Author:Glendall C. Jackson III Release Date: June 20, 2023 Series: Genre: Detective Fiction Format: E-book Pages: 102 pages Publisher: GCJ3 Enterprise Blurb: In many murder mysteries, the call girl gets killed. This novella turns that tired trope on its head. A skilled and versatile sex worker learns that one of her clients, a prominent businessman, was brutally murdered just hours after their last date. With her unique access to the upper echelon of Washington D.C. society, she embarks on an investigation that leads to a shocking discovery. Glendall C. Jackson III, an award-winning non-fiction writer, creates a vivid portrait of high-end sex work.
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 5 out of 5.
Naked Came the Detective by Glendall C. Jackson III is a refreshing twist on the classic murder mystery genre. I really liked this book because it defies tired tropes as author Jackson introduces a skilled and versatile sex worker who is thrust into the role of amateur detective. The unique perspective of a high-end sex worker really sets this novella apart, and what really adds to the narrative is author Jackson’s meticulous attention to detail, offering a glimpse into the lives of characters who navigate the complexities of power, privilege, and deception.
The protagonist’s journey from sex worker to investigator is both compelling and unexpected, as she uses her intimate knowledge of the upper echelons of society to uncover the truth behind the murder. The author’s writing is sharp and engaging, keeping readers guessing until the very end.
While the novella may be short in length, it is long on suspense and intrigue. It has a brisk pace, with twists and turns that kept me eagerly turning pages. Overall, Naked Came the Detective is a compelling and thought-provoking novella that subverts expectations and delivers an engaging mystery with a fresh perspective. Fans of the genre will definitely enjoy the sharp prose and inventive storytelling.
Author:Greg Belliveau Release Date: August 15, 2023 Series: IMAGO (Book #2) Genre: Fantasy Format: E-book Pages: 381 pages Publisher: Rogue Phoenix Press Blurb: It has been ten years since Christopher Dante, the last storyteller, defeated the Ghul in the abandoned subway tunnels under Cogstin, and now he has vanished without a trace. There are rumors and whispers of a new evil emerging, ancient, dark, beyond the Black Mountains, a Horned God who rules the skeleton people of the north. Welcome to Gods of IMAGO, book two in the stunning IMAGO Series. Gods of IMAGO is literary dystopia at its absolute best, blending amazing world-building with thought provoking, artful prose in an unforgettable, page-turning experience that will haunt the reader long after the last sentence.
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 5 out of 5.
Gods of IMAGO by Greg Belliveau is the second book in the IMAGO series. Without a doubt, this book is a literary masterpiece that had me glued to its pages from the very first page to the haunting final sentence. I have not read the first book (though now I’m going to go back and read it) and this book can be read as a standalone as all the necessary details are provided by the author whenever necessary. I was thoroughly impressed with author Belliveau’s mastery of world-building and storytelling. He has done a marvellous job of creating a dystopian realm filled with intrigue, danger, and ancient evils.
The prose is both thought-provoking and artful, weaving the suspense and mystery beautifully and keeping me on the edge of my seat throughout the story. For me, what really sets Gods of IMAGO apart from other contemporary fantasy novels is its richly imagined world, filled with well-developed characters and immersive settings. Every aspect of the world feels meticulously crafted and brimming with depth.
Overall, Gods of IMAGO is a literary tour de force that delivers an unforgettable experience. Author Belliveau’s brilliant storytelling combined with his unparalleled world-building make this book a must-read for fans of dystopian fiction and literary thrillers alike.
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: Massimo Fantini Release Date: June 21, 2023 Series: Human Condition Trilogy, Book #2 Genre: Philosophical Fiction, Societal and Cultural Commentary, Political Fiction, Environmental Fiction Format: E-book Pages: 272 pages Publisher: – Blurb: Intellectual suicide corresponds to the more or less conscious decision to switch off the brain and renounce rational thought in favor of attitudes dictated by superstitions, by established habits, by prejudices, by common places. The effects of irrational choices – made with the brain switched off – can be devastating for oneself and for the others. Examples range from conformism, to religious superstitions, to ideological fundamentalism, just to name a few possibilities.
Tommaso, the protagonist of this debate, is the victim of his parents’ intellectual suicide, perpetrated through procreation. Procreation – the unilateral act by which a couple throws innocent individuals into the stillicidium of life, without weighing the consequences that the hell of existence will have on them – is the most heinous form of intellectual suicide in the human race, not least because of the scale of its consequences.
The author’s intention is to shine the spotlight on the one reality that unites us all, that accompanies our lives from birth until death, but which is casted to our periphery: the human condition.
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4.5 out of 5.
Concerning Intellectual Suicide in The Human Race by Massimo Fantini is the second instalment of the Human Condition Trilogy. In this book, author Fantini explores the complex web of human consciousness, exploring the inescapable consequences of intellectual complacency and irrationality. Through the lens of protagonist Tommaso’s journey, the author exposes the pervasive influence of superstition, prejudice, and conformism in shaping our individual and collective destinies.
What sets this book apart is its unflinching examination of procreation as the ultimate act of intellectual suicide. The author confronts the taboo surrounding this topic head-on, challenging readers to consider the ethical implications of bringing new life into a world fraught with suffering and uncertainty. By weaving together philosophical insights and real-life examples, he provokes thought-provoking questions about the nature of existence and the responsibilities we bear as conscious beings.
The writing is both incisive and eloquent, guiding readers through complex philosophical concepts with clarity and precision. His keen observations and rigorous analysis illuminate the intricacies of the human condition, inviting readers to engage in a deeper exploration of their own beliefs and values. While the subject matter may be weighty, the author’s approach is refreshingly accessible, making this book an enlightening and thought-provoking read for both seasoned intellectual readers and curious minds alike.
