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: E.F. Nordmed Release Date: July 14, 2025 Series: Genre: Cozy Mystery, Science-Fiction Format: E-book Pages: 184 pages Publisher: – Blurb: Stout works as a tech by day, saving up money to achieve his dream of leaving the planet. His plans are thrown in disarray when he’s asked to look for a missing college student, Andrew, and he quickly finds himself over his head while looking for answers. He reaches out to his old flame, Yasmeen, who works on the police force for help. Yasmeen is unhappy with the corruption she sees in her job, but is trying to change the force from the inside. When Stout asks her for aid, she’s hesitant to assist his amateur investigation, but when he’s falsely framed for murder and kidnapping knows she has to get involved.
Can they navigate Corporate Security agents, industrial spies, and the criminal underground to rescue the student and clear Stout’s name before it’s too late? Will they be able to stay true to their values in a world that rewards corruption? And will they let their feelings for each other reignite, or will the world get in their way?
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
E.F. Nordmed’s Market of the Never Setting Sun is a refreshing entry in the sci-fi mystery space. It’s a novel that blends the grit of corporate corruption and industrial espionage with the charm of a cozy mystery’s slower, character-driven heart. At its center is Stout, a weary but determined tech worker saving every penny for his dream of leaving the planet. That dream is derailed when he’s asked to track down a missing college student, Andrew, a seemingly simple favor that spirals into a dangerous web of intrigue.
One of the novel’s greatest strengths is its atmosphere. The titular market feels vibrant and lived-in, a place where technology, trade, and corruption intersect beneath the glow of a sun that never sets. Nordmed balances worldbuilding with accessibility, never bogging the reader down in jargon but giving enough detail for the setting to feel tangible.
The character dynamics are equally engaging. Stout is a reluctant hero, stumbling into danger out of obligation rather than ambition, which makes his growth believable. His rekindled connection with Yasmeen, the police officer caught between her moral compass and a corrupt system, adds depth both to the plot and to the emotional stakes. Their relationship feels authentic and the tension between their personal bond and the larger mystery keeps the narrative engaging.
Thematically, the novel resonates. Questions of justice, integrity, and survival in a system built on exploitation underpin the mystery. The story doesn’t shy away from pointing out how corruption seeps into institutions meant to protect, but it does so with a cozy tone that makes the critique approachable rather than bleak.
The prose itself is straightforward and effective, but at times leans on exposition when showing would have been more immersive. Still, Nordmed’s clean writing style makes the book highly readable, and the lighter touch aligns well with the cozy sci-fi niche it occupies.
Market of the Never Setting Sun is a thoughtful, atmospheric sci-fi mystery that stands out for its grounded characters, morally resonant themes, and cozy but suspenseful tone. It’s a satisfying, engaging read that will appeal to fans of sci-fi with heart, mystery with conscience, and stories that ask what it means to hold onto your values in a world that rewards corruption.
Author: David Finley Release Date: 3 November, 2021 Series: Genre: YA Dystopian Satire, YA Humor, YA Adventure, YA Science Fiction Format: E-book Pages: 204 pages Publisher: FINWORKS Blurb: Like Orwell’s 1984 — but even funnier! In a grim School-centred dystopia where humour is outlawed and laughter—even a single HA!—is met with an excruciating electric shock to the neck, Billy 9F is the ultimate threat: he’s a Class Clown. When he’s labeled a menace for his extremely convincing and sublimely funny fake snot, barf and turd pranks, Billy joins a underground comedic resistance movement with a mysterious new student, Jamie 9F, her mysterious grandfather, the Major, an ultra-mysterious revolutionary leader named Poopoo the Clown, and Billy’s not-at-all
mysterious but highly malfunctioning android mentor, Uncle Mike. To free his imprisoned parents, save his little sister’s life and liberate the joyless populace, Billy must fully realize his own natural-born gifts and harness the awesome power of laughter. Darkly funny, fast, and surprisingly hopeful, BILLY 9F is perfect for readers 12 years of age to infinity who love page-turners with big ideas—and lots of laughs.
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
David Finley’s Billy 9F is a wildly inventive YA dystopian satire that blends absurdist humor with biting social commentary. The novel follows Billy, a schoolboy living in a rigid system where laughter is outlawed, rules are enforced with demerits and “Pain Collars,” and conformity is the highest value. His life takes a strange turn when his parents gift him “Uncle Mike,” a 57-year-old man who becomes both an irritating companion and an unlikely ally. From there, Billy stumbles into secret wars with clowns, underground resistance movements, and surreal teachers who bulldoze into dining rooms mid-meal.
What makes the book compelling is its sharp use of comedy as rebellion. Whether it’s fart jokes elevated to acts of protest, or the way “outside laughter” becomes a weapon against authoritarian control, author Finley underscores the importance of humor as survival. The recurring presence of Uncle Mike, bumbling, exasperating, yet oddly endearing, adds both comic relief and thematic depth. Jamie and the Major, resistance figures who guide Billy, give the narrative more emotional resonance and direction.
From an editorial perspective, the book occasionally overindulges in repetition. Uncle Mike’s constant chatter and some extended slapstick routines could have been trimmed without losing impact. Still, the playful prose, the creativity of its dystopian world, and the rhythm of dialogue keep the pages turning.
