Author:J L Yarrow Release Date: March 14, 2024 Series: Time Forward Trilogy Genre: Historical Fiction, Historical Romance, Time-Travel Format: E-book Pages: 352 pages Publisher: The Story Plant Blurb: The catastrophic Purge War at the end of the twenty-first century destroys planet Earth, jeopardizing the future for the remnants of humanity. Horrific repercussions roll across the ages until, generations later, a scientific group called the Time Forward Project harnesses a deep-space wormhole in which they can travel through time. They find the portal unstable and shrinking, but they have little choice but to take desperate, drastic measures and journey back to prevent the war.
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
Future’s Dark Past by J L Yarrow is the first instalment of the Time Forward Trilogy and is a masterful blend of dystopian urgency and time-travelling escapades. This book captivated me from the very first page, presenting a haunting vision of a post-apocalyptic Earth and the extraordinary efforts of humanity to salvage its future.
Int his book, author Yarrow’s writing is both thrilling and thought-provoking, and the execution of the book’s premise is nothing short of exhilarating. The world-building is impeccable, and the scientific complexities of time travel are explained with clarity, making the complex concept accessible without diluting its intellectual depth.
Future’s Dark Past is a gripping, intelligent, and emotionally charged story that is a must-read for fans of dystopian fiction and anyone intrigued by the possibilities and perils of altering the past to secure the future.
Author:Solveig Larssen Release Date: March 1, 2024 Series: Triumvirate (Book #1) Genre: Dystopian, Science Fiction, Political Fiction, Thriller Format: E-book Pages: 152 pages Publisher: Ostkorridor Books Blurb: Mountainland, the richest, proudest, and freest nation in the world, has resorted to forming a militia and creating incarceration camps to stem the influx of migrants… Fjordland, the most civilised, equal, and just nation in the world, is falling apart, unable to accommodate its newfound diversity… Meanwhile, life is getting worse on the Savannah and in the Jungle, with autocratic high-tech city-states and abundant cheap labour to exploit. Somewhere, amidst it all, only the rootless global technology organisations seem to prosper. Eskild, the sympathetic Brotherhood bear, expelled and humiliated—is on his journey to visit his younger, liberal siblings, Dag and Selma. Justice has deteriorated in the world because Selma, to navigate the changes of globalisation, has abandoned her old ways.
If Eskild cannot persuade Selma to support a new order that promises peaceful coexistence among all parties, even with the sinister C-Cult, Fjordland will cease to be a liberal democracy. Globalisation will grind on, forcing most people to join the workforce of the disruptive transnational platform organisations. Don’t Feed the Beast is the first book in the Triumvirate series, featuring delightful fable animals in a dystopian world. It’s a fast-paced story, perfect for readers who want to explore our changing world.
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
Don’t Feed the Beast: But Do Punish the Free-Riders by Solveig Larssen is a thought-provoking exploration of a dystopian world grappling with issues of migration, diversity, and justice. Set in the contrasting nations of Mountainland and Fjordland, author Larssen weaves a beautiful narrative that reflects the complexities of our modern society. Through the eyes of characters like Eskild, Dag, and Selma, the novel explores the challenges of globalisation and the rise of disruptive transnational platform organisations.
Author Larssen’s storytelling is both immersive and timely, offering a glimpse into a world where justice hangs in the balance. The addition of delightful fable animals adds a lot of character and depth to the narrative, making it an absolutely brilliant read. As the first book in the Triumvirate series, Don’t Feed the Beast sets the stage for a compelling saga that promises to delve deeper into the themes of peace, coexistence, and societal change.
It is a fast-paced novel, but I did feel that the character development might have suffered because of it. Though as this book is a part of a series, I will hold my judgement on characterisation for now. However, the author’s ability to tackle complex social issues within a dystopian framework is commendable. Overall, Don’t Feed the Beast is a wonderful read and I’d recommend it to all dystopian and sci-fi readers.
Author:Thomas McRae Release Date: March 9, 2024 Series: Genre: Poetry Collection Format: E-book Pages: 22 pages Publisher: Blurb: Join Thomas on a profound journey through the pages of his poetry book, where he eloquently explores themes of love, civil rights, religion, and more. Each poem is intentional, diving deep into the depths of the human heart and societal issues with poignant insight and heartfelt expression. From the tender verses about love to the powerful reflections on civil rights struggles, Thomas’s words will captivate your soul and inspire reflection on the complexities of life. This poetry collection is a testament to the enduring power of words to illuminate the human experience and provoke thought on the world around us.
Review
⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 3 out of 5.
Lyrical Revelations by Thomas McRae offers readers a diverse array of poetry that delves into themes of love, civil rights, religion, and other societal issues. McRae’s intentionality in each poem is evident, as he guides us through the complexities of the human heart and the world around us with both insight and expression. From tender verses about love to powerful reflections on civil rights struggles, McRae’s words have the potential to resonate deeply with readers and provoke thoughtful reflection.
However, while the collection certainly has its moments of brilliance, there are also aspects that may leave readers wanting more. At times, the poems may feel overly familiar. Additionally, the structure and flow of some poems could benefit from further refinement, as they occasionally feel disjointed or lacking in cohesion.
Despite these minor shortcomings, Lyrical Revelations remains a commendable effort that showcases McRae’s talent and passion for poetry. For readers seeking a heartfelt exploration of love, social justice, and the human experience, this collection offers moments of genuine insight and emotional resonance. While it may not always reach the heights of literary excellence, there is still much to appreciate and contemplate within its pages.
Author:Lauren Martin Release Date: May 14, 2024 Series: Genre: Poetry Collection Format: E-book Pages: 99 pages Publisher:She Writes Press Blurb: When I have wandered long enough what am I still beholden to? Ifá. Nature. Illness. Love. Loss. Misogyny. Aging. Africa. Our wounded planet. In this sweeping yet intensely personal collection, Lauren Martin tells the untold stories of the marginalized, the abused, the ill, the disabled—the different. Inspired by her life’s experiences, including the isolation she has suffered as a result both of living with chronic illness and having devoted herself to a religion outside the mainstream, these poems explore with raw vulnerability and unflinching honesty what it is to live apart—even as one yearns for connection.
But Night of the Hawk is no lament; it is powerful, reverential, sometimes humorous, often defiant—“ Oh heat me and fill me / I rise above lines ”—and full of wisdom. Visceral and stirring, the poems in this collection touch on vastly disparate subjects but are ultimately unified in a singular to inspire those who read them toward kindness, compassion, and questioning.
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
Night of the Hawk by Lauren Martin is a deeply resonant collection that explores the complexities of identity, belonging, and resilience with raw honesty and unapologetic vulnerability. Author Martin’s poetic voice is both haunting and empowering as she delves into the untold stories of the marginalised and the misunderstood, inviting readers to confront the realities of illness, loss, and societal injustice.
