a young Irish climate activist takes them on a dramatic journey filled with challenges posed by mercenaries and a secretive militia, culminating in a confrontation that will decide humanity's fate.

Why it matters

As the world grapples with the escalating climate crisis, Fleming's novel offers a thought-provoking exploration of humanity's complex relationship with nature and the consequences of ignoring its warnings. The diverse cast of characters and their internal struggles mirror real-world complexities, making the story a timely and impactful work of speculative fiction.

The details

In the opening scenes of 'Gaia's Revenge,' devastating events sweep the world, causing widespread panic. A Catholic nun, a Hindu priestess, a gay Protestant minister, and a Tlingit Native American marine biologist, all from different backgrounds, experience the same urgent vision. Bound by this shared revelation, they embark on a quest to find a young Irish climate activist, believed to be vital in ensuring humanity's future. However, their path is fraught with challenges posed by unyielding Russian mercenaries and a secretive American oil militia determined to thwart their mission. As the conflict escalates within an ancient stone fortress, the characters must confront the powers that defy understanding, with Gaia herself stepping in to decide the fate of the world.

  • The novel 'Gaia's Revenge' will debut at the Los Angeles Times Festival of Books 2026.

The players

Patrick Fleming

The author of 'Gaia's Revenge', celebrated for his work as a former hospital chaplain, retired psychotherapist, and internationally acclaimed speaker. His diverse experiences are reflected in the novel's characters and their inner struggles.

Gaia

The personification of the Earth, who steps in to confront the human conflict and decide the fate of the world in the novel.

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What’s next

Readers can discover more about 'Gaia's Revenge' and purchase a copy at the Inks and Bindings exhibit at Booth 978, Black Zone of the University of Southern California during the Los Angeles Times Festival of Books 2026. The book is also available on Amazon and other leading online book retailers.

The takeaway

Patrick Fleming's 'Gaia's Revenge' offers a captivating and thought-provoking exploration of the complex relationship between humanity and the natural world, urging readers to confront the consequences of ignoring the warnings of our planet. The diverse cast of characters and their internal struggles mirror the real-world complexities of the climate crisis, making this work of speculative fiction a timely and impactful read.