Overall, Billy 9F is equal parts absurd, satirical, and heartfelt. It asks readers, young and old alike, to remember the radical power of laughter in a world that insists on taking itself too seriously.
Author: Djanee Release Date: 21 October 25 Series: Genre: Science-Fiction, Speculative Fiction, Faith-Infused, Thriller, Action, Christian Literature Format: E-book Pages: 296 pages Publisher: Xulon Press Blurb: Sophie and her friends have been captured and held prisoner for the purpose of obtaining intelligence they do not have. They have been burned, tortured, and abused for days right after having everything that they have ever known destroyed and taken away from them. They discover from a prophecy that mysteriously appeared to them in the night that they are destined to escape. Motivated with determination and purpose, they must develop a plan for freedom. What they don’t know is that past all the dangerous guards and the unsurpassable escape route is a surprise that will change their lives forever. Djanée loves writing songs, novels, poetry and singing. Her Christian faith is the cornerstone of her life. Inspired by the action and the adrenaline from three separate dreams in one night, what began as a mini-story on a few sheets of loose-leaf paper evolved into the digital writing of an 800 plus word story. The thrillers and twists in the story surprised her, and the different elements in the story wound up melding together flawlessly as though planned. Realizing this had to be more than happenstance she felt led to publish her book, which has become a series.
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
More Than Conquerors: On the Run by DJanée is an energetic and highly imaginative work of Christian speculative fiction, blending sci-fi, action, and faith themes into a fast-paced, futuristic narrative. At its heart, this is a story about perseverance, belief, and survival against overwhelming odds that’s a clear reflection of the author’s intent to fuse entertainment with deeper spiritual resonance.
The world-building is ambitious: a futuristic society layered with danger, advanced technology, and oppressive systems. Yet, at the core of it all is faith, which is presented not as a preachy addition but as an organic part of the characters’ journey. Author DJanée’s writing captures the urgency of the chase, the desperation of her characters, and the resilience required to keep moving forward, even when the world seems intent on crushing them.
What worked well for me was the sheer momentum of the narrative. There’s rarely a dull moment; the plot races along with the same relentless energy as its protagonists, who are constantly on the run, battling not only physical adversaries but their own doubts and fears as well.
However, at times, the execution wobbles slightly and some parts feel overwritten, certain characters could benefit from more depth, and the pacing occasionally sacrifices clarity for speed. That said, the message shines through: faith can be the anchor in the most turbulent of storms.
I’d recommend this book for readers who enjoy speculative fiction infused with faith, action, and a strong sense of purpose. Think of it as a futuristic spiritual thriller with heart.
Author: P.S. Bartlett Release Date: June 13, 2025 Series: Genre: Science-Fiction, Mystery, Romance, Aliens Format: E-book Pages: 295 pages Publisher: – Blurb: They told her she’d be studying human behavior. They never said the subject wasn’t human. Lana Delaney isn’t the kind of girl who chases adventure. A champion swimmer and psychology major, she keeps her world small—school, training, and staying invisible. But when her bold, unpredictable new roommate Willie bursts into her life, Lana starts to believe maybe she doesn’t have to hide forever. Everything changes when she accepts a summer internship at a classified research facility. Her assignment? To observe an unusual subject known only as Project J.
His name is Hiro. He isn’t human. And he’s been waiting for her. Trapped in a saltwater pool and fading fast, Hiro speaks through thoughts, memories, and something deeper Lana can feel. With the help of Logan—a conflicted but charming tech specialist—Lana begins to unravel a web of secrets, cover-ups, and buried truths. Now, caught between two powerful connections and a dangerous conspiracy, Lana must decide how far she is willing to go to save the only being who has ever truly seen her. Perfect for fans of Starman, Arrival, and The Host, Hiro-J: Energy is a romantic sci-fi thriller about memory, trust, and the invisible energy that binds us all.
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
Hiro-J: Energy by P.S. Bartlett is an absolute delightful read. It is a genre-bending fusion of science fiction, psychological drama, light romance, and quiet suspense that had me fully immersed from the first chapter. At its heart, this is not just an alien contact story — it’s an exploration of connection, trust, and the profound complexities of human (and non-human) empathy. Lana is written with remarkable tenderness: a young woman carrying subtle wounds, whose growing relationship with the alien being Hiro (or J) feels natural, emotional, and at times, surprisingly profound. The depiction of the telepathic bond between them is particularly well-handled — neither rushed nor over-sentimentalized. Instead, it unfolds with an intimacy that makes every moment between them compelling.
What impressed me most was the restraint in the pacing — the story takes its time, allowing us to sit with Lana’s doubts, her growing intrigue, and the psychological weight of being at the center of something far bigger than herself. The ethical layers — about science, exploitation, and autonomy — give the narrative extra depth without overwhelming its core. And Hiro as a character who is non-human yet beautifully relatable, stays with you long after the book ends.
Structurally speaking, the book balances dialogue and introspection quiet well, and despite the heavy themes, it never feels bogged down. The prose is crisp, accessible, yet thoughtful and that’s just the way a novel like this should read.
For readers who enjoy character-driven sci-fi with a touch of mystery and emotional resonance, HiroJ: Energy is a highly rewarding read. It is emotionally intelligent and has enough intrigue and suspense to cater to different kinds of readers.