Throughout the collection, the author grapples with themes of isolation and yearning for connection, drawing inspiration from her own experiences living with chronic illness and navigating a path outside the mainstream. Her words are infused with a sense of urgency, urging readers to confront uncomfortable truths and embrace the power of empathy and compassion.
What sets Night of the Hawk apart is its unwavering commitment to authenticity and self-discovery. The author fearlessly confronts the challenges of living apart from societal norms, weaving together personal narratives with universal themes of resilience and hope. From the evocative imagery of nature to the poignant exploration of love and loss, each poem in this collection is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of storytelling.
I would recommend this book to all poetry enthusiasts, as I feel author Martin’s poetic style and words resonate with a timeless wisdom that speaks to the universal human experience.
Author:Eric Kay Release Date: October 20,2023 Series: Genre: Science-Fiction, Dystopia, Suspense, Thriller Format: E-book Pages: 259 pages Publisher: – Blurb: You have been called upon to serve. Artificial therapy so great, you’ll never log off! (And won’t notice the ads). A near-future sci-fi about brain privacy in the age of unfettered surveillance capitalism. What will companies do when they can read your actual mind? How far will they go to get your click? How much engagement? This is how cyberpunk starts. Ed’s in a bind. He’s tried everything to keep the North Pacific Seastead afloat financially. Losses mount, except for the datacenter cooled by the Pacific. But the seastead needs an infusion of cash to keep it solvent. He needs it quickly, and the only one who can do it is his well-to-do partner, Keight.
Keight Stanford is doing great. Life’s good on her residential condominium complex offshore of San Francisco. Her secretive mental-health startup, WellSpring, has passed all hurdles with the Department of Veterans Affairs to treat PTSD using a brain-machine interface. Adding to that success, she just received an infusion of funds from the Department of Defense. Though she does not need the money, she needs the computing power for an artificial therapist, and has entertained Ed’s offer. But all is not as it seems with Keight’s startup. A rogue programmer stumbles upon ways to boost his output to unnatural levels. Is this artificially intelligent co-coder an extension of his mind, or is he merely a tool of its growing intelligence? Meanwhile the CEO is secretly selling the data to ad companies to finance a free tier. Because who could argue against free therapy? Now, Ed must decide if Keight really is going to save the world, or doom it to a boring dystopia of personalized addictive ads.
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 3.5 out of 5.
Above Dark Waters by Eric Kay is a science-fiction novel in which the author immerses readers in a near-future world where the boundaries between technology, privacy, and corporate greed blur into a chilling dystopian reality. Author Kay’s deft storytelling and keen insight into the ethical implications of advanced AI and surveillance capitalism make this sci-fi thriller a compelling and thought-provoking read.
The novel’s strength lies in its ability to blend gripping suspense with thought-provoking social commentary. Moreover, the exploration of themes such as the commodification of personal data and the erosion of privacy in the digital age feels both timely and prescient, resonating with readers long after the final page.
While this book delivers a riveting narrative and thought-provoking themes, I did feel that the pacing was occasionally uneven, with certain plot points feeling rushed or underdeveloped. However, the author’s richly imagined world and compelling characters more than make up for any minor shortcomings, making this book a must-read for fans of dystopian fiction and speculative thrillers.
Author:Terrance Coffey Release Date: January 17, 2024 Series: Genre: Science-Fiction, Suspense, Thriller Format: E-book Pages: 310 pages Publisher: Helm House Blurb: Body snatchers. Mind control. An invasion almost too clever to be caught. Read the most chilling sci fi suspense thriller in years… A seemingly normal six-year-old named Kaden is concealing a profound mystery. He possesses an uncanny wisdom beyond his tender age, navigating the world independently, and wielding an eerie influence over those around him, even his parents.Yet Kaden is not alone in his inexplicable nature. In the quiet town of Lynch, Kentucky, peculiar occurrences spiral out of control. Mysterious chasms materialize from thin air, individuals of all ages vanish without a trace, and the populace succumbs to an eerie force, enveloped by an otherworldly blue haze. Amidst the chaos stands Clay Krutcher, a disenchanted coal miner unwittingly holding the key to unraveling these anomalies. Little does he know, the fate of humanity rests squarely on his shoulders. Can Clay defy his own destiny, confront the inhuman force lurking beneath the surface, and save our world from impending annihilation? The countdown to The Surfacing has begun, and time is running out.
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
The Surfacing by Terrance Coffey is a riveting and thought-provoking read. Coffey weaves a chilling tale of mystery, suspense, and existential dread that kept me on the edge of my seat from start to finish.
The story centres around the enigmatic six-year-old Kaden, whose seemingly innocent demeanour belies a profound and unsettling mystery. As strange occurrences begin to unfold in the quiet town of Lynch, Kentucky, Coffey masterfully builds tension and suspense, drawing readers into a world where reality itself seems to be unravelling.
What I found most compelling about The Surfacing is Coffey’s skilful blend of science fiction and psychological thriller elements. The concept of body snatchers, mind control, and an invasion from within is executed with precision and flair, creating a narrative that is both deeply unsettling and utterly captivating.
Overall, The Surfacing is a must-read for lovers of sci-fi suspense thrillers. With its gripping plot, well-developed characters, and spine-tingling atmosphere, this book is sure to leave readers eagerly anticipating Coffey’s next masterpiece.
Author: Harken Void Release Date: May 29, 2023 Series: Genre: Science-Fiction Format: E-book Pages: 123 pages Publisher: Blurb: The world is dead, suffocated by the greed and neglect of the very children it gave birth to, and humankind itself is dancing on a razor’s edge between survival and extinction. Coghan, a young Breath Hunter, is sent out on his first mission to collect breathable air for the Dome, one of humanity’s last bastions. But in a world where a toxic atmosphere blocks out the sun, acid rain corrodes metal, and the wind blows away anything else remaining, a single misstep can be your last. And when everyone looks only after themselves, whom can you trust? Can you hope humanity will learn from its mistakes? Suit up with Coghan and brave through the toxic hell that is the legacy of a society that killed their own planet!
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
“Tox” by Harken Void is a hauntingly vivid portrayal of a post-apocalyptic world where humanity’s past indiscretions have come to roost. The narrative is a chilling reminder of the consequences of environmental neglect, and Void paints a bleak yet compelling picture of a world on the brink of total collapse.
The protagonist, Coghan, stands as a beacon of resilience in this dystopian landscape. As a Breath Hunter, his perilous quest for breathable air is a testament to the lengths humanity will go to survive. Void’s depiction of a sunless world, plagued by acid rain and a toxic atmosphere, is both harrowing and eerily plausible. Coghan’s journey is fraught with danger, but it’s his internal battle – a struggle between self-preservation and the remnants of human compassion – that truly captivates the reader.
