Author: Richard French Release Date: 17 November 2025 Series: Convergence Series Genre: Dystopian, Speculative Fiction, Cyberpunk, Metaphysical Sci-Fi Format: E-book Pages: 393 pages Publisher: Indie Pen Press Blurb: In a world where emotions are harvested as hazardous waste, an elite Collector absorbs a child’s love—and awakens. Senior Collector Emma Thorne is the state’s most precise weapon until a four-year-old’s pure love fractures her conditioning. When her collection field fails on an immune stranger, everything she believes crumbles. Emma discovers the brutal truth: emotions aren’t waste—they’re living energy linked to planetary health, and the Council’s “peace” is killing the world. Her mother is the architect of suppression. Project Terminus will permanently sever human feeling within hours. For readers who devoured Delirium and The Giver, but crave the hard science and hope of Nexus. To save humanity, she must sacrifice everything she is to restore the world’s heart. Pre-order your copy now and be one of the first to discover what happens when the weapon learns to love.
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
The Emotion Collector: Awakening by Richard French blends science fiction, philosophy, and pure human emotion into something that defies easy categorization. It is an ambitious, multi-layered exploration of emotion, memory, morality, and what it truly means to feel.
The premise is instantly fascinating: in a world where emotions can be extracted, stored, and traded, one person begins to question whether humanity is losing the very thing that makes it human. But this isn’t just a cyberpunk “what if,” it’s a deeply reflective journey through consciousness, loss, and redemption. French uses his protagonist’s awakening as a mirror for all of us, how much of our inner life is ours to control, and how much is shaped by the systems we live within?
What makes the novel shine is its philosophical and psychological richness. French intertwines emotional introspection with speculative science, blurring the line between technology and spirituality. The world-building is subtle but effective, while the emotional undercurrents remain raw. Each supporting character feels like a fragment of the larger question the novel poses: can emotion exist without consequence, or is pain the price of depth?
Stylistically, The Emotion Collector: Awakening balances poetic introspection with crisp pacing. French’s prose has rhythm, with one moment meditative and the next sharp and cinematic. Thematically, it sits comfortably alongside works like Never Let Me Go by Kazuo Ishiguro or The Giver by Lois Lowry, but its voice is entirely its own, more speculative and abstract, with a touch of existential wonder.
The Emotion Collector: Awakening is a beautifully written exploration of emotion, consciousness, and control. This book offers both intellectual stimulation and emotional resonance, a rare and rewarding combination.
Author: David Morabito Release Date: 30 September 2025 Series: Genre: Format: E-book Pages: 269 pages Publisher: – Blurb: This novel continues where the Night of the Fisherman left off and is packed with suspense, fantasy, and romance as well as elements of science fiction with shrouded references to quantum physics. The characters are instantly transported between different realms in the cosmos using wormholes where the entry and exit ports are defined by clocks composed of mysterious substances. Each clock is the mirror image of the other, with each working backwards from the other. We follow the exploits of the intriguing dark character known as the Old Clock Peddler, who sells paired clocks to unsuspecting consumers in different worlds causing interesting and unexpected interactions between diverse populations of beings. All the while, the Peddler has mysterious interactions with the characters caught up in his intergalactic web of intrigue, which include Lexicon, the principality of Yore and the land of the Druids
Intrigue continues to follow two of the main characters from Night of the Fisherman, Fish (a.k.a. the Fisherman) and Kara in the 1950’s-1960’s suburban town of Lexicon. They along with other neighbors now have to contend with the power-hungry Surf, the surviving son of Poppa, who previously terrorized the local neighborhood and beyond. All the while, the character known as the dark Entity lurks about ready to do Surf’s bidding. A secret society in Lexicon known as the City Fathers anoints Surf as their new Boss in their quest to amass more power and wealth, after the death of Poppa. A shady slimy lawyer named McAlister Bilge aids Surf in his quest for more power and wealth. Other neighbors such as little Elmo get caught up in the intrigue as well as the old man Mr. Ages, now reunited with his long lost son after several decades, Tommy, who once served as King of Yore under the name of Twede. A host of new characters are introduced, including three college students, one of which believes he understands the physics of instantaneous intergalactic transport, while another desires Kara, the Fisherman’s girlfriend, to be his own. Frank Knightlite, a heroic figure in the small town of Lexicon, is known to shed light within the bowels of darkness. Aisling is a young Irish lass whose family got marooned in the strange world of mutated descendants of the Druids, courtesy of one of the Peddler’s wormholes. She gets rescued by the Fisherman and Frank Knightlite, who use a recently reestablished porthole to bring her back to Lexicon and eventually to that big green island across the sea to be united with her surviving relatives. Frank Knightlite has a clandestine encounter with Leena, the terrified and neglected young wife of Surf, in order to extract needed information from her. In the Kingdom of Yore, an ensuing power struggle is in the works as Renigade a wayward Elder had escaped the palace dungeon and seeks to solidify a power sharing pact with Surf. The small gnomish person Georgos contributes to the drama as he again is put into service by his dethroned king Twede, now known as Tommy Ages. Twede reunites with his love Tarala when the porthole between Lexicon and Yore is reestablished by the Peddler. It is later disclosed that Surf has an estranged brother who covets what Surf has and is determined to claim all that Surf inherited from Poppa as his birthright. Finally, the novel climaxes at the scene of the lake of fire, a huge cauldron-like depression in the planetary surface of Yore. Here, Surf plans to send his prisoners to their demise in the same way his Poppa attempted in the Night of the Fisherman. However, Surf does not count on having to contend with his brother as they confront each other near the precipice of the fiery lake, as the prisoners look on while the drama unfolds in unexpected and suspenseful ways.