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: Dexter Johnson Release Date: December 9, 2024 Series: Genre: Science-Fiction, Dystopian, Speculative Fiction Format: E-book Pages: 269 pages Publisher: – Blurb: In the year 2160, EchoTech has revolutionized how people experience the world. With its cutting-edge devices, anyone can relive—or even “live”—any memory, turning personal recollections into a form of entertainment for the masses. Memories are no longer just what we remember; they’re experiences to be consumed, shared, and sold.
Brendan, a devoted user of EchoTech, regularly escapes into the memories of others through his EchoVisor. But when his routine existence is suddenly shattered by unexpected events, Brendan is thrust into a hidden world of secrets, conspiracies, and shocking revelations that challenge everything he thought he knew. As Brendan embarks on a journey to uncover the truth, he begins to confront the deeper questions of what it truly means to live. In a society where memories are bought and sold, the line between reality and illusion blurs—and Brendan must navigate this complex new reality to find answers about identity, human connection, and the price of experience.
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 5 out of 5.
Penny for Your Memories by Dexter Johnson is an absolute gem of a sci-fi thriller that grabbed me from page one and didn’t let go. Set in the year 2160, it introduces a future where memories aren’t just personal anymore—they’re commodities to be consumed, shared, and even sold. EchoTech’s ingenious devices make it possible to dive into other people’s recollections, and this fascinating premise alone was enough to hook me.
The protagonist, Brendan, is a regular user of EchoTech’s EchoVisor, comfortably lost in the memories of others. But when his seemingly routine life takes a dark turn, the story unfolds into a gripping journey of secrets, conspiracies, and mind-bending revelations. Brendan’s transformation from a passive observer to someone actively questioning his reality is beautifully paced and layered with emotional depth. His struggles felt quiet relatable, even amidst the futuristic backdrop.
What I absolutely loved about this book is how it brilliantly blended the plot twists with thought-provoking questions. What does it mean to truly live? How do we define reality in a world dominated by manufactured experiences? Author Johnson doesn’t just craft an exciting story; he forces one to think long after the book is over.
The world-building is incredibly immersive, from the sleek, futuristic gadgets to the eerie consequences of a society built on memory manipulation. Author Johnson’s writing is simple yet cinematic—I could see every detail as if I were wearing an EchoVisor myself!
If you’re a fan of speculative fiction that challenges your perception of reality while delivering edge-of-your-seat thrills, Penny for Your Memories is a must-read!
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:Terrance Coffey Release Date: January 17, 2024 Series: Genre: Science-Fiction, Suspense, Thriller Format: E-book Pages: 310 pages Publisher: Helm House Blurb: Body snatchers. Mind control. An invasion almost too clever to be caught. Read the most chilling sci fi suspense thriller in years… A seemingly normal six-year-old named Kaden is concealing a profound mystery. He possesses an uncanny wisdom beyond his tender age, navigating the world independently, and wielding an eerie influence over those around him, even his parents.Yet Kaden is not alone in his inexplicable nature. In the quiet town of Lynch, Kentucky, peculiar occurrences spiral out of control. Mysterious chasms materialize from thin air, individuals of all ages vanish without a trace, and the populace succumbs to an eerie force, enveloped by an otherworldly blue haze. Amidst the chaos stands Clay Krutcher, a disenchanted coal miner unwittingly holding the key to unraveling these anomalies. Little does he know, the fate of humanity rests squarely on his shoulders. Can Clay defy his own destiny, confront the inhuman force lurking beneath the surface, and save our world from impending annihilation? The countdown to The Surfacing has begun, and time is running out.
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
The Surfacing by Terrance Coffey is a riveting and thought-provoking read. Coffey weaves a chilling tale of mystery, suspense, and existential dread that kept me on the edge of my seat from start to finish.
The story centres around the enigmatic six-year-old Kaden, whose seemingly innocent demeanour belies a profound and unsettling mystery. As strange occurrences begin to unfold in the quiet town of Lynch, Kentucky, Coffey masterfully builds tension and suspense, drawing readers into a world where reality itself seems to be unravelling.
What I found most compelling about The Surfacing is Coffey’s skilful blend of science fiction and psychological thriller elements. The concept of body snatchers, mind control, and an invasion from within is executed with precision and flair, creating a narrative that is both deeply unsettling and utterly captivating.
Overall, The Surfacing is a must-read for lovers of sci-fi suspense thrillers. With its gripping plot, well-developed characters, and spine-tingling atmosphere, this book is sure to leave readers eagerly anticipating Coffey’s next masterpiece.
Author:DC Allen Release Date: 11th March 2021 Series: Genre: Science-Fiction, Speculative Fiction Format: E-book Pages: 128 pages Publisher: Demodocus Publishing LLC Blurb: “Stand in Hell, But Reach For Heaven.” Rekha is a Disciple of Obcasus: science-worshiping zealots who live deep beneath a poisonous volcano and await the sign to arise and conquer the world. While her fellow Disciples are content to recite violent oaths and practice a form of combat based on instantaneous genetic modifications, Rekha is consumed with doubts. After she instigates a mêlée that goes horribly awry, she is cast out. Now separated from the only life she knows, the young heretic stumbles into the heart of a mystery seven generations in the making, and the reckoning that follows. If the Obcasian Death Cult’s apocalyptic dogma is true, what comes next?
