THE FALL IS COMING. BUT HOPE LIES IN THE PAST. As modern civilization crumbles under its own weight, a small band of travelers makes a fateful go back. Back to the year 1604, to the land of the Mohawk. Armed with critical knowledge and carefully chosen technology, their mission is as daring as it is uncertain—empower Indigenous nations before European colonization takes root and offer a new path forward for humanity. But history is no tame beast. Little Feather, a disaffected Mohawk youth abducted in childhood, is drawn to the mysterious newcomers. Haunted by the brutal cycle of inter-tribal warfare and guided by visions of his spirit animal, he yearns to end the bloodshed that scars his people. The strangers may hold the key—but can he trust them? And will their presence change the future for the better, or unleash consequences even worse than the ones they hope to prevent? Time is fragile. Destiny is not yet written. But rebellion runs deep—in every age.
I am a retired physician and specialist in palliative care. I have published books on palliative care and geriatrics for clinicians and the lay public.
Recently, I have branched out in my writing, publishing my first novel, Operation Reboot in September, 2025.
Dr. James Hallenbeck's debut novel, Operation Reboot, humanity stands on the brink of self-destruction. A group of time travelers, fleeing a collapsing future, goes back to 1604 in pre-colonial North America. Their mission is to aid the Mohawk people in resisting European aggression, believing this will alter the timeline and create a better future, a "reboot" for civilization. The story weaves together historical details and time-travel adventure. One of the time travelers, a Japanese martial arts master named Tomoe, teaches her skills to the Mohawks, demonstrating the novel's blend of cultures. The book explores how societal flaws are repeated and whether a new path can be forged. By focusing on a single time-altering event, Hallenbeck crafts a character-driven narrative with high stakes, leaving readers to wonder if their gamble will pay off.