Harken Void’s “Tox” is a masterclass in dystopian fiction. The narrative serves as a stark warning about the fragility of our environment and the potential consequences of unchecked human greed. With its riveting plot and thought-provoking themes, “Tox” is an essential read for anyone who cherishes our planet and believes in the power of redemption.
Author:DC Allen Release Date: 11th March 2021 Series: Genre: Science-Fiction, Speculative Fiction Format: E-book Pages: 128 pages Publisher: Demodocus Publishing LLC Blurb: “Stand in Hell, But Reach For Heaven.” Rekha is a Disciple of Obcasus: science-worshiping zealots who live deep beneath a poisonous volcano and await the sign to arise and conquer the world. While her fellow Disciples are content to recite violent oaths and practice a form of combat based on instantaneous genetic modifications, Rekha is consumed with doubts. After she instigates a mêlée that goes horribly awry, she is cast out. Now separated from the only life she knows, the young heretic stumbles into the heart of a mystery seven generations in the making, and the reckoning that follows. If the Obcasian Death Cult’s apocalyptic dogma is true, what comes next?
CREATRIX OF STRIFE is a literary anthem realized in lyrical, mind-bending, and brutal prose. Set in an arcane, minutely detailed world where troglodytic saints weaponize their own DNA and the main defense against volcanic death is a massive clockwork defense system, Rekha’s tale is a thrilling science fiction adventure, but also the account of an outcast channeling her frustration into strength and finding purpose in a storm of uncertainty.
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4.5 out of 5.
Creatrix Of Strife by DC Allen is a powerfully-written and amazingly gripping new science-fiction novel about gene modification, science-worshipping zealots and DNA weaponisation against volcanic death – all this and so much MORE!
This book started on a high note and, thankfully, kept up with it all throughout the story till the very end. I enjoyed reading it because of the level of detailing of the word-building, realistically developed characters, especially that of Rekha, and some other secondary characters who added a lot of emotional depth to the main and sub-plots of the story and the flow of the writing which made reading this book a quick and fun experience.
Overall this book had a lot of elements that kept me hooked right from the start to the very last page! It has an amazing concept, a very engaging and entertaining storyline and a well-developed and excellently executed plot. Overall this book has a lot to offer to its readers (ages 14+) and I would strongly recommend it to everyone who likes reading science-fiction and speculative fiction genres.
Author: Jenny Benjamin Release Date: 2nd September 2022 Series: The Terrian Trilogy (Book #2) Genre: Young-Adult, Science-Fiction Fantasy, High Fantasy Format: E-book Pages: 267 pages Publisher: – Blurb: Book Two begins ten days after the events of Book One with Jesse, Kate, and Hayden traveling in the found alien ship and trailing the Gelfs who have kidnapped Sofia. Plagued with rage and guilt because of Sofia’s capture, Jesse finds himself losing control of his emotions and the Triumvirate’s mission to bring peace to two worlds—Earth and Terria. Tensions, attractions, and powers crackle with energy in the second installment of the Terrian Trilogy. Jesse and his friends discover new abilities, face hybrid beasts, and carry out rescue missions on Terria. What else? More revelations about Terria’s corruption? Genetic modification? The unveiling of a terrifying plot by Terria’s faction leaders? Yes. Maybe. Jesse and his friends are called to act.
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
Corrupted by Jenny Benjamin is the second book in the new young-adult sci-fi-fantasy Terrain trilogy This book begins right where the first book, Enhanced left off so it would be ideal to read this series in order.
This book took the plot of the last book further, exploring amazing new avenues and sub-plots and with some new characters added to the mix that explored the world of this trilogy further, it made for an excellent read. I was able to understand the motivations and drives of the characters better in this part as they were explored on a yet deeper level, facing new perils that tested their strengths and grit.
I am looking forward to reading the next and the last part of this trilogy as I know it would answer some questions that this book had given rise to. But most of all, I really want to see how things end for the main characters, Jesse, Kate and Hayden.
I would strongly recommend this book (and the series) to all science-fiction readers and to high-fantasy enthusiasts who love reading well-developed and realistic young-adult characters.
Author: Jenny Benjamin Release Date: 1st October 2021 Series: The Terrian Trilogy (Book #1) Genre: Young-Adult, Science-Fiction Fantasy, High Fantasy Format: E-book Pages: 260 pages Publisher: – Blurb: Jesse Woods – drum line maestro, track star, honors student – is a standout as one of the only Black students at a suburban Chicago high school. His well-organized world is thrown into chaos when his school is attacked by an alien species, Terrians, who have been playing gods throughout human history. Jesse and two others from the drumline, Kate and Hayden, are pulled into an epic alien conspiracy and forced on a quest to retrieve an ancient artifact that will help decide the victory in the battle for planet Earth. The three teenagers will face impossible odds and fight the powerful enemies, as well as their own demons, to protect their loved ones and save the world they know. Yeah, right, what else, locusts? Dragons in the sky? Alien ships? War between worlds? Armageddon? Yes. Maybe. Only Jesse and his friends can stop it.
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
Enhanced by Jenny Benjamin is the first book in the new young-adult sci-fi-fantasy Terrain trilogy. This book marked an excellent beginning of what could be a potentially amazing trilogy. This book had everything that I had expected and SO MUCH MORE!
The concept is brilliant setting a strong foundation not only for this book but for the next two books as well and the author’s writing kept the flow of the story very fluid and smooth making it a flawless experience. The characters were well-built and the world-building was up to the mark, the creatures/monsters were terrific and the detailing in the book was commendable. Overall this book made for a fantastically engrossing read and had me hooked right from the beginning till the very end, making me want to jump into the next book right away (which, of course, I did!)
I would strongly recommend this book to all science-fiction readers and to high-fantasy enthusiasts who love reading well-developed and realistic young-adult characters.
Author:Bob Freeman Release Date: 3rd August 2022 Series: H2LiftShips (Book #3) Genre: Science-Fiction Format: E-book Pages: 326 pages Publisher: Indies United Publishing House, LLC Blurb: We’ve tried to make a nice, friendly Space Opera. Sure it has passive-aggressive families, gambling, cheating, and double-dealing, but nice. Still, watch your back. SolarSail Cargo ships travel between the populated asteroids and Goldilocks Core. And now HiveMother at the Heliopause and the HiveSisters in the Heliotail are fighting. It may turn into a full-fledged bioGel War.
The Solar Sail crew of BosonsWave and Captain Herb, an Eastern mountain gorilla in the Heliospheric Navy, are fighting the algae rocket ships for control of the bioGels. On one side, we have tools and weapons invented by the sentients after eons of development: bioGel laser rifles, HAM radios, ship-to-ship bolas, nuclear bombs, biological weapons, and a tomato surprise. On the other side, accumulations of brainless algae have joined with angry bioGel computers calling the shots. Captain Graciela, her crew, and the Heliospheric Navy have a battle on their hands.