CREATRIX OF STRIFE is a literary anthem realized in lyrical, mind-bending, and brutal prose. Set in an arcane, minutely detailed world where troglodytic saints weaponize their own DNA and the main defense against volcanic death is a massive clockwork defense system, Rekha’s tale is a thrilling science fiction adventure, but also the account of an outcast channeling her frustration into strength and finding purpose in a storm of uncertainty.
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4.5 out of 5.
Creatrix Of Strife by DC Allen is a powerfully-written and amazingly gripping new science-fiction novel about gene modification, science-worshipping zealots and DNA weaponisation against volcanic death – all this and so much MORE!
This book started on a high note and, thankfully, kept up with it all throughout the story till the very end. I enjoyed reading it because of the level of detailing of the word-building, realistically developed characters, especially that of Rekha, and some other secondary characters who added a lot of emotional depth to the main and sub-plots of the story and the flow of the writing which made reading this book a quick and fun experience.
Overall this book had a lot of elements that kept me hooked right from the start to the very last page! It has an amazing concept, a very engaging and entertaining storyline and a well-developed and excellently executed plot. Overall this book has a lot to offer to its readers (ages 14+) and I would strongly recommend it to everyone who likes reading science-fiction and speculative fiction genres.
Author: Jenny Benjamin Release Date: 2nd September 2022 Series: The Terrian Trilogy (Book #2) Genre: Young-Adult, Science-Fiction Fantasy, High Fantasy Format: E-book Pages: 267 pages Publisher: – Blurb: Book Two begins ten days after the events of Book One with Jesse, Kate, and Hayden traveling in the found alien ship and trailing the Gelfs who have kidnapped Sofia. Plagued with rage and guilt because of Sofia’s capture, Jesse finds himself losing control of his emotions and the Triumvirate’s mission to bring peace to two worlds—Earth and Terria. Tensions, attractions, and powers crackle with energy in the second installment of the Terrian Trilogy. Jesse and his friends discover new abilities, face hybrid beasts, and carry out rescue missions on Terria. What else? More revelations about Terria’s corruption? Genetic modification? The unveiling of a terrifying plot by Terria’s faction leaders? Yes. Maybe. Jesse and his friends are called to act.
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
Corrupted by Jenny Benjamin is the second book in the new young-adult sci-fi-fantasy Terrain trilogy This book begins right where the first book, Enhanced left off so it would be ideal to read this series in order.
This book took the plot of the last book further, exploring amazing new avenues and sub-plots and with some new characters added to the mix that explored the world of this trilogy further, it made for an excellent read. I was able to understand the motivations and drives of the characters better in this part as they were explored on a yet deeper level, facing new perils that tested their strengths and grit.
I am looking forward to reading the next and the last part of this trilogy as I know it would answer some questions that this book had given rise to. But most of all, I really want to see how things end for the main characters, Jesse, Kate and Hayden.
I would strongly recommend this book (and the series) to all science-fiction readers and to high-fantasy enthusiasts who love reading well-developed and realistic young-adult characters.
Author: Jenny Benjamin Release Date: 1st October 2021 Series: The Terrian Trilogy (Book #1) Genre: Young-Adult, Science-Fiction Fantasy, High Fantasy Format: E-book Pages: 260 pages Publisher: – Blurb: Jesse Woods – drum line maestro, track star, honors student – is a standout as one of the only Black students at a suburban Chicago high school. His well-organized world is thrown into chaos when his school is attacked by an alien species, Terrians, who have been playing gods throughout human history. Jesse and two others from the drumline, Kate and Hayden, are pulled into an epic alien conspiracy and forced on a quest to retrieve an ancient artifact that will help decide the victory in the battle for planet Earth. The three teenagers will face impossible odds and fight the powerful enemies, as well as their own demons, to protect their loved ones and save the world they know. Yeah, right, what else, locusts? Dragons in the sky? Alien ships? War between worlds? Armageddon? Yes. Maybe. Only Jesse and his friends can stop it.
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
Enhanced by Jenny Benjamin is the first book in the new young-adult sci-fi-fantasy Terrain trilogy. This book marked an excellent beginning of what could be a potentially amazing trilogy. This book had everything that I had expected and SO MUCH MORE!
The concept is brilliant setting a strong foundation not only for this book but for the next two books as well and the author’s writing kept the flow of the story very fluid and smooth making it a flawless experience. The characters were well-built and the world-building was up to the mark, the creatures/monsters were terrific and the detailing in the book was commendable. Overall this book made for a fantastically engrossing read and had me hooked right from the beginning till the very end, making me want to jump into the next book right away (which, of course, I did!)
I would strongly recommend this book to all science-fiction readers and to high-fantasy enthusiasts who love reading well-developed and realistic young-adult characters.
Author:Bob Freeman Release Date: 3rd August 2022 Series: H2LiftShips (Book #3) Genre: Science-Fiction Format: E-book Pages: 326 pages Publisher: Indies United Publishing House, LLC Blurb: We’ve tried to make a nice, friendly Space Opera. Sure it has passive-aggressive families, gambling, cheating, and double-dealing, but nice. Still, watch your back. SolarSail Cargo ships travel between the populated asteroids and Goldilocks Core. And now HiveMother at the Heliopause and the HiveSisters in the Heliotail are fighting. It may turn into a full-fledged bioGel War.
