This June, Hawkesbury Central Library hosts the official launch for emerging author AJ Ville's debut novel, Virillion: Outbreak, a high-intensity sci-fi thriller that blends medical realism, technological tension, and large-scale catastrophe.
Virillion: Outbreak opens on what should have been an ordinary Friday. Instead, an emergency lockdown seals Helixir, Australia's tallest and most technologically advanced skyscraper, trapping hundreds inside. As evacuation efforts collapse into chaos, fires spread, gunshots ring out, and people begin falling ill from a mysterious respiratory infection. Desperation drives some to fatal choices. Outside the tower, hospitals rapidly fill with patients showing the same symptoms. With dozens dead and no clear understanding of the pathogen or how it spreads, fear escalates and speculation of bioterrorism intensifies.
At the centre of the unfolding disaster is Anthea McBride, fighting to survive in a building turned ground zero for a deadly outbreak. But survival alone is not enough. As government agencies scramble to respond, uncovering the truth behind the catastrophe becomes critical.
AJ Ville brings a distinctive perspective to the genre. He began his professional career practicing nursing in Houston, Texas, before moving into clinical IT and later corporate IT. This progression provided the technical and medical foundation that informs the novel's credibility and pace. During his undergraduate nursing studies, Ville faced significant challenges in developing viable, authentic stories, experiences that ultimately shaped his disciplined approach to storytelling and led to his success as a full-time novelist.
Driven by love, Ville relocated to Sydney, Australia, where he continued to refine his author journey and develop Virillion: Outbreak. Outside of writing, he is an avid cyclist, runner, and gym enthusiast, and dedicates time to studying languages. His creative influences include books, documentaries, photography, and extensive travel, all of which contribute to the novel's global scope and cinematic intensity.
Virillion: Outbreak will appeal to readers of science-fiction, medical thrillers, techno-thrillers, and disaster fiction, offering a gripping exploration of modern vulnerability in the face of unseen threats.
This event will take place at Hawkesbury Central Library, Windsor on Saturday 6 June, 10:30am – 12:30pm. Signed copies of the novel will be available for purchase on the day, and the author will be present for questions and conversation. Bookings are essential via www.hawkesburylibrary.eventbrite.com or call 4560 4460.
Event details
Saturday 6 June, 10:30am – 12:30pm
FREE – Bookings essential
Visit Eventbrite or call 02 4560 4460 to register.