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4.5 out of 5.
The Old Clock Peddler by David Morabito is an unapologetically ambitious novel that dares to blend genres, timelines, and entire worlds into a single, intricate story. It is a heady mix of fantasy, science fiction, suspense, and myth that asks what happens when the very fabric of time becomes a weapon in the wrong hands. Picking up after Night of the Fisherman, it expands that universe into something grander, stranger, and far more cosmic, where wormholes, quantum portals, and mirrored clocks connect realities that feel both familiar and fantastical.
The brilliance of the story lies in how author Morabito balances the ordinary and the extraordinary. One moment we’re in the 1950s suburbia of Lexicon, with neighbors feuding and secret societies pulling strings; the next, we’re swept into Yore, a world of Druids, monarchs, and celestial intrigue. At the heart of it all is the enigmatic Old Clock Peddler, a merchant of fate who trades in time itself, selling paired clocks that open portals between realms. His motives remain tantalizingly ambiguous, and that ambiguity fuels the novel’s haunting energy. What makes it even more fascinating is the undercurrent of quantum theory, not just as science, but as philosophy, questioning whether actions in one reality can truly be separated from another.
Returning characters like Fish (the Fisherman) and Kara anchor the story emotionally, while newcomers like Frank Knightlite, Aisling, and Leena add texture and momentum. Author Morabito writes with cinematic vision: his worlds shimmer with contrast, from suburban intrigue to interplanetary warfare, yet he never loses sight of the emotional threads laced with loyalty, love, and the eternal struggle for power.
By the time the story barrels toward its climax at the fiery lake of Yore, it feels like watching mythology and physics collide as it gets unpredictable, charged, and strangely moving. The Old Clock Peddler isn’t a light read; it’s sprawling, layered, and packed with ideas. But for readers who love universe-spanning sagas and thoughtful science-fantasy with heart, this book offers a rare kind of satisfaction, the sense of stepping into a world both ancient and ahead of its time.
Author:Richard French Release Date: 8 July 2025 Series: Part of: The Convergence Series (2 books) Genre: Speculative Fiction Format: E-book Pages: 530 pages Publisher: Indie Pen Press Blurb: When reality fractures, love becomes the ultimate weapon. Engineer Samantha Reed’s perfectly ordered world explodes the night golden light erupts from her hands. Across the city, artist Connor Blake watches impossible shadows flow from his sculptures, defying every law of physics. Neither understands that these abilities mark them as living echoes of souls who died 150 years ago—souls who sacrificed themselves to save reality itself. Now reality is breaking again. Cosmic forces write aurora patterns across daylight skies. Reality storms tear through populated sectors. And the zealous Williams organization deploys weapons designed to destroy souls so completely that no form of existence—not even reincarnation—would survive.
But Samantha and Connor are more than just targets. They’re the key to completing a restoration that was interrupted a century and a half ago. As shared dreams and inexplicable compulsions draw them together, they discover their connection transcends this lifetime—and that their growing love might be the only force powerful enough to heal wounds carved into the fabric of existence itself. The hunt is closing in. Reality won’t wait. And some bonds are stronger than death. Margaret Carter, guardian of forbidden historical knowledge, races to reach them before the Williams assassins strike. Emergency coordinator Nina Reyes struggles to protect civilians as magical disasters escalate beyond all containment. And deep in classified archives, evidence emerges that everything the magical authorities believe about unified consciousness—and the couple who wields it—is catastrophically wrong. In this breathtaking sequel to The Convergence: Broken Magic, two souls separated by lifetimes must choose between individual survival and cosmic salvation. Their victory heals the broken reality around them, letting them become guides for a restored world while keeping both their love and their lives.. Perfect for readers who loved The Ten Thousand Doors of January, The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue, and The Priory of the Orange Tree. ⭐ Enemies-to-lovers across family bloodlines ⭐ Reincarnated soulmates with preserved memories ⭐ Contemporary fantasy with hidden magical history ⭐ Engineer meets artist in a love story that could heal the universe ⭐ Complex worldbuilding with philosophical depth Some missions transcend individual authority. Some love transcends time itself.
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
The Convergence: Restoration by Richard French is the sequel to The Convergence: Broken Magicand it doesn;t just continue the story, it deepens it, revealing new dimensions that make you see the first book in an entirely new light. Picking up after Broken Magic, it expands the series’ universe in breathtaking ways, weaving together romance, philosophy, and speculative science into a narrative that feels as intimate as it is cosmic.