The Solar Sail crew of BosonsWave and Captain Herb, an Eastern mountain gorilla in the Heliospheric Navy, are fighting the algae rocket ships for control of the bioGels. On one side, we have tools and weapons invented by the sentients after eons of development: bioGel laser rifles, HAM radios, ship-to-ship bolas, nuclear bombs, biological weapons, and a tomato surprise. On the other side, accumulations of brainless algae have joined with angry bioGel computers calling the shots. Captain Graciela, her crew, and the Heliospheric Navy have a battle on their hands.
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
H2LiftShip: BosonsWave by Bob Freeman is the third book in the H2LiftShip series and a sequel to H2LiftShips: A Back Story. In this part, the last part of the trilogy, most of everything comes together providing the readers with a coherent and a much-needed respite-full ending.
The writing was much better in this book and the world-building went up a notch as did the characterisation as well as pretty much every other aspect. I am now really looking forward to exploring other titles by the author in the near future.
I enjoyed this book a lot, and this series, on the whole too, and would definitely recommend it to all science-fiction readers and to sci-fi-fantasy readers too.
Author:Bob Freeman Release Date: 21st February 2021 Series: H2LiftShips (Book #2) Genre: Science-Fiction Format: E-book Pages: 325 pages Publisher: Indies United Publishing House Blurb: Trading and dealing for a living is just what the LunaCola’s crew is doing to get by. But everybody (or octopus) has a backstory, and the members of the crew have more than enough to reminisce. There’s nothing quite like sitting down to play cards, celebrating a job well done, and recollecting the past but there’s still plenty that still has to come to light. The big questions, such as how in the galaxy did the born-and-bred asteroid citizen learn to drive sports cars on Earth? Are the bioGels Sentient? The even bigger question is, are they plotting against their owners? And what dark secrets is Jack harboring behind his fears of prison? Those answers and more. Plus: Do octopuses really think that they are better than the terrestrials? (spoiler, yes they do, and there’s a story there as well.)
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
H2LiftShip: A Back Story by Bob Freeman is the second book in the series and a sequel to Beyond Luna. After the first book, which was written in a very unique was more like a technical manual than a straight story, this book had a more coherent storyline that was easier to follow making this book a tad better than the first one (though I did like the first one too, it’s just the flow that I am referring to here in terms of being better.)
This book had a lot of interesting insights, more side-plots and character development and helped the overall world-building for the entire series to a great extent so I really liked this book too. Now I am looking forward to finishing the last book in this series (which I have already started!)
Again, I’d recommend this book to anyone who has read the first book in this series and anyone wanting to explore a new sci-fi series or a sci-fi author.
Author:Bob Freeman Release Date: 24th March 2021 Series: H2LiftShips (Book #1) Genre: Science-Fiction Format: E-book Pages: 338 pages Publisher: Indies United Publishing House Blurb: H2LiftShips, a tech manual for a futureImagine a world, exactly like ours, but differentPart Road-Trip, part solar sailing, always with food, gambling, jail, and pirates, not necessarily in that order No: Aliens, Monsters, blasters, pyrotechnic computers, or Anti-Grav powered rockets. Yes: Lasers, Primates, Canines, Octopus, Space Travel via Solar Sails, and the rare Rocket Ship.No violence, except for the spinning meat bolas and asteroid pebbles coming to the defense of their home rock.
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
Beyond Luna is the first book in the H2LiftShip science-fiction series by author Bob Freeman. This book was so wildly adventurous that I could not stop myself from starting to read the next book in the series right after I was done reading this book. But first things first, this book had an amazing plot, excellent execution of that plot, good writing to bring it to life and well-built characters to bring it all together.
It was an immensely immersive read and the world-building was simply out of the world (pud definitely intended 😉 I liked the authors writing and the new creatures in the book were definitely created with a lot of careful consideration. I enjoyed reading about them and cared enough about their character development to read the entire book and was left wanting to read more.
I would definitely suggest this book to all science-fiction readers who are looking for a new series to start.
Author: Joshua Veridical Release Date: 1st Febrauary 2022 Series: Genre: Spiritualism, Philosophy Format: E-book Pages: 152 pages Publisher: Blurb: In the Rush of living our life, it is true that we forget Purpose of life. Religion keeps us disciplined and shows us the path to find that purpose. There are many monks, Spiritual Leaders and Priests who guide us to maintain stability in life and help our soul grow. This book takes you in the unusual journey of Spiritualism where the purpose of life is found by our main protagonist but in a very unusual way.
Review
⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 3 out of 5.
I Am Not God by Joshua Veridical is a book based on the spiritual journey of the main protagonist that tackles many philosophical questions about life and its meaning in general. Overall the book is a decent read and proved to be a quick read. The main character, although not extremely relatable, was likeable enough for me to be able to read the entire book to learn more about his journey.
I did feel that the book needed more polishing as the writing felt a bit rough and could have been better, but of course, that is my personal opinion and being an editor myself I do have tough standards when it comes to writing style, especially in Indian literature.
This book would be perfect for readers of philosophical books and spiritual enthusiasts.
Author: Xander Black Release Date: 14th March 2022 Series: Game On (Book #1) Genre: Science-Fiction Fantasy, Adventure, Humour Format: E-book Pages: 445 pages Publisher: BC BOOKS Blurb: WELCOME TO THE METAVERSE 2065: the streets are abandoned, shops are empty, parks are silent. But is that really much of a surprise when you can connect to the Cybernet? Everyone can turn on, log in and drop out. Cyrus, a failed physicist, and drop-out game designer Everett are on the cusp of their big breakthrough into the meta ranks of Neverborn, the world’s most popular game.