Author: Massimo Fantini Release Date: June 21, 2023 Series: Human Condition Trilogy, Book #1 Genre: Philosophical Fiction, Societal and Cultural Commentary, Political Fiction, Environmental Fiction Format: E-book Pages: 465 pages Publisher: – Blurb: The small village of the Island of the Iguanas experiences the succession of different communities – sometimes forced to live together, sometimes taking over from a former generation. Each community possesses a culture and an assortment of certainties which it does not intend to give up, judging a priori the customs of those who preceded it as uncivilized or unreasonable. Over the years, the community consolidates and grows, together with their prejudices, social injustices, and religious superstitions. The structural transformations of the village have repercussions on the ecosystem of the island which – starting as a protected nature reserve – becomes a hunting place, a tourist destination, and a favorable terrain for smugglers to exploit.
Thus, faced with the opportunity to adopt a new lifestyle – concerning principles of equality, safeguarding personal freedoms, and restoring the ancient harmony between man and nature – there are those who choose to follow the tested path of the government of man over man, which makes discrimination its founding principle, and those who choose to defy it. Social contrasts – delineated by origin, by social background, by acquired privileges – begin to arise within these communities, which are made up of heterogeneous families and members of different ages and ambitions. Given the possibility to make a clean sweep of the past and rebuild the social fabric from scratch, will those who position themselves as leaders avoid the mistakes made by their predecessors or will they end up mechanically following the same steps laid out by human history? The editing and translation of this book was done by Ian Zwaschka.
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4.5 out of 5.
Concerning Decay of The Human Race by Massimo Fantini, the first instalment of the Human Condition Trilogy, is a greatly engrossing read. Fantini presents readers with a thought-provoking exploration of the human condition, set against the backdrop of the small village of the Island of the Iguanas. Through a succession of different communities, each with its own culture and certainties, Fantini delves deep into the complexities of societal evolution and the impact it has on both individuals and the environment.
One aspect of the book that struck me was Fantini’s nuanced portrayal of social dynamics and cultural evolution within the village. As different communities come and go, they bring with them their own prejudices, injustices, and superstitions, ultimately shaping the course of the village’s development. Fantini expertly navigates themes of discrimination, social inequality, and environmental degradation, prompting readers to reflect on the parallels between the fictional village and the world we inhabit today.
What sets Concerning Decay of The Human Race apart is its profound philosophical underpinnings and its ability to spark meaningful debate on pressing issues facing humanity. Through richly drawn characters and intricate plotlines, Fantini challenges readers to consider the consequences of our actions and the choices we make as individuals and societies. As the characters grapple with the opportunity to rebuild their social fabric from scratch, readers are left pondering whether history is doomed to repeat itself or if true change is possible.
Overall, Concerning Decay of The Human Race is a compelling and thought-provoking read that will resonate with anyone interested in exploring the complexities of human nature and society. With its captivating narrative and insightful commentary, Fantini’s novel sets the stage for a gripping trilogy that promises to delve even deeper into the fundamental questions of existence. I eagerly await the next instalment in this captivating series.
Author:Andrew Dulay Release Date: February 15, 2024 Series: Genre: Fiction, Action & Adventure, Espionage, Suspense Format: E-book Pages: 242 pages Publisher: – Blurb: You have been called upon to serve. It is 1975. Clay is among a dozen orphaned children, selected by the British Government, for a clandestine program to craft the best spies in the world. This is the secret “Sea Dogs” program, inspired by the historic Elizabethan Sea Dogs, who were the Queen’s pirates that waged unconventional war against Her Majesty’s enemies. All the children have been orphaned at the hands of Britain’s global enemies of Communism and terrorism. The children are brought to train and live on the self-sufficient land of Castle Omega in the Scottish Highlands. They are tutored by WWII hero, Commander James Hammond, of British Naval Intelligence. And by his wife, Evie, who investigated murders, crimes, and espionage for Scotland Yard.
Physics, wilderness survival, war games, and underwater demolition-are among the many skills the children learn at Castle Omega. But above all, they are taught to kill the enemy. The children discover their purpose of exacting revenge against Britain’s enemies to avenge their parents. In their years of sequestered training, the orphaned children come to see their adult tutors as their new parents, and together they form the family they all wish they still had. The Sea Dogs is just the beginning of Clay’s lifelong mission for Queen, God, & Country. Welcome to Castle Omega. By joining the Sea Dogs program, you hereby swear your life to secrecy. If you are ever compromised or risk the secrecy of the mission-then you shall be sent to Davey Jones’ Locker. And be buried at sea. “I shall die a happy death-knowing my secrets die with me.”
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
The Sea Dogs by Andrew Dulay is an exemplary read. What sets it apart is its unique blend of historical inspiration and thrilling espionage. Dulay expertly weaves together elements of adventure, suspense, and coming-of-age drama, creating a story that keeps readers on the edge of their seats from start to finish. As Clay and his fellow orphans navigate the complexities of their training and grapple with their newfound purpose of seeking revenge against Britain’s enemies, they form bonds that transcend their shared tragedies, forging a family out of necessity.
One aspect of the book that particularly stood out to me is the vividly depicted setting of Castle Omega. From its remote location in the Scottish Highlands to its self-sufficient infrastructure, Dulay brings this clandestine training facility to life with rich detail and atmospheric prose. As Clay and his comrades undergo their intense training regimen under the watchful eye of Commander James Hammond and his wife Evie, readers are transported into a world where secrecy is paramount and danger lurks around every corner.
Overall, The Sea Dogs is a captivating read that seamlessly blends history, action, and emotion. With its well-developed characters, immersive setting, and pulse-pounding plot, this novel is sure to appeal to fans of espionage thrillers and coming-of-age tales alike.
The Reading Bud 