At its heart are Samantha and Connor, two people drawn together by forces older than memory itself. What begins as a story of survival quickly evolves into something much larger, a meditation on destiny, choice, and the enduring power of connection across lifetimes. Author French balances these high-concept ideas with brilliant emotional balance; the bond between his leads feels real and raw, even as they face realities that bend time, physics, and spiritual law. It’s that balance, between the epic and the personal, that gives Restoration its resonance.
What truly stands out for me is the philosophical depth behind the fantasy. French explores the nature of consciousness and love not as abstractions but as forces capable of reshaping existence itself. The supporting characters serve as lenses through which the reader witnesses the clash between old magic and new understanding. The world-building is rich and intricate, but never overwhelming; it feels like stepping into a grand, hidden architecture of reality that’s slowly being restored, one choice at a time.
By the time the story reaches its climax, The Convergence: Restoration becomes not just a tale of two soulmates but a story about collective healing, about how connection, compassion, and memory can literally rebuild the broken. It’s equal parts thrilling, tender, and thought-provoking, the kind of speculative fiction that stays with you long after you close the book.
The Convergence: Restoration is a sweeping, emotional, and intellectually satisfying sequel that fuses science, magic, and love into something transcendent. it is perfect for readers who adored The Ten Thousand Doors of January or The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue, and for anyone drawn to stories where love isn’t just a feeling but a force of creation.
Author: A. D. Griffey Release Date: March 25, 2025 Series: Genre: Steampunk Fantasy, Dystopian Fiction, Science-Fantasy, Alternate History, Young-Adult, Coming Of Age Format: E-book Pages: 405 pages Publisher: GBE Press Blurb: Janna Tulli, a disillusioned airship mechanic, is on the run from her father’s fruitless rebellion. Elsie, an orphan trapped in the miserable workhouse system, dreams of a better life. Princess Yvonnia, heir apparent to the fractured nation of Sial, is forced to seek aid from the imperialists who threaten her people. Arthur Pendington, former captain of the Imperial Dreadnought Formidable, is out for revenge against the empire that made him into a monster. With nothing but his wits, a rag-tag crew, and an ill-gotten airship, Arthur plans to destroy the remaining dreadnoughts: weapons of terror that rain destruction on the Odolian Empire’s enemies and civilians alike.
Arthur’s impossible mission pulls them all into his inescapable orbit, threatening to shatter the Odolian establishment and tear apart the lives of his few remaining friends. Set in a Dickensian world of flintlocks, airships, class warfare, and colonialism, this swashbuckling steampunk adventure is packed with action, political intrigue, and unforgettable characters who will stay with you long after the final page.
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
The Heart of Resistance is a richly imagined steampunk odyssey set against the backdrop of imperial tyranny and crumbling rebellion. As someone who thrives on character-driven narratives and deeply layered world-building, I found this novel thoroughly immersive, even when it treaded familiar thematic ground.
Told in a multi-POV structure, the story braids together the lives of Janna—a disillusioned rebel mechanic; Elsie—a workhouse orphan desperate for a life beyond servitude; and Arthur Pendington—a once-loyal imperial captain turned insurgent. Each voice brings a distinct texture to the story. Janna’s inner turmoil, especially, stood out to me—her gritted realism, biting wit, and the slowly unraveling weight of her past were brilliantly done. There’s a raw, authentic edge to her arc that reminded me of classic literary rebels, but with a modern grit.
The prose walks the line between efficient and occasionally ornate, particularly in describing the cityscapes of Gorand or the infernal machinery of dreadnoughts. The scenes involving airships and skydocks were kinetic and cinematic, and the combat sequences (especially the boarding and escape scenes) had real tension. I appreciated how the authors avoided glamorizing war; they instead chose to emphasize the psychological wear and the slow erasure of ideals, which felt honest.
If I had a critique, it would be about pacing (my old nemesis). The novel begins with a sharp hook and builds well, but midsections—especially the early Elsie chapters—sag slightly. I found myself yearning for a tighter edit in parts to match the intensity of the opening and climax. Some emotional beats also felt rushed when they could have been lingered on for greater impact. That said, the world itself never falters—it feels lived-in and vividly rendered.
Overall, this is a strong debut from the Griffeys. It carries the weight of classic resistance literature while still feeling timely. For readers who love character-driven science fantasy with rebellion, found family, and just the right amount of grit, The Heart of Resistance is well worth your time.
Author: Julia Maslova Release Date: February 27, 2025 Series: Mana Ray (Book 1) Genre: Science-Fiction, Dystopia, Fantasy, Sci-Fi Fantasy Format: E-book Pages: 358 pages Publisher: – Blurb: Mana Ray’s Space Diary Entry #1: To whoever may find this— They told us perfection was the key to happiness, to prosperity, to saving our god. They told us magic was a lie, a danger, a curse that would destroy everything we hold sacred. I believed them. I believed in the rules, the scores, the Cult of Perfect Life. I believed in everything… until they cast me out. Now I see the cracks in our perfect world—polluted skies, dying forests, storms that rage harder every year. The government says magic is to blame, but what if the magic they fear is the only thing that can save us? What if the ones we call savages hold the answers we’ve been forbidden to ask?