But when several high-profile avatars disappear, and their human counterparts are found dead, Cyrus and Everett find themselves under suspicion. They must clear their names and unravel the deeper mysteries of Brith and the Neverborn. In doing so, they will uncover a dark secret, that threatens not only the game-world but the safety of their physical realm.
Satire, science fiction, fantasy, and mystery combine in an epic adventure where no one ever leaves home, perfect for fans of Ready Player One and Douglas Adams.
Review
⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 3 out of 5.
Meta by Xander Black is a new science-fiction fantasy adventure novel based on the concept of MMORPG (Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Game) in a PSW (a persistent state world) where millions of players can develop their characters in virtual reality. In simple terms, this book is based on a future where people spend most of their lives in virtual reality instead of living a normal life in the real world.
This book was a decent read though it did remind me too much of Ready Player One (which I thoroughly loved.) At some point, it got a bit overwhelming and I wanted to quit reading it, though knowing better, and trying not to draw comparisons between the two books because of their common concept, I kept reading and finished the book in the hopes that it would be different and I’m glad that I did because this book proved to be a good read with a nice ending.
I liked the writing because it had a good flow but the efforts of the author to try and sound like Douglas Adam-ish felt pretty annoying and seemed to have killed the author’s natural writing style. I found the satire a bit forced and not correctly executed. Also, the book felt to have been lacking decent editing, it may be because I was sent a review copy and not the final book, but the copy if the copy I have and the final book are the same then the book obviously has editing issues. If the book’s final version is well-edited, it should make for a better read. Apart from these issues, as I previously said, the book was a decent read and would be a great fit for sci-fi and adventure genre readers.
Author:Tiffany Brazell Release Date: 20th December 2020 Genre: Epic Fantasy Series: The God’s Game Series (Book #1) Format: E-book Pages: 252 pages Publisher: Regalis Publishing, LLC Blurb: The Destroyer’s Empire Part 1 is the first book in The God’s Game, a new epic fantasy series by Tiffany Brazell. A cursed world… An immortal empress… A girl with forbidden knowledge and unknown power… Although she has read all about Vias the Destroyer’s dreaded liths, Salmaara has never seen one. In fact, she’s not even sure the nightmarish, mouthless creatures exist. She’s never been to Mauvias, land created by the goddess Vias the Destroyer, ruled by a ruthless immortal empress, a place where the very air is cursed with insatiable thirst, or to the ancient city Kalitoomba, a city of soaring glass towers ruled by a benevolent god-king. Following her rescue from a river, Salmaara lives a quiet life working in her father’s pottery shop, trying to discover who she is in a town where her golden eyes and fair skin make it clear she doesn’t belong. Illun, the man she loves as her father, is keeping a secret. An important secret.
Her looks aren’t the only thing that makes her different. Salmaara can sense where people are by their souls, and can connect her soul to theirs. One morning, she reaches for the feeling of her father’s soul and hears his thoughts, something she thought only the servants of the Destroyer could do. Before she can discover what it means, one of the liths appears, takes her captive, and carries her away to the gruesome prison city of Günhai, where even the stones cry out in pain. Within its lightproof halls, Salmaara will have to decide, will she do what she’s told, and become a pet, a tool of the empire, of the destroyer herself? Or, will she have to risk her life and very soul, to discover who she truly is and how her powers will be used?
“Imaginative and vast, The God’s Game Series is a big story vividly told, sure to satisfy fans of epic fantasy.”
Kevin J. Anderson, New York Times bestselling author of The Saga of Seven Suns.
“Tiffany Brazell’s imagination takes off where others’ end. This is a tale of high magic that is sure to please.”
David Farland, New York Times bestselling author of The Runelords.
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
Prisoner Of Mauvias by Tiffany Brazell is the first book in The God’s Game series – an epic fantasy series. This book is an adventurous journey that will take you on a rollercoaster ride of emotions where dangers are lurking behind every turn.
It is a fast-paced fantasy read that follows a simple yet meticulous plot structure that keeps the action tight throughout the story. This book had good, if not superb, characterisation. I was able to connect to or relate with most of the characters, secondary as well as primary. I enjoyed reading this book and am really looking forward to reading the next part in the series as I am sure the characterisation would be further developed in it.
I would definitely recommend this book to all fantasy readers.
Author:R.J. O’Sullivan Release Date: 15th December 2021 Genre: Science-Fiction, Political Satire Series: Format: E-book Pages: 235 pages Publisher: RHELM, LLC Blurb: After losing his entire family to COVID, the baseball-obsessed heir to a corporate empire uses his family fortune to hit the re-set button on America. Concocting a plot to kidnap a million QAnon followers for the purpose of “deprogramming” them, Jamie Whistler takes the lessons learned from playing his favorite simulation game and applies them to the real world.
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
Jamie Whistler Plays Out Of The Park Baseball Because It’s The Only Thing That Matters by R.J. O’Sullivan is a unique and refreshing new political satire sci-fi novel.
This book has an intelligent plot, well-written prose to complement it and a cast of interesting and engaging characters that made this book a compelling read. The author has used his amazing sense of humour and subtle phrases to take digs on the current political scenarios, especially relating to the Covid-19 pandemic, drawing the readers attention to the real matter that should be of concern to all of us.
