Crossroads: Inside Callisto by Matthew M DeGennaro

 Crossroads: Inside Callisto by Matthew M DeGennaro is a unique fiction novel incorporating a blend of mystical new age philosophies and science fiction.  DeGennaro has created his own hybrid fiction genre- in which he incorporates his philosophical views within the context of a science fiction-drama.  There is an eclectic mix of characters  and events including  time travel, aliens, gypsies, as well as esoteric new age and religious  philosophies.

The story centers around the  main hero, Angelo, who is himself an eccentric middle aged man who miraculously and supernaturally escaped death twice as a child.  Coincidently, he meets up with an odd gypsy named "Pop", who foretells his future death- which will occur in two weeks.  Pop is a supernatural guide throughout Angelo's personal journey. He has supernatural powers that guide Angelo throughout the story- he is like a personal counselor and angel rolled into one character.  Face to face with his impending death, Angelo experiences a series of unusual adventures as well as philosophical and mystical searching as to the purpose of life and concepts such as free will.

The chapters are short and filled with fast paced dialog.   At first in the first chapters it is vague as to whether the story is told in the first person point of view from Angelo's stand point or  the third person. Apparently, the point of view alternates between chapters. This might prove to be confusing for some readers although it gives it an omnipotent touch.    There are also many scene and time changes throughout the book- nothing remains constant.  For example in the opening scene its 1990 and the next chapter opens in the 1960s. This follows through with the theme of one's life flashing before his eyes before death.  If the reader can keep up with the constant fast paced setting and time changes,  and eclectic adventures, the author's philosophical beliefs are unraveled through the character, Angelo.  The reader is drawn to find out what happens at the end of this suspense piece of fiction.  As a blogger I received a copy of this book for the purpose of writing this review.