I’ve left the city behind, abandoned the life I was taught to worship, and walked into the forest in search of something more. They say the gods of the wild are dangerous. They say I shouldn’t trust them. But they also said perfection would save us, and that was a lie. I don’t know what I’ll find out here. I don’t know if I’ll survive. But I do know one thing: the life I left behind wasn’t living at all. If you’re reading this, maybe you’ve been searching, too. Maybe you’re ready to see what’s beyond the lies we’ve been told. This is my story. This is the truth of what I’ve found. Are you ready to believe in something greater?
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
Mana Ray: Summer Magic by Julia Maslova is a captivating and thought-provoking novel that cleverly intertwines elements of dystopian science fiction with enchanting fantasy, crafting a compelling narrative that examines societal expectations, class divides, and ecological themes. Author Maslova deftly builds a world both familiar and uniquely imaginative, introducing readers to Odagea—a planet ruled by stringent class structures, technological advancements, and an oppressive cult of perfection.
At the heart of the narrative is Mana Ray, whose journey is as much internal as it is external. Mana, driven by aspirations of an ideal life, grapples with the rigid expectations of her society and the truths lurking beneath its seemingly flawless façade. The author shines in her depiction of Mana’s complexity; the character is at once relatable, vulnerable, and fiercely determined. Her struggles made me reflect on my own definitions of success and perfection.
Author Maslov juxtaposes the sterile, technological world of Midland with the magical existence of the indigenous tribes, creating a powerful commentary on environmental consciousness and spiritual harmony. The narrative is rich with vivid imagery and symbolism, particularly evident in the beautifully described rituals and landscapes, which serve as poignant contrasts to the controlled environments of Midland.
While the narrative is gripping and the world-building impressive, some segments may feel slightly heavy with exposition, especially around the workings of Odagea’s society. However, the depth and thoughtfulness embedded in the storytelling largely balance the pacing concerns.
Overall, Mana Ray: Summer Magic is a striking exploration of identity, societal pressure, and ecological balance. Author Maslov’s engaging prose, combined with meaningful themes and well-developed characters, makes it a must-read for fans of dystopian narratives infused with fantasy elements. Highly recommended for those who enjoy stories that challenge and inspire deeper contemplation.
Author:Harrison F. Kraus Release Date: February 16, 2025 Series: Of Gods and Men (Book #1) Genre: Epic Fantasy, Science Fantasy, Dystopian Format: E-book Pages: 413 pages Publisher: Blurb: The war to end all wars has already been fought—and darkness has won. In the realm of Aezigar, gods clashed, dragons roamed, and mortals fought for survival. But when the war between light and shadow reached its end, the god of darkness, Umbra, emerged victorious. His dominion is unchallenged, his hunger insatiable. Now, even as the land of Aezigar suffers beneath Umbra’s shadow, the god of darkness turns to a new world to conquer: Earth. But Umbra’s conquest is far from assured. On Earth, unexpected powers awaken in the unlikeliest of Earth’s inhabitants: an uncertain younger brother, a fiery older brother, an ignored son, an aspirant student, and a hardened military captain. Soon these heroes begin to discover their extraordinary connections to their parallel selves in Aezigar.
Meanwhile, in his arrogance, Umbra has left embers of rebellion still smoldering in Aezigar. In that alternate universe, the heroes begin to stand against a world dominated by the forces Umbra left to rule in his absence: a hunter in service to the darkness, two brothers fleeing for their lives, a coward hiding in enemy lands, a leader of a shattered people, and a reaver seeking plunder in the chaos. Now, the fate of two worlds hangs in the balance. Will the heroes of two worlds be able to stop the darkness that the heroes of Aezigar alone could not? Or will the light of both worlds be extinguished forever? … Of Gods and Men is a sweeping blend of fantasy and superhero genres, crafted for those who crave epic tales of courage, sacrifice, and hope. Spanning two worlds—modern Earth and the fantastical realm of Aezigar—it weaves multiple interconnected storylines into a grand narrative of rebellion, redemption, and resilience. With heroes shaped by their struggles and choices that echo across realities, this is a story where every action carries weight, every bond is tested, every sacrifice matters, and the fate of entire worlds hangs in the balance. Prepare to embark on an unforgettable journey of parallel worlds, godlike battles, and the enduring fight against darkness.
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
Of Gods and Men by Harrison F. Kraus is one of those rare debut fantasy novels that manages to feel both classic in scope and refreshingly contemporary in voice. I absolutely love ambitious worldbuilding, and author Kraus doesn’t hold back. From the icy intensity of the Sicarius hunting dragon-like Serpentes in Aezigar, to the quiet heartbreak of Samuel Turner’s humble teenage life unraveling in rural Pennsylvania, the dual narrative arcs are handled with surprising nuance.