I loved reading this book and would definitely recommend it to all reads of satire and political fiction who won’t mind a sci-fi setting.
Author: Dmitry Pavlovsky Release Date: 26th December 2021 Genre: Science-Fiction, Space-Opera, Action, Space-Adventure Series: Format: E-book Pages: 276 pages Publisher: Lulu.com Blurb: The Great Barrier is an irradiated wasteland of magnetars, black holes and supernovae, spanning millions of light years in every direction. Igniting behind the last of the generation ships that clawed their way to these new stars, it slammed the doors shut on them, cutting off their only way back. Now, after centuries of colonial fragmentation, infighting and isolation, an ancient ship of unknown origin has washed up on the cosmic shores of the barrier.
And a long forgotten mystery has reopened its wounds. With time running out before the ship is sucked back into a stellar ocean of deadly radiation, a retired intelligence officer is forced to assemble a first response team consisting of a disillusioned field medic, a pair of space divers with serious trust issues and an assassin with an exotic battle chassis for a body. But to complete the team, he’ll need someone to pilot their decommissioned subship “The Abyss”. And the only choice he has left is a washed up racer, who’d rather be anywhere else but back in the pilot’s seat.
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
Burn Of The Abyss by Dimitry Pavlovsky is a new sci-fi and space adventure novel that will take you in the depths of outer space and leave you wanting for more!
I enjoyed this book as it remained me of the classical space-fantasies that were written with careful attention to detail. Author Dimitri has done an excellent job in creating realistic characters, the world and a good storyline. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book from the beginning till the very last page.
The writing is good, the characterisation is realistic and well-done and the pacing is great throughout the book along with the tension. I would definitely recommend this book to all science-fiction readers and to those who are looking to explore books by new authors.
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: 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.
Today, we are featuring David, the lead characters from The Lodestar by Daniel Hagedorn, for our Character Interview feature.
About The Author
Daniel Hagedorn
Daniel Hagedorn lives in Seattle, Washington, where he was born and raised, with his wife and elderly dog. An alum of Pacific Lutheran University with a couple of humanities degrees, he now splits his time between writing and helping various businesses and entities do what they do. He has written a number of novels, poems, and countless other musings. The Lodestar is his first published novel.
Welcome to TRB! We are really excited to have you over. Please give our readers a brief introduction about yourself before we begin.
My name is David Jones. I would tell you more about myself, but I am not entirely sure. I have bits and pieces of memories, experiences that I feel like I lived, but I have my doubts because I live in an age where reality and fantasy mix. Some of the time, I feel like I have two minds, that I am of two wits, and I can’t always reconcile which is which, and which is me. Who am I? I don’t always know.
What is your age and what do you do for a living?
I am probably in my thirties. Again, I don’t know for sure. I don’t feel any older or wiser, however old I am. As I live in a world that celebrates youth, everyone looks young. No one looks like their age. Even my sense of time, which is how we mark age, seems altered. It might be a strange thing not to know how old I am, but it’s not anything I think about it. There’s no fixation on age when everyone appears perpetually young. Retirement is not even a concept. We all have jobs, essential and important jobs. I am a systems analyst class 1A (A for Architect). I monitor and keep track of things, same as a lot of people, but what I keep track of is more important, yet my job isn’t any more important than another. This is a paradox I readily accept. Without everyone doing their job, our world would cease to function. Everyone has purpose and they know it.
How do you like to spend your free time?
I spend my free time much like everyone else. There is the SIM, the simulated, virtual world, a construct we use for both work and pleasure as the SIM can be shared with real people or representations of people, simulacra. I have memories of doing other things, reading and walking and traveling to new places, but I also have firmly in my mind, the SIM. I don’t know for sure if I went to those places or if it was merely an experience in the SIM. I have books, the great works of fiction and other ideas. I don’t remember reading them, but I know I have read them. Why? Because I have notebooks full of things I’ve written, my thoughts and recollections as well as ideas that could only have come from those books.
Please share some of your beliefs, principles, motivations and morals (can be social, religious or political or, etc.) Anything that will help us get to know you better.
It’s not that I don’t believe in God. I happen to be in a world where the concept of God no longer exists. You see, with the network, God remains unnecessary. We are beyond good and evil. I am not sure how I feel about that. I have a sense there is a God within us all, but I don’t know how to explain it because no one understands God. I believe strongly in quality over quantity, that certain things cannot be measured by a number, a metric, reduceable to a single value. In fact, I never believed the network could be programmed to understand the human condition. To me it has never been so much what something looks like, but what it actually is, what lies beneath, not the surface appeal but the underlining form. In the world I live in, seeing is believing and the world we see, like the people and places, is undeniably beautiful and perfect. Is there any need to go deeper?
Tell us something about your family and childhood.
I do not remember much about my family, even my childhood. Again, I have mere fragments that come to me, but I wonder whether they are real or just things I have experienced in the SIM. I have memories of childhood, we all do. The summer, being out of school, the seaside boardwalk with its carnival sounds and amusement park attractions. But how real are they? I wonder. When I visit my therapist in the SIM, she tries to get me to talk about my family, about my father, in particular, but I can never quite get there. It seems to me she knows more about that part of my life than I do. She says that I know, that I could know many things, yet I tell myself I don’t know, so it’s just a cycle I can’t break out of. I am not sure I believe her. I know my therapist is a product of the combined knowledge of psychotherapy, that she has a window into who I am, but if all that were really true, then why doesn’t she just tell me what I should say? Oh wait, that was before we were all connected. I don’t know if I’ve been in therapy since.