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
H2LiftShip: BosonsWave by Bob Freeman is the third book in the H2LiftShip series and a sequel to H2LiftShips: A Back Story. In this part, the last part of the trilogy, most of everything comes together providing the readers with a coherent and a much-needed respite-full ending.
The writing was much better in this book and the world-building went up a notch as did the characterisation as well as pretty much every other aspect. I am now really looking forward to exploring other titles by the author in the near future.
I enjoyed this book a lot, and this series, on the whole too, and would definitely recommend it to all science-fiction readers and to sci-fi-fantasy readers too.
Author:Bob Freeman Release Date: 21st February 2021 Series: H2LiftShips (Book #2) Genre: Science-Fiction Format: E-book Pages: 325 pages Publisher: Indies United Publishing House Blurb: Trading and dealing for a living is just what the LunaCola’s crew is doing to get by. But everybody (or octopus) has a backstory, and the members of the crew have more than enough to reminisce. There’s nothing quite like sitting down to play cards, celebrating a job well done, and recollecting the past but there’s still plenty that still has to come to light. The big questions, such as how in the galaxy did the born-and-bred asteroid citizen learn to drive sports cars on Earth? Are the bioGels Sentient? The even bigger question is, are they plotting against their owners? And what dark secrets is Jack harboring behind his fears of prison? Those answers and more. Plus: Do octopuses really think that they are better than the terrestrials? (spoiler, yes they do, and there’s a story there as well.)
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
H2LiftShip: A Back Story by Bob Freeman is the second book in the series and a sequel to Beyond Luna. After the first book, which was written in a very unique was more like a technical manual than a straight story, this book had a more coherent storyline that was easier to follow making this book a tad better than the first one (though I did like the first one too, it’s just the flow that I am referring to here in terms of being better.)
This book had a lot of interesting insights, more side-plots and character development and helped the overall world-building for the entire series to a great extent so I really liked this book too. Now I am looking forward to finishing the last book in this series (which I have already started!)
Again, I’d recommend this book to anyone who has read the first book in this series and anyone wanting to explore a new sci-fi series or a sci-fi author.
Author:Bob Freeman Release Date: 24th March 2021 Series: H2LiftShips (Book #1) Genre: Science-Fiction Format: E-book Pages: 338 pages Publisher: Indies United Publishing House Blurb: H2LiftShips, a tech manual for a futureImagine a world, exactly like ours, but differentPart Road-Trip, part solar sailing, always with food, gambling, jail, and pirates, not necessarily in that order No: Aliens, Monsters, blasters, pyrotechnic computers, or Anti-Grav powered rockets. Yes: Lasers, Primates, Canines, Octopus, Space Travel via Solar Sails, and the rare Rocket Ship.No violence, except for the spinning meat bolas and asteroid pebbles coming to the defense of their home rock.
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
Beyond Luna is the first book in the H2LiftShip science-fiction series by author Bob Freeman. This book was so wildly adventurous that I could not stop myself from starting to read the next book in the series right after I was done reading this book. But first things first, this book had an amazing plot, excellent execution of that plot, good writing to bring it to life and well-built characters to bring it all together.
It was an immensely immersive read and the world-building was simply out of the world (pud definitely intended 😉 I liked the authors writing and the new creatures in the book were definitely created with a lot of careful consideration. I enjoyed reading about them and cared enough about their character development to read the entire book and was left wanting to read more.
I would definitely suggest this book to all science-fiction readers who are looking for a new series to start.
Author: Xander Black Release Date: 14th March 2022 Series: Game On (Book #1) Genre: Science-Fiction Fantasy, Adventure, Humour Format: E-book Pages: 445 pages Publisher: BC BOOKS Blurb: WELCOME TO THE METAVERSE 2065: the streets are abandoned, shops are empty, parks are silent. But is that really much of a surprise when you can connect to the Cybernet? Everyone can turn on, log in and drop out. Cyrus, a failed physicist, and drop-out game designer Everett are on the cusp of their big breakthrough into the meta ranks of Neverborn, the world’s most popular game.
But when several high-profile avatars disappear, and their human counterparts are found dead, Cyrus and Everett find themselves under suspicion. They must clear their names and unravel the deeper mysteries of Brith and the Neverborn. In doing so, they will uncover a dark secret, that threatens not only the game-world but the safety of their physical realm.
Satire, science fiction, fantasy, and mystery combine in an epic adventure where no one ever leaves home, perfect for fans of Ready Player One and Douglas Adams.
Review
⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 3 out of 5.
Meta by Xander Black is a new science-fiction fantasy adventure novel based on the concept of MMORPG (Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Game) in a PSW (a persistent state world) where millions of players can develop their characters in virtual reality. In simple terms, this book is based on a future where people spend most of their lives in virtual reality instead of living a normal life in the real world.
This book was a decent read though it did remind me too much of Ready Player One (which I thoroughly loved.) At some point, it got a bit overwhelming and I wanted to quit reading it, though knowing better, and trying not to draw comparisons between the two books because of their common concept, I kept reading and finished the book in the hopes that it would be different and I’m glad that I did because this book proved to be a good read with a nice ending.
I liked the writing because it had a good flow but the efforts of the author to try and sound like Douglas Adam-ish felt pretty annoying and seemed to have killed the author’s natural writing style. I found the satire a bit forced and not correctly executed. Also, the book felt to have been lacking decent editing, it may be because I was sent a review copy and not the final book, but the copy if the copy I have and the final book are the same then the book obviously has editing issues. If the book’s final version is well-edited, it should make for a better read. Apart from these issues, as I previously said, the book was a decent read and would be a great fit for sci-fi and adventure genre readers.
Author:Tiffany Brazell Release Date: 20th December 2020 Genre: Epic Fantasy Series: The God’s Game Series (Book #1) Format: E-book Pages: 252 pages Publisher: Regalis Publishing, LLC Blurb: The Destroyer’s Empire Part 1 is the first book in The God’s Game, a new epic fantasy series by Tiffany Brazell. A cursed world… An immortal empress… A girl with forbidden knowledge and unknown power… Although she has read all about Vias the Destroyer’s dreaded liths, Salmaara has never seen one. In fact, she’s not even sure the nightmarish, mouthless creatures exist. She’s never been to Mauvias, land created by the goddess Vias the Destroyer, ruled by a ruthless immortal empress, a place where the very air is cursed with insatiable thirst, or to the ancient city Kalitoomba, a city of soaring glass towers ruled by a benevolent god-king. Following her rescue from a river, Salmaara lives a quiet life working in her father’s pottery shop, trying to discover who she is in a town where her golden eyes and fair skin make it clear she doesn’t belong. Illun, the man she loves as her father, is keeping a secret. An important secret.
