J. R. Austin's novel, Mars The Final Day, is a historical fantasy that mixes science fiction, history, and hard science, all the while carrying a deeper philosophical message for humanity. The first in a trilogy that lays down the foundational knowledge of Ikaran daily life and the mysteries of the Grand Cycle. The world of Ikara was settled by an Earth-like race of humans who divided into five unique nations. Jast Rathael from Elmanith is a determined and shrewd man, who wishes to lead his country into a new space age and explore the neighboring planet, Azur. But though he has a lot of influence, he does not have the family name needed to facilitate this, and so he must earn his way to the top any way that he can. Marador is a GenSeer from Whycheral; the planet's premier genetic memory reader considered a prophet among his people. He believes that the very center of Ikaran spiritual life- the Grand Cycle - is in danger. He delivers a cryptic message to Jast of impending planetary doom unless the right choices are made. Shortly thereafter comes Candlefall and with that everything on Ikara changes forever. Now it is up to Jast to find a way to save Ikara… no matter how far he has to stretch his moralities