What stood out most to me is how the novel explores the human condition through both grounded and mythic lenses. Sam, in particular, is a character who grows on you, his discomfort in his own skin, his awkward, uncertain crush on Kelly, and the surreal changes happening in his body reminded me of early King meets Percy Jackson but with a more literary edge. There’s a subtle emotional current running through the domestic scenes that really worked for me, even as the broader fantasy arc began to kick in.
The prose is confident, cinematic at times—especially during the Sicarius’s icy, violent quests—and the structure is intelligently paced, divided cleanly into “parts” that mirror thematic progression. However, I felt the book occasionally overextended itself, particularly in the slower exposition-heavy sections, and some of the dialogue between younger characters could’ve been more organic.
Still, this is an author with undeniable promise, and I’m really curious to see where Book 2 leads. For readers who enjoy morally complex anti-heroes, mythic beasts, and parallel worlds brimming with elemental power, Of Gods and Men offers a bold and thoughtful entry point into a much larger saga.
Author: David Morabito Release Date: May 13, 2024 Series: Genre: Suspense, Romance, YA, Science Fiction-Fantasy Format: E-book Pages: 366 pages Publisher: – Blurb: An emotionally confused teenage boy, known as Fish, living in a lackluster 1950’s suburban setting is accustomed to the anguish of growing up in a dysfunctional family. Nicknamed the Fisherman, he seemingly is always having to fish around for a reason for his miserable existence. He is then forced to face his worst fears confronting an abusive authority figure in the neighborhood known as Poppa. To compound his anguish, he endures the mistreatment while pursuing the love of Kara, a beautiful but garrulous neighbor girl, who is drawn into the conflict.
In the course of the conflict, they are transported to an alien realm which appears to be a beautiful peaceful setting but soon becomes “anything but” when Poppa and his henchmen stumble upon the portal. Fish and Kara’s affection for each other grows as they are being ruthlessly pursued. Finally the night of decision arrives for Fish, as Poppa and he confront each other in a suspenseful fiery setting of a surreal alien landscape. The Fisherman is forced to quickly fish for a fateful decision on the proper course of action he should take as he weighs concepts of vengeance, justice and redemption.
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
Night of the Fisherman by David Morabito is a nostalgic suspenseful journey that seamlessly blends the 1950s suburban milieu with a surreal and alien twist.
The characters stand out in this book. Fish is an achingly relatable protagonist whose inner turmoil feels extremely realistic. His bond with Kara, the spirited neighbour girl, adds warmth and hope to the otherwise intense narrative. Poppa, on the other hand, is a terrifyingly oppressive figure whose presence kept me on edge throughout the story.
The suburban setting is painted with amazing detail and was successful in evoking a strong sense of time and place. The alien realm introduces an imaginative layer of intrigue, with its deceptive beauty quickly unraveling into danger and suspense. The dramatic final confrontation between Fish and Poppa is both super exciting and touching, forcing Fish to wrestle with timeless themes of vengeance, justice, and redemption.
While the book’s rich descriptions and philosophical undertones are commendable, they occasionally slow down the pacing. Some readers might wish for a tighter narrative flow. Nevertheless, Night of the Fisherman is an emotionally gripping tale with strong character development and a unique blend of genres and I highly recommend it to readers who enjoy tales that mix introspection with high-stakes action.
Author:Lancelot Schaubert Release Date: 25th July 2023 Series: Genre: General Fiction (Adult) | Poetry | Sci Fi & Fantasy Format: E-book Pages: 138 Publisher: Vale Blurb: The Greenwood Poet spent two years spelunking the archive, grounds, and barrows of Greenwood Cemetery — America’s oldest and greatest rural cemetery. While there, he uncovered stories of love and loss, stories of shipwreck and tragedy. And he met several Fae creatures who had something to say about New York city. Written mostly in heroic meter with a couple breaks for spoken word and Renaissance meters, The Greenwood Poet calls us to return to the Arcadia in our own neighborhood. And does so through poetic fictions.
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 5 out of 5.
The Greenwood Poet by Lancelot Schaubert is a beautiful and heart-touching poetry collection. What really made this collection special for me was that the poems in this collection are all themed beautifully, rooted in a place that holds a very special place for the author. I am a believer in certain places holding an unyielding grip on one’s heart and soul and every poem in this collection makes my belief stronger.
So I loved the entire collection and though there were a few favourites, overall this book makes for an excellent read with the bite-sized poems that are more contemplative in their content than their length.
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:Sher J. Stultz Release Date: 10th January 2022 Series: The Timestream Travelers Chronicles (Book #1) Genre: Science-Fiction Fantasy, Time Travel, Adventure, Young Adult Format: E-book Pages: 302 pages Publisher: Blurb: It all starts when the sheets go slack, and Aeneas vanishes! He and his two best friends, C.J. and Tabitha are spellbound as they watch the video feed of his disappearance and witness him climbing through his bedroom window an hour later, wearing different socks. Aeneas Entwistle, a slightly above average eighth grader is about to discover that the mystery of waking up with different socks is much more than just a prank.