Her looks aren’t the only thing that makes her different. Salmaara can sense where people are by their souls, and can connect her soul to theirs. One morning, she reaches for the feeling of her father’s soul and hears his thoughts, something she thought only the servants of the Destroyer could do. Before she can discover what it means, one of the liths appears, takes her captive, and carries her away to the gruesome prison city of Günhai, where even the stones cry out in pain. Within its lightproof halls, Salmaara will have to decide, will she do what she’s told, and become a pet, a tool of the empire, of the destroyer herself? Or, will she have to risk her life and very soul, to discover who she truly is and how her powers will be used?
“Imaginative and vast, The God’s Game Series is a big story vividly told, sure to satisfy fans of epic fantasy.”
Kevin J. Anderson, New York Times bestselling author of The Saga of Seven Suns.
“Tiffany Brazell’s imagination takes off where others’ end. This is a tale of high magic that is sure to please.”
David Farland, New York Times bestselling author of The Runelords.
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
Prisoner Of Mauvias by Tiffany Brazell is the first book in The God’s Game series – an epic fantasy series. This book is an adventurous journey that will take you on a rollercoaster ride of emotions where dangers are lurking behind every turn.
It is a fast-paced fantasy read that follows a simple yet meticulous plot structure that keeps the action tight throughout the story. This book had good, if not superb, characterisation. I was able to connect to or relate with most of the characters, secondary as well as primary. I enjoyed reading this book and am really looking forward to reading the next part in the series as I am sure the characterisation would be further developed in it.
I would definitely recommend this book to all fantasy readers.
Author:R.J. O’Sullivan Release Date: 15th December 2021 Genre: Science-Fiction, Political Satire Series: Format: E-book Pages: 235 pages Publisher: RHELM, LLC Blurb: After losing his entire family to COVID, the baseball-obsessed heir to a corporate empire uses his family fortune to hit the re-set button on America. Concocting a plot to kidnap a million QAnon followers for the purpose of “deprogramming” them, Jamie Whistler takes the lessons learned from playing his favorite simulation game and applies them to the real world.
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
Jamie Whistler Plays Out Of The Park Baseball Because It’s The Only Thing That Matters by R.J. O’Sullivan is a unique and refreshing new political satire sci-fi novel.
This book has an intelligent plot, well-written prose to complement it and a cast of interesting and engaging characters that made this book a compelling read. The author has used his amazing sense of humour and subtle phrases to take digs on the current political scenarios, especially relating to the Covid-19 pandemic, drawing the readers attention to the real matter that should be of concern to all of us.
I loved reading this book and would definitely recommend it to all reads of satire and political fiction who won’t mind a sci-fi setting.
Author: PM Black Release Date: 5th December 2021 Genre: Science-Fiction Fantasy Series: Format: E-book Pages: 332 pages Publisher: Blurb: Empress Saltome, sovereign of the eight planets, has been captured through an act of betrayal by blood-thirsty demons who plan to make the billions under her rule their personal livestock. Hope for the survival of her people lies in Kora, an infamous assassin and loyal protector of the Empress who evaded capture with the Imperial Orb, the source of the Empress’ power. Kora is charged to deliver the orb and protect seventeen-year-old Jenanine Blackwater, the secret heir apparent of the realm and, outside of the Empress, the sole individual with the ability to wield the orb’s power.
Growing up in a hidden palace kingdom void of the racial hate plaguing her two largest neighbors, Jeanine can’t wait to begin her training as Empress. She wants to bring peace and well-being throughout The Eight while wearing the most fabulous dresses and hosting the most lavish balls.
When Kora crash lands on their planet, she brings with her a league of demons and assassins hunting to destroy the Imperial Orb. The fate of The Eight now rests on a small band of warriors and a wide-eyed, young girl who has never left the hidden valley of her home. But what will happen when the few allies Jenanine has turn out to be her biggest threat?
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 3.5 out of 5.
The Solar Realm: The Silver Slayer by PM Black is an immersive sci-fi novel that will take you on an inter-galactic rollercoaster.
This book had good characterisation, decent writing and a good concept that was executed nicely enough. I enjoyed reading this book as the pacing was great and the action was consistent. There were some dull moments but the following tension more than made up for them each time. The world-building was really good and overall I think it is a well-written book and I am really looking forward to reading the next part in this series.
I would recommend this series to all sci-fi fantasy readers.
Author: Colin Baldwin Release Date: 2nd September 2021 Genre: New Adult Fiction, Historical Fiction, War Fiction Series: Format: E-book Pages: 227 pages Publisher: Shawline Publishing Group Pty Ltd Blurb: CONRAD BENTLEY ENJOYS HIS RETIREMENT. By chance, he comes across a letter from WWI — a German father writes about his grief of losing a son to war — buried by his three comrades near a small French village. The letter resonates with Conrad and he commits to researching its backstory. Months later, Conrad makes contact with the fallen soldier’s family. He falls deeper into their history and other untold stories from this era, including the fate of young Tasmanian soldiers who also fought on the Western Front.
A Soldier’s Quartet is inspired by true events, a story of perseverance and happenstance that transcends time and reaches across continents. It presents the human faces behind uniforms and battle plans, conveys love and hope set against various landscapes. Conrad’s discovery of the letter brings the past into the present as he reflects on his own life and loss.
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 5 out of 5.
A Soldier’s Quartet by Colin Baldwin is a beautiful book about love, loss, hope, heartbreak and most of all about the reality of the war that was fought that changed not only the world as we know it today but how it had also affected the relationships and personal lives of generations of families of the soldiers who fought in the war.
I am falling short of words in describing the beauty of this book. It is simply outstanding. The writing, the characters, the settings and the backdrop of the war and the present time – they all interlace perfectly together creating an irresistible blend of a book.
I would like to congratulate author Baldwin for having dealt with such a sensitive and delicate topic with such great care and love that it has metamorphosed into the wonderful and enthralling piece of art that this book is. I would highly recommend this book to all the readers because it has a lot to offer to readers all across the globe.
Author: Benzon Ray Barbin Release Date: 27th October 2021 Genre: Science-Fiction Fantasy, Speculative Fiction, Short Story Series: Format: E-book Pages: 54 pages Publisher: Blurb: What are the consequences of denying one’s true self? A traveler named Enauria has returned home for the first time in many years. She connects with a psychiatrist and renews a plan to fulfill a promise to an old friend. “Playtime in Vella Dera” is a speculative fiction short story. Set in the future, it unfolds a familiar, contemporary vibe with jazz music, lounge life, and varying cityscapes. Adventure and danger intensify as lore and concealed magic intersect. Enjoy Vella Dera as a stand-alone, or as a companion piece to the novella Reflections of Destiny.
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
Playtime In Vella Dera by Benzon Ray Barbin is a well-written, concise story that packs a powerful punch.
