Aphelion

This is a nice story, partly funny, partly scary, and partly serious and heartfelt. The blend of elements works well and keeps it interesting, and it's nicely paced and plotted--with a nasty little twist at the very end. No spoilers; you'll have to read it.

I was reminded of the movie Tremors. Some of this story's elements run parallel.

Dialog is good, as long as you don't mind a little exaggerated dialect in spots. The characterization is realistic where it needs to be, but a little off-the-wall otherwise, as with the character of the general. Setting detail is just right.

Read it; you won't be sorry.