Energy executive turns debut novel into literacy fundraiser

British-born former energy executive Dr. David Horsup has released his debut YA fantasy novel, Circles – The Secrets of the Stones, on October 27, with proceeds helping fund a nonprofit that provides books and education to children in the Philippines. The book blends historical mystery and environmental themes with a larger goal of encouraging young readers to see themselves as agents of change.

Why it matters: - The book ties a commercial release to a literacy mission, with proceeds supporting Chapters of Change and its work for children in remote Philippine communities. - The novel is aimed at young readers and pairs adventure with themes of environmental responsibility, scientific curiosity and personal agency. - Chapters of Change says its mobile library program is currently reaching approximately 2,000 children weekly.

What happened: - Dr. David Horsup, a British-born Houston-based former energy technology executive, launched his debut YA fantasy novel, Circles – The Secrets of the Stones, on October 27, 2026. - The novel is available in eBook and paperback formats at launch. - A hardback edition is scheduled for November 13, and an audiobook is planned for early 2027. - The book is available through Amazon, with print distribution through IngramSpark.

The details: - Circles follows 16-year-old William and two companions after they discover a coded notebook and a glowing crystal in England’s New Forest. - The notebook belonged to a Cambridge professor who disappeared in 1843. - The story moves through ancient stone circles and historic landmarks before leading to a gateway into another world. - The novel includes five teachings that challenge the characters’ understanding of life, nature and humanity’s place in the universe. - The book is set against landscapes in Great Britain and Ireland, including Stonehenge, the New Forest, Cambridge, Suffolk villages, Ireland’s ancient monuments and Scotland’s Orkney Islands. - Horsup spent more than three decades in the energy industry, with leadership roles in technology, innovation and sustainability. - His later career included investments in emerging technologies aimed at addressing climate change. - The novel’s stated message is that the choices people make today shape the future of the planet. - Early reader Alistair Madle called the book "A thrilling adventure for readers of all ages… keeps you turning the pages… it's a story that stays with you long after you've finished. Highly recommended."

Between the lines: - Horsup is using the novel to extend a broader climate and sustainability message beyond his professional career. - The charity connection strengthens the book’s positioning as both a creative project and a practical fundraising vehicle. - The story’s mix of ancient history, science and fantasy appears designed to appeal to middle-grade and YA readers who respond to puzzle-driven adventure.

What’s next: - Horsup’s website, David Horsup, will continue highlighting climate change, breakthrough innovations and companies focused on a more sustainable future. - Readers can learn more about the literacy nonprofit at Chapters of Change. - Horsup says he is available for interviews, podcasts, book reviews and presentations.

The bottom line: - Circles – The Secrets of the Stones is being launched as more than a debut novel: it is a reader-facing story built to support literacy work and reinforce a message about making change early, and at any age.