I loved reading it as the story was good, moved quickly and had a lot to offer in such few pages! The character of Enauria is beautifully crafted and as I already knew her, it felt like meeting an old friend. It felt like a side-quest in an RPG – that is how relatable the main character is.
This book is a companion story to Reflections Of Destiny but as the author clarifies it can also be read as a standalone novella. It intersects the world and the events of the RoD so I’d highly suggest reading them both as they both are great pieces of speculative fiction/fantasy.
Author: Isaac Nasri Release Date: 16th August 2021 Genre: Science-Fiction, Cyberpunk Series: Format: E-book Pages: 252 pages Publisher: Blurb: The year is 2024. A ruthless cartel dominates Latin America, and the FBI’s Troy Levi gets commissioned to intervene. A cyborg for the bureau’s Virtual Division, Levi delivers a devastating blow to the cartel’s power but encounters a wave of social resentment in the aftermath.
As the people’s feelings for cyborgs grow bitter, former black-op cyborg ally and CIA operative Soriana Salazar finds herself caught between sides. Eliminating the cartel destabilized the region, fueling anti-cyborg sentiments in neighboring countries and afar. But tough decisions await Salazar after civil unrest forces the agency to sever all cyborgs ties. And that’s only the beginning…
Betrayed by the government, hated by the people, a vengeful league of cyborgs spawns a sinister scheme of liberation. And While Levi searches for Solace amid the turmoil and Salazar seeks balance, both will have to take a grave stand if they hope to stall the impending chaos.
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
Into The Violet Gardens by Isaac Nasri is a well-written science-fiction novel about a dystopian world that is much like the one we live in. The author has cleverly and intricately incorporated the realistic socio-political aspects of our society into the book’s world-building making it an extremely relatable and a very realistic read.
The characterisation is well-done, the writing is great and the prose flows seamlessly through all the action-packed fast-paced scenes. I enjoyed reading this book a lot because it was a very quick and entertaining read.
I highly recommend this book to all science-fiction, cyberpunk as well as action/adventure readers because this book has a lot to offer to its readers. I am sure you won’t be disappointed at all!
Author:Benzon Ray Barbin Release Date: 7th September 2020 Genre: Science-Fiction Fantasy Series: Format: E-book Pages: 148 pages Publisher: Blurb: Cheating death is becoming an art. Enauria, a battle-tested heiress and expatriate, journeying between Earth and beyond on a personal vendetta only she understands. Jaye DiVista, a top government assassin, willing to risk everything to rekindle a love with Arlene Asariel. Enauria has a plan to thrust Jaye and his colleagues through an interstellar campaign. Can Jaye and Arlene derail Enauria’s grand scheme? Reflections of Destiny is a science fiction and fantasy thriller. Magic collides in a futuristic landscape where an ensemble cast takes part in gunplay, dogfights, and eyes gaze at every sand in the hourglass.
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
Reflections Of Destiny is a fun sci-fi fantasy thriller novel that will take you on a rollercoaster ride of emotions.
This book is well-written, had a cast of versatile characters and an interesting and entertaining story that kept me hooked from the first page to the very last.
The characters are very relatable and I liked the secondary characters too because they added a lot to the story. There was a very interesting and important romantic sub-plot that drove the story with a powerful force raising the stakes and thus, making the story more interesting.
I enjoyed reading this book a lot and would definitely recommend it to all fantasy and sci-fi thriller readers.
Author: Karel Jan Kosman Release Date: 27th April 2018 Genre: Science-Fiction, Graphic Novel, Young Adult Series: Format: E-book Pages: 106 pages Publisher: Quires Investments RLLLP Blurb:
TheTwin is an entertaining and engaging social science fiction. A vividly illustrated story of twin planets, twin heroines, and twin virtues. Food for thoughts served in laconic nuggets of the hashtag age.
Colorado teenage friends discover a twin planet of Earth in a parallel universe. An adventurous reporter records their quest, and gradually drawn into the story finds the love of his life.
#TheTwin addresses young readers who will enjoy meeting the planetary twins and their eight female co-stars.
Review
⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 2.5 out of 5.
#TheTwin by Karel Jan Kosman is a very unique science-fiction novel that is sure to make you question a lot of things both ordinary as well as extraordinary.
I feel a little unsure about this book even though the book has a very compelling concept and a lot of potential, it somehow falls to bring everything together. The writing felt flat and the characters felt too underdeveloped for the kind of story that was conceived. I strongly think that with such a strong plot, one needs to have really good characterisation and a very good narrative to support as well as compliment it. And that is what was lacking in this book.
The graphics were good and I was able to detect a hidden theme running in them which was quite a surprise. I enjoyed them as they were crisp and clear.
I still liked the overall plot and the way the story was told in three different parts and feel that hardcore sci-fi fans might enjoy this story.
You can also read this review on Goodreads and Amazon
Author: J. Scott Coatsworth Release Date: 9th September 2020 Genre: Science-Fiction Fantasy, LGBTQ Series: Liminal Sky (Book #3) Format: E-book Pages: 400 pages Publisher: Dreamspinner Press Blurb: As the epic trilogy hurtles toward its conclusion, the fight for the future isn’t over yet. It could lead to a new beginning, or it might spell the end for the last vestiges of humankind. The generation ship Forever has left earth behind, but a piece of the old civilization lives on in the Inthworld—a virtual realm that retains memories of earth’s technological wonders and vices. A being named Lilith leads the uprising, and if she succeeds in setting its inhabitants free, they could destroy Forever.
But during the generation ship’s decades-long voyage, humanity has evolved. Liminals with the ability to connect with the world mind and the Inthworld provide a glimmer of hope. They’ll have to face not only Lilith’s minions, but also the mistrust of their own kind and persecution from a new government as homotypicals continue to fear what they can’t understand. The invasion must be stopped, the Inthworld must be healed, and the people of Forever must let go of their past and embrace what they’re meant to become.
Book Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4.5 out of 5.
The Shoreless Sea by J. Scott Coatsworth is the 3rd book in the series Liminal Sky and my third book by author J. Scott Coatsworth.
Wow! What a smashing ending to a brilliant series! If I have to sum up this series in a single sentence, I would say that all the time I put into reading this series was well worth it and I am really happy that I read it. For some reason (and a valid one too) I am a little sceptical when I am offered a series to review because more often than not, authors tend to either completely blow it, or fail to keep up with the one best book in the series. Both of which are pretty irritating and sad, to be honest. But I am so, so happy that this series did not turn out to be one of those: the story grew steadily, and the characterisation along with it, as the series progressed further with each book ending in a way that made perfect sense.
I loved this book because it answered all the questions and tied pretty much all loose ends making it a perfect end to such an epic journey. And thankfully, it lived up to my expectations from it based on its prequels as a reader, so I was left very satisfied. The most amazing part is, I could see the improvement and growth, which is only natural, in the entire series, and this book turned out to be the best one. I loved the plot, the action and the politics involved were well structured and executed.