Meanwhile, Aeneas’s twenty-something daughter, Cassie has traveled thirty-eight years from the future hoping to find any small detail that might help locate her missing father. Enlisting Harold, the Entwistle’s quirky housekeeper, Cassie works to rescue a middle-aged Aeneas, who vanishes into the timestream when a 7.2 earthquake strikes northwest Washington in May of 2053. But Cassie’s presence in the past might have unforeseen consequences for everyone in her circle. As she struggles to find her father, a carefully guarded family secret is revealed, and Cassie must choose between altering the past or violating the shamanic rules of time travel!
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
Rescue by Sher J. Stultz is the first book in The Timestream Travelers Chronicles. It is a fun and adventurous story with well-developed characters and a really good concept. I really liked reading this book because it felt very light and breezy.
The writing style of the author is simpl yet effective. It had a great flow and thus, made reading this book very easy and quick. I am looking forward to reading the next part in this series because I’ve come to care about the main characters and would love to know what happens next for them.
I would highly recommend this book to all teens and readers of YA and sci-fi-fantasy genres. Also, time-travel fans should also give it a read as they may find this book very interesting.
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: 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: Daniel Hagedorn Release Date: 10th February 2021 Genre: Science-Fiction Fantasy Series: Format: E-book Pages: 330 pages Publisher: Atmosphere Press Blurb: How do humans survive after a massive pandemic that has devastated the population? Rather than living amid continued chaos and panic, the surviving population enjoys a thriving life thanks to the assistance of the network, a vast system that connects everything and everyone. The network protects from the virus while allowing everyone to lead their best life. Every dream and desire can easily be attained.
14 years into this networked world, David, one of the creators, wakes up to find that he is no longer connected. Is he the only one? And why, for what purpose? David feels almost like waking from a dream only to discover a technologically advanced world, full of beautiful and spectacular things, but all may not be what it seems. What is the difference between a dream and reality? What is the nature of experience?
Follow David as he wanders through a vast maze, uncovering layer upon layer in his search for truth. Recalling his former life, he must choose between what he feels, his natural compulsion to question everything, and what is good for humanity. The Lodestar takes you on a deep look into philosophical questions surrounding technology and its role in humanity.
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
Lodestar by Daniel Hagedorn is a riveting new sci-fi fantasy read that will pull you in right from the start and keep you hooked till the very last page. I really liked this book because in spite of being a technological read it had a lot of philosophical threads weaved in throughout the story which made it a very interesting and a thought-provoking read.
I liked the characterisation, vague-ish as the main ones were I really enjoyed reading about them. The writing was good and complemented the plot well. The concept, for me, was a complete win-win, and the plot structuring was good. Overall it is a nice read and I’d highly recommend it to all sci-fi readers who like reading about philosophical themes and fantastical elements.
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: T.C. Schueler Release Date: 13th January 2020 Genre: Speculative Fiction Fantasy, Psychological Thriller, Horror, Urban Fantasy, Supernatural, Paranormal Series: Format: E-book Pages: 492 Publisher: Blurb: An estranged son drives twelve hours to collect badly needed money from his father’s estate. The same ugly McMansion still sits behind a security wall, but there are new features: a gaudy slate roof, a 70s-style conversation pit, and nearly two dozen statues posted along the wall like sentinels. It makes no sense: Billy Buchanan’s scheming father was broke; where had these fierce, obviously valuable sculptures come from? Forced to spend the week at 22 Dutch Road, Billy begins believing these samurai-styled carvings can talk to him by day, and worse, move at night—his father might not be so dead after all.
REVIEW
★★★★
22 Dutch Road by T.C. Schueler is a very unique blend of and a cross-over of a lot of interesting genres such as Paranormal horror thriller with elements of sci-fi fantasy and speculative fiction but still giving off the overall vibe of a fantasy read. So many things happen in this book that it is hard to get bored while reading it so it definitely made for an entertaining read.
When I started reading the book, I was instantly pulled into the plot with a great opening and thankfully found myself involved and engaged with the story throughout till then end. The characterisation was okay but the writing was good along with the overall story-line.
It was a surreal read if I have to describe it in one word, and I really think that it is worth a read, so I’d recommend it to all the readers of sci-fi fiction-fantasy and paranormal and horror fantasy fans (well, that was quite a handful, innit?!)
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: Patrick Malum Release Date: 18th October 2019 Genre: Science-Fiction Fantasy, Young Adult, Space Fantasy, Serials, Series: Oddity Of The Magicus Eye (Part #2) Edition: E-book Pages: 96 Publisher: Blurb: The epic space fantasy serial continues!
Following the events of PATTERNS, the two children of Etheron are in terrible danger. A dark force swells in the heights of the Forty-Ninth Council, putting the galaxy in turmoil. The fate of everyone depends on one broken man.
ODDITY OF THE MAGICUS EYE is a monthly space fantasy from exciting new author, Patrick Malum. Be sure to first check out Part 1, also available on Amazon and Kindle Unlimited, and visit the official Oddity website for more.
REVIEW
★★★★
Oddity Of The Magicus Eye: Mokuura by Patrick Malum is the second episode in the serialised epic fantasy series Oddity Of The Magicus Eye and the sequel to Oddity Of The Magicus Eye: Patterns (Part #1).
