New book explores humanity's struggle for survival after the sun's disappearance plunges Earth into darkness
ORLANDO, FL – Author Ruth S. Norman will release "Before It's Too Late," a science fiction novel, in February 2026. The book explores how scientific, political, and civilian sectors respond when the sun disappears without explanation, leaving Earth in permanent darkness. Norman dedicated the work to her mother's memory and her children: Michael, Keith, Donna, Andrew, and Sherry.
The story follows Christopher Bennett, an aeronautics engineer who designed the Starship Phoenix for deep space exploration. After the sun vanishes in July 2029, Bennett must decide whether to join the Phoenix crew on a mission to investigate the phenomenon or remain with his wife, who faces recovery from injuries sustained in a car accident.
Norman began developing the concept 20 years ago following an observation of unusual atmospheric conditions during a morning walk on a Fort Lauderdale beach. The author spent two decades researching astrophysics and aerospace engineering to incorporate technical details into the narrative.
"The book examines how different people respond when basic assumptions about existence change," Norman said. "It includes scientists attempting to explain what happened, government officials coordinating responses, and civilians dealing with the breakdown of normal life."
The novel alternates between locations in Florida and Washington, D.C., including Kennedy Space Center, Orlando, Miami, and government facilities. The story includes multiple perspectives: a limousine driver witnessing the transformation of Orlando's tourism industry, an architect in Miami observing urban breakdown, and scientists briefing officials about magnetic field disturbances.
Norman incorporated scientific concepts related to Earth's magnetosphere, astrophysics, and space exploration technology. The author researched how spacecraft operate within magnetic fields and the potential challenges of traveling through disturbed atmospheric conditions.
The book addresses how different social systems respond under pressure. The narrative depicts the closure of theme parks, food shortages, increased violence, and government efforts to maintain order. Norman set scenes at recognizable Florida locations to establish context for the societal changes.
"The research process involved understanding both the science of what could happen to Earth without sunlight and how human systems might adapt or fail," Norman said. "The technical aspects serve the story rather than overshadowing it."
Norman structured "Before It's Too Late" as the first volume in a series. This installment ends with preparations for the Phoenix mission. Subsequent volumes will follow the crew's investigation into the darkness surrounding Earth.
The book will be available in three formats with the following ISBNs: paperback (979-8-90224-019-8), hardback (979-8-90224-020-4), and ebook (979-8-90224-018-1). The novel falls within the science fiction genre, specifically addressing themes of apocalyptic scenarios and human resilience.
About the Author
Ruth S. Norman is an accomplished author with a vivid imagination and a passion for storytelling that began in childhood. Her ability to blend scientific concepts with human drama creates narratives that are both intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant. Norman resides in Florida, where the inspiration for "Before It's Too Late" first struck two decades ago.