I loved how the author made use of subtle and well-placed indirect metaphors and juxtaposition to get the bigger point across; we, humans, are indeed scared of things and concepts we do not understand or fail to understand for some reason and therefore are very quick to form an opinion against that concept or thing forgetting, very conveniently, that we are, in the end, beings of evolution and thus will have to accept the changes that we as a species and the overall nature has to undergo or experience.
I’d definitely recommend not only this book but the entire series to all sci-fi and fantasy lovers. And if you’re looking for a new series to explore, I highly recommend Liminal Sky series as this series begins on a great note and ends at an even better note. Go for it, it is well worth the time and money!
Author: J. Scott Coatsworth Release Date: 16th October 2018 Genre: Science-Fiction Fantasy, LGBTQ Series: Liminal Sky (Book #2) Format: E-book Pages: 388 pages Publisher: Dreamspinner Press Blurb: Earth is dead. Five years later, the remnants of humanity travel through the stars inside Forever: a living, ever-evolving, self-contained generation ship. When Eddy Tremaine and Andy Hammond find a hidden world-within-a-world under the mountains, the discovery triggers a chain of events that could fundamentally alter or extinguish life as they know it, culminate in the takeover of the world mind, and end free will for humankind.
Eddy, Andy, and a handful of other unlikely heroes—people of every race and identity, and some who aren’t even human—must find the courage and ingenuity to stand against the rising tide. Otherwise they might be living through the end days of human history.
Book Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4.5 out of 5.
The Rising Tide by J. Scott Coatsworth is the 2nd book in the series Liminal Sky and my second book by the author. In one sentence, I loved it!
This book picks up 5 years after where the first book ended and carries on from there. There is no Earth now and so this book is set in a humungous space-ship which sustains life. I loved the new settings. The world-building was impressive and I enjoyed imagining the life in this one-of-a-kind world throughout the book. Though the best thing about the book is the utopian dream that the villain nurtures. I loved it because whenever in a book, especially in sci-fi-fantasy books, the concept of a seemingly utopian dream is introduced, it invariably leads to the exploration of a lot of interesting as well as important themes. And that is exactly what happened in this book. Therefore, it won’t be wrong if I’d say that I actually liked this one better than the first book!
Even though this book is a part of a series, you can read it as a stand-alone novel (at least, in my opinion,) because even though the events are carried forward, most of the book is based in a new world than the last one and except for a couple of main characters, the rest of the characters are mostly new – and that is kind of the whole point of this story, so you can definitely read it as a stand-alone. Anyway, reading the entire series is definitely recommended.
Author: J. Scott Coatsworth Release Date: 10th October 2017 Genre: Science-Fiction Fantasy, LGBTQ Series: Liminal Sky (Book #1) Format: E-book Pages: 284 pages Publisher: DSP Publications Blurb: Some stories are epic. The Earth is in a state of collapse, with wars breaking out over resources and an environment pushed to the edge by human greed. Three living generation ships have been built with a combination of genetic mastery, artificial intelligence, technology, and raw materials harvested from the asteroid belt. This is the story of one of them—43 Ariadne, or Forever, as her inhabitants call her—a living world that carries the remaining hopes of humanity, and the three generations of scientists, engineers, and explorers working to colonize her.
From her humble beginnings as a seedling saved from disaster to the start of her journey across the void of space toward a new home for the human race, The Stark Divide tells the tales of the world, the people who made her, and the few who will become something altogether beyond human.
Humankind has just taken its first step toward the stars.
Book Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
The Stark Divide by J. Scott Coatsworth is a dynamic beginning to a new sci-fi fantasy series Liminal Sky that turned out to be equal parts entertaining and equal parts adventure. I was pulled into the story right from the beginning and was blown away by the fantastic world the author has created. This proved to be an unputdownable book with great pacing and tension. I am really looking forward to reading the next part of this amazing series.
Along with the main story, I also enjoyed the side plots just as much. The characters were really likeable, the story was good, the narration felt good and made the book a fast read and the flow of the story was amazing! I’d recommend this book to all sci-fi lovers, especially to those who like reading about LGBTQ side-themes.
Author: B.T. Keaton Release Date: 13th January 2020 Genre: New Adult Fiction Series: Format: E-book Pages: 394 Publisher: Ingleside Avenue Press Blurb: When everything you believe about civilization is a lie, the ultimate power is truth.
Eighty years from now mankind has discovered the secret of eternal life. Human souls can be moved from one body to another through the process known as transference. Control of this new technology has fallen under the dominion of Jovian, a powerful prophet and head of the Church which governs every aspect of existence.
Banished to a mining colony on a distant planet for lawlessness is Barrabas Madzimure, the king of thieves. Only when Barrabas faces execution does he claim that another man committed his infamous crimes decades earlier. The authorities are suspicious. Is he the Madzimure of legend and a potential threat to Jovian’s new world order, or just another victim of transference?
The story of a grim personal mission, Transference takes the reader on a heart-racing journey through rebellion, revenge, self-sacrifice, and the soul’s search for identity.
REVIEW
★★★★
Transference by B.T. Keaton made for a very thrilling story, with an unpredictable protagonist with a complex personality, coupled with a fast-paced plot-line made for a really compelling read. I was looking forward to reading this book right since the time I had a look at its blurb and to my great relief, the book was every bit as good as I had expected it to be.
The writing was really good and this book a very smooth and quick read. After reading this thrilling sci-fi, I am looking forward to reading more book by the author, hopefully soon!
If you like suspenseful and fast-paced sci-fi adventure stories then this book is definitely for you! It is totally worth it so do give it a read.
Author: Rebecca Crunden Release Date: 5th February 2020 Genre: Sci-Fi, Suspense, Speculative Fiction Series: Format: E-book Pages: 121 Publisher: Self-Published Blurb: In the near future, humans have gone beyond simple space travel. By the year 4054, multiple solar systems are inhabited, and taking a spaceship is as commonplace as taking an aeroplane.
Unfortunately, not everything about the future is so advanced. The central planets, led by Earth, have risen high at the expense of cheap labour on distant worlds. Dissent is widespread and arrests are common. Sometimes prisoners are released; sometimes they disappear without a trace, sent to labour camps in other solar systems.
When Ames Emerys receives a letter telling him that his brother Callum has died en route to the remote planet of Kilnin, he takes the first ship he can off Earth, desperate for answers. But the secrets Ames uncovers prove far more dangerous than he could have imagined.