This book was every bit as fun as the first one and I thoroughly enjoyed reading it from start to end. The book picked up where the last one left off and the reader is thrust into the action-filled world of Etheron. I enjoyed the plot as well as the narration and felt that my connections with the main characters deepened quite a bit as I read this part. So I have a lot of hopes and expectation from the next instalment in this series.
The best part about this episode-based series is that the author doesn’t repeat the plot points over and over again as is normally the case in book series. Being short episodes it is a given that either the reader is keeping up with the release of all parts and reading them monthly, or reading in all in one go, so there’s no unnecessary narration dedicated to the ‘catching-up’ of the earlier part(s).
I’d again recommend this book as well as the series so far to all space-fantasy, epic fantasy and sci-fi readers.
Author: Patrick Malum Release Date: 26th September 2019 Genre: Science-Fiction Fantasy, Young Adult, Space Fantasy, Serials, Series: Edition: E-book Pages: 75 Publisher: WordBuzz Publishing Blurb: Sixteen-year-old Elenah Lockwood dreams of what lies beyond her boring world of Etheron. With a mind fuelled by amazing, fantastical stories of the vast and sprawling galaxy, she needs only one thing: an opportunity.
Her older brother, Teveran, is destined to go where she cannot and lead the greatest fleets of the revered and indomitable Forty-Ninth Council. But there’s war and unrest, and it frightens him more than anything.
And then there’s the kind and unassuming butler, Gilgan, who has seen the worst of what the galaxy has to offer and is now seeing signs of the very worst happening again. All is not well on Etheron — and in the galaxy — for a sickness swells in the murky galactic depths and it all begins with the Forty-Ninth Council.
The day the Council descends on Etheron begins like any other day . . .
PATTERNS is the first episode of ODDITY OF THE MAGICUS EYE, the monthly space fantasy from the emerging young author Patrick Malum. Prepare for a tale of war, galactic politics, and ancient magic told like nothing else before it.
REVIEW
★★★★
Oddity Of The Magicus Eye: Patterns by Patrick Malum is the first episode in the serialised fantasy series Oddity Of The Magicus Eye. This is a very quick read and proved to be a complete entertainer. I enjoyed each and every bit of it.
I enjoyed this book from start to end. It moved pretty fast and the tension was evident throughout all chapters making it a page-turner that I wanted to read in a single sitting. The plot was really good and the ending was perfect. I am now eagerly waiting to start with the next episode!
The writing was on point and complemented the plot well. The characterization wasn’t over-complicated and I really appreciated it because the characters were all pretty relatable and likeable (enough for me to have enjoyed reading and knowing more about them.)
Another thing I’d like to mention here is that I was really impressed by the author’s taste in designing this book, something that is always lacking in self-published books. The editing was also in place as was the proof-reading. The book looks gorgeous and compels the reader to pick it up because of how neat and professional it looks. It screams amazing things right from the cover and coupled with that intriguing blurb, the author has got the recipe for a really good book which is equally good on the outside as it is on the inside.
I’d recommend this book to all sci-fi and fantasy readers as it’ll appeal to everyone who loves adventure and action coupled with space and magic. And the fact that it is in the form of short monthly episodes makes it all the more appealing.
You can also read this review on Goodreads and Amazon
Author: Rebecca Crunden Release Date: – Genre: Dystopian, Science-Fiction Fantasy, Young Adult Series: The Outlands Pentalogy (Book #5) Edition: E-book Pages: 330 Publisher: – Blurb: In the years since Kitty, Nate and Thom escaped the Kingdom, the Plague has ravaged the population and the rebels have seized two of the northern countries. In an attempt to bring order to the chaos, the leader of the rebels, Nate’s old friend James, has agreed to hold trials for those responsible for intentionally leaking the Plague.
Unfortunately, the rumour in the Kingdom is that Kitty is responsible. To make matters worse, Blaise tells Kitty that the Council, who still count her father as one of their own, are once again experimenting on Radiants. It’s a horrifying realisation that hits too close to home, and for the first time in her life, Kitty thirsts for vengeance. It’s a thirst that’s matched by the one person who has always been her mirror — her Complement, Thom.
On the other side of the Wall in the Outlands, desperate to bring Kitty home and finish the Council once and for all, Thom begins plotting, using the skills he’s long honed to outsmart those with more power. But outsmarting his enemies might turn Thom into the very thing he’s always feared becoming, and war soon seems the only possible solution to stopping the Council and the Hangman. But with more than a few looking to the ancient prophecy of peace, Thom searches desperately for a way to circumvent more bloodshed.
Yet the weight of the years have taken their toll, and as Thom’s physical and mental health deteriorate, Nate struggles with the fallout of past crimes, both the ones he did commit, and the ones he didn’t …
REVIEW
★★★★+1/2
A Time Of Prophecy by Rebeca Crunden is the last instalment in The Outlands Pentalogy.