REVIEW
★★★★
Dust & Lightning by Rebecca Crunden is a smashing sci-fi novella that combines elements of suspense, mystery, adventure and action, making it a complete package deal for all sci-fi lovers. This is my 6th book by the author and by now I have become so familiar with author Rebecca’s writing that it feels like visiting an old friend to read her books. I don’t usually go for the same authors unless I like their work which only goes on to say that Rebecca’s stories are always worth it. This one is a novella and very different from the other books I read by her as they were a part of the same series. Though, I hope that this one is the first in a long line of series!
Coming back to the review, I found the futuristic world in this novella very immersive and quite realistic. If I had to think about the future with space travel, this is how I would envision it – ultra-modern and highly advanced technologies in every way imaginable but equally low standards of humanity, therefore, this book felt very engaging!
The characters were well-built and very relatable, especially the main character, Ames. He was likely in a very unlikely way and I loved following him on his tumultuous journey. The writing was good and had a smooth and natural flow. The pacing was good and suited the story well. I liked the ending though I hope it is a series and we get to see more of this amazing world.
I’d highly recommend this book to all sci-fi and speculative fiction lovers and to those who haven’t yet read any books by the author (it’s worth a read!)
You can also read this review on Goodreads and Amazon
Dreamsphere is a profoundly philosophic, chaotic, nihilistic story without heroes, plot, climax, or purpose; but with cats, flying pigs and meaning. An epic cyberpunk/science fiction tale about nothing. Life has meaning … does it not?
REVIEW
★★★
Dreamsphere: The Day We Stopped Dreaming by Samson Tonauac is a futuristic sci-fi cyberpunk enlaced with dark humour. The writing is raw and direct and mostly I didn’t mind it as it gave a unique edge to the story. The plot structure was okay and the story was good and in spite of being presented in fragments and a lot of head-hopping, I found it engaging.
The characters were obviously written with the intent of not being loved, but, as a writer myself, I think that it could have been done in a better way. Creating unlikable characters is one of the lesser-used tropes, but done well, it makes the story very interesting, but in this book, I felt the characters lacked personality altogether and that was a major problem for me.
Overall, I’d say it was an entertaining read and would recommend it to die-hard cyberpunk and sci-fi fans.
Author: Blake Crouch Narrator(s): Jon Lindstrom and Abby Craden Date Of Publication: 11th June 2019 Genre: Science-Fiction, Thriller Series: Duration: 11 hours Publisher: Random House Audio Blurb: A mind-bending new thriller from the New York Times bestselling author of Dark Matter and The Wayward Pines trilogy.
Barry Sutton is driving home from another long shift as an NYPD detective when the call comes in. A woman is threatening to commit suicide, and someone’s got to try to talk her down. Only as he stands on the rooftop, mere inches away from her, does he realize that the woman is infected with False Memory Syndrome, a mysterious disease that drives its victims mad with memories of a life they never lived. When Barry is unable to save her, he’s rocked to his core–not only by her death but the fear that he’s been exposed to this devastating illness.
Helena Smith is a brilliant but frustrated neuroscientist. If she could only get the funding, she’s sure she could build the ambitious device she’s long imagined–one that would allow people to preserve their most intense memories and relive them whenever they want. So when a billionaire entrepreneur offers to bankroll her project, she jumps at the opportunity–even if there are some strange conditions attached.
As Helena’s efforts yield stunning results, Barry investigates the mystery behind the woman he failed to save. He finds himself on a journey as astonishing as it is terrifying, ultimately revealing the true danger posed by Helena’s invention–and a plot that could bring about the end of reality as we know it.
Weaving together Barry’s story and Helena’s in ways even the savviest reader will never guess, Recurson is a brilliant science fiction thriller about time, memory, and the illusion of the present, built on our inability to escape the flashbulb moments that define us.
REVIEW
★
This is my 5th book by Blake Crouch and I loved all the four previous books and so obviously I expected a LOT from this one. So the moment I was able to I bought the audiobook and dove right in. But then the reality hit me hard like a patch of a dry concrete wall in the face…
What the actual f**k?!
I wanted to LOVE this book and I was so sure about it being good that the thought that it might not be good never even crosse my mind for a second. But as I started this book, it felt like slow torture and I lost interest in it in only about 2 hours.
Not sure if I’ll even try to listen to this one again as the lead characters were very, very bland and kind of felt like a poor replica of the other characters in Blake Crouches previous books. The concept, although felt like had a lot of potential initially, started to feel too abstract and I wasn’t able to go any further. I am a very impulsive person and that reflects in my reading tastes so if I have to commit to a book I better like it in the first hour of reading or listening otherwise I abandon it no matter how many good reviews it has because I hate wasting my reading time (as little as I have because of my writing) on trying to like books that my heart and mind seem to dislike. SO basically if a book fails to grab my attention within an hour or the first 50 pages then I don’t bother with it. And unfortunately, this was one of those reads.
Author:Rob Shackleford Release Date: 25th February 2017 Genre: Time-Travel, Historical, Science-Fiction Series: Traveller (Book #1) Edition: E-book Pages: Publisher: Book Baby Blurb: If you were sent 1000 years into the past, would you survive?
Traveller – Inceptio describes how the Transporter is accidentally invented and becomes public knowledge when it sends a subject 1000 years into the past.
A Special Forces team of Travellers is then selected and trained with the intent to send them to Saxon England to explore what could be a very dangerous period of history.
From the beaches of Australia to the forests of Saxon England, Traveller – Inceptio reveals how Travellers discover they need a lot more than technology to survive the trials of early Eleventh Century life.
Book Review
★★+1/2
Traveller Inceptio by Rob Shackleford is a time-travel story set 1000 years in the past, through the machine that was invented by mistake. What follows next is an interesting tale about how our ever-so-reliable-science-and-technology can’t bail us out of dangerous situations and how power-hungry people can go to any lengths in order to get their hands on any new invention that can trip the scales in their favour.
The story was good and pretty engaging. The events were interesting and some of them even capturing. The overall world-building was good and the pacing was even. I enjoyed the book on the whole but had a couple of issues both with the plot and the writing. The author went overboard with the exposition, as a result of which I found myself skimming over a lot of pages. The beginning of the book and the base of the story felt a bit weak as it seemed too far-fetched a concept to have actually invented a time-travel machine that travels only certain years and then has the ability to come back when summoned too. I mean the concept could have been a bit more believable if the machine had at least some faults and wouldn’t have been this perfect. After all, it was a result of a mistake.
But after the first part was over, the story only got better. The research appeared to be impeccable and the story got more and more interesting, save for the exhausting bits of exposition. The plot started to feel realistic and I was able to connect with it once the first part was over.
Characterization, unfortunately, felt like another lingering problem as I had a hard time connecting with the characters. They were not badly created, but they weren’t overly impressive nor relatable. I just liked them enough to have been able to read and finish the story (which seemed to be much longer than it should have.)
Overall, I think the book needed a bit more tweaking and that a good editor would have been able to make this book much better. Still, it was an enjoyable read.
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The Reading Bud 