What a great end to a great series! OMG, what can I say? There are YA books which revolve around such petty conflicts that they are entirely cringe-worthy and go a long way in destroying the reader’s trust in the genre itself, but then there are some rare gems, like this series, that come out of nowhere and restore your faith in a genre you thought was on the verge of being lost.
This book served as a great end to the series as it answered all the questions I had and provided me with a satisfactory closure. Most of the times, series continue to be great until the last book where everything falls flat or at the least, you are left disappointed or unsatisfied because nothing can do justice to the awesomeness of the story. Many times writers simply don’t know how to end a series and that is what ruins it entirely. But when it comes to this series, we have a writer who not only knows how to begin something epic and but also knows how to end it with the same rigour and grace.
And this series deserved a good ending because it was such a thrilling, complicated, exciting and engaging story about gripping, strong, believable and well-developed characters in realistic and intricate settings. This dystopian series is a hundred times better than most of the “best-selling” series of today. I would happily place this series with the likes of Hunger Games and Six Of Crows because the characters in this series face bigger problems than teenage hormonal dilemmas and are relatable in an unbelievable way.
The writing in this book was on par with the other books so far and made the reading of this book a pleasant ride. The tension and pacing were apt and I finished this book in no more than 3 days, so it was a very quick read. I’d recommend this book to all dystopian and fantasy lovers and to those who want to explore a unique new series by a new author.
Author: Rebecca Crunden Release Date: – Genre: Dystopian, Science-Fiction Fantasy, Young Adult Series: The Outlands Pentalogy (Book #4) Edition: E-book Pages: Publisher: – Blurb: A year into the Outlands and life has only become more dangerous and complex for Kitty and her friends. Not only are the Outcasts hunting them, but Charles and Ciara are adamant about returning to the Kingdom to help, forcing everyone to take a side. To make matters worse, the leader of the Outcasts, Quen, has an unrelenting fascination with Thom and Nate that soon reaches horrific heights.
As tensions mount and the group begins to splinter, Riddle comes to Kitty with an unexpected request. A secret. One that makes them inseparable.
Kitty soon finds herself spending more and more time away from Nate and Thom, learning to fight and increasingly drawn into the ways of the Radiants. But Kitty and Riddle’s new bond doesn’t come without complications, and a decision made by the two of them threatens more than Kitty’s relationship with Nate …
REVIEW
★★★★+1/2
A Dance Of Lies by Rebecca Crunden is the second last part in The Outlands Pentalogy and the sequel to A Promise Of Return. In this instalment, things progress slowly as compared to the other parts in this series till now, but nonetheless, they progress steadily giving the feeling that it is a slow build-up to something very important. And alas, the ending was a smashing hit because of such subtle build-up leading to it all throughout this book.
I enjoyed reading this book greatly even because of the slow pace followed in most of the book because the story kept taking me forward and the air of inevitable danger lent it a really good vibe. The characterization was great as usual and we got to see Kitty again along with some other major characters. The ending was mindblowing and has created a lot of excitement for the last part of this series.
Again, I’d recommend this book as well as the entire series to young-adult and dystopian readers and also to anyone looking to get into a new series by a relatively new author.
Author: Rebecca Crunden Release Date: – Genre: Dystopian, Science-Fiction Fantasy Series: The Outlands Pentalogy (Book #3) Edition: E-book Pages: 282 Publisher: – Blurb: When Thom Anteros is arrested after breaking into the Building of Historical Records, he demands to be taken before the King. A laughable demand for anyone else, Thom’s request is granted and the King spares his life. Yet what’s to become of him is left in the hands of the one person Thom truly fears – Mickey Taenia, the King’s Hangman.
Infuriated by Thom’s refusal to reveal the whereabouts of Nate and Catherine, the Hangman sends Thom to one of the worst places in the Kingdom – the slave markets of Muntenia. It is there that Thom is bought for the Red Arena: a barbaric, gladiator-type competition where the children of convicts and other unlucky souls are forced to fight to the death.
Twenty wins is release. One loss is death.
With the help of Charles Thoreau, a fellow captive, Thom begins not only to survive, but to thrive. A master of words becomes a master of death, and Thom’s prowess in the arena frightens even him.
But death isn’t the only thing haunting Thom. As the days go by, he dreams of his brother, and the promise he cannot forget. I will return.
REVIEW
★★★★+1/2
A Promise Of Return by Rebecca Crunden is the third book in The Outlands Pentalogy and the sequel to A History Of Madness. This was an absolute page-turner. I loved how the author explored Thom’s journey in this book apart from Nate and Kitty which helped the reader in understanding him better and more intimately.
We get to see and know more about the amazing universe that the author has created and some fresh characters which hopefully would be making an entry in the next parts. I enjoyed this book even more than the first two books and I can’t wait to dig in the next one! The writing, the plot and the characterization along with the plot-progression, world-building and the pacing and tension – everything, seems to develop for the better consistently throughout this series as far as I am concerned. And I am very sure that the next two books will have a lot in store for their readers.
I’d highly recommend this book and the entire series to dystopian lovers! If you are into sci-fi fantasy and have a special love for well-written books, then you simply cannot miss this amazing series.
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