Tell us something about your dreams and aspirations? Were you able to achieve them or are you planning to?
Once I had dreams, real dreams, perhaps even hopes. It’s not fair to say I don’t have them anymore, rather I just know they are different. I once believed I could do great things, be accomplished because I had a purpose. I struggle to know that purpose now that I am not connected to the network. I know I have Marta, she’s my lodestar, and that somehow she is meant to guide me. Even Dante needed a guide. But I don’t know what we’ll find if we make it out of the network. What’s on the other side? And supposing we do get there, and it’s inhabitable, is there anything left of humanity? I am careful not to have too much hope, to believe too much in anything except Marta. I had my doubts at first, but I know she is real. So, for the moment, all I can believe in is Marta and I.
What is your biggest fear in life?
I fear that I cannot change who I am, that I cannot alter what has been set in motion, and like Sisyphus, all my efforts will be doomed. I disconnected myself from the networked world for a reason. But why? And was that something I did or someone else? Either way, maybe I am meant to do something that I am unable to do? That thought paralyzes me. That I am simply not good enough.
How would you describe your life in one sentence?
Am I just a cog in the machine, or have I found there is no machine?
What is the worst thing that has ever happened to you?
The worst thing that happened to me must have been something in the childhood I can’t remember. Those were formative years. Whatever happened then, fixed itself in my head, imprinted its code upon my brain such that I have a distrust for systems, of unity, of groups of people making decisions for the common good. Ultimately, the brain constructs our reality, and without the network assistance, I have to rely on my instincts which tell me to question everything.
Did it change you for the better or the worse?
There is good and bad that comes from every experience. The very thing that at times is a great strength, is a great weakness too. Like kindness. It’s good to be kind. However, being too kind can result in being taken advantage of. In that sense, my skepticism is useful, but it is also the very thing that has driven me apart from people. At a certain point, I have to take a leap of faith and accept things, but more often than not, I am reluctant to make the jump. And yet, rather than even trying, I tend to want to plunge to the depths, so rather than ascend, I descend. I push people away, push them too far so that it takes an extraordinary effort and determination for them to remain. And yet, I found Marta. Or she found me. That must be something special.
What are your plans for the future?
Love is the mystery of all mysteries. I find myself imagining a future with Marta, but where that is and what that entails, I don’t know. If we make it out of the network, I know we will look different. Maybe even we will seem different. Will we still love each other? Is our connection really that deep, beyond the mere appearance of our bodies? What will we be like left to our own devises? I don’t have the answers. All I have is Marta, my lodestar.
The Lodestar
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.
If you are an author and wish to be interviewed or if you are a publicist and want to get your author interviewed on TRB, then please get in touch through direct e-mail: thereadingbud@gmail.com
So we are planning to have a buddy-read over at RMFAO, my Goodreads Book Club.
It will be a month-long buddy read and we have some really great book options to select from. For the month of October, we’ve picked books released in 2020 that’ve been garnering the attention of the online book community. For this list of books, please see below. We have a poll on RMFAO’s homepage and anyone who is a member fo the group can vote there.
We will select the book with maximum votes and in case of a tie, we will have both the books with maximum votes as our BOOK OF THE MONTH and will read it (or them) in the month of October. As it is a month-long buddy read, you can join us anytime throughout October, the only requirement is to finish the book before the end of October.
We will be discussing the Book Of The Month throughout the month of October on a separate dedicated thread in the group itself but will be maintaining a spoiler-free policy till at least we reach the ‘more than half the month’ mark. After that even spoilers would be welcome as most of the readers tend to finish the book by then.
Which book would you like to read for the month of October? (Please vote only if you plan to join the Buddy Read. Don’t worry about the book, we’ll be more than happy to provide you the ebook if you really want to participate in the read with us.)
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: 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:Rob Shackleford Release Date: 25th February 2017 Genre: Time-Travel, Historical, Science-Fiction Series: Traveller (Book #1) Edition: E-book Pages: Publisher: Book Baby Blurb: If you were sent 1000 years into the past, would you survive?
Traveller – Inceptio describes how the Transporter is accidentally invented and becomes public knowledge when it sends a subject 1000 years into the past.
A Special Forces team of Travellers is then selected and trained with the intent to send them to Saxon England to explore what could be a very dangerous period of history.
From the beaches of Australia to the forests of Saxon England, Traveller – Inceptio reveals how Travellers discover they need a lot more than technology to survive the trials of early Eleventh Century life.
Book Review
★★+1/2
Traveller Inceptio by Rob Shackleford is a time-travel story set 1000 years in the past, through the machine that was invented by mistake. What follows next is an interesting tale about how our ever-so-reliable-science-and-technology can’t bail us out of dangerous situations and how power-hungry people can go to any lengths in order to get their hands on any new invention that can trip the scales in their favour.
The story was good and pretty engaging. The events were interesting and some of them even capturing. The overall world-building was good and the pacing was even. I enjoyed the book on the whole but had a couple of issues both with the plot and the writing. The author went overboard with the exposition, as a result of which I found myself skimming over a lot of pages. The beginning of the book and the base of the story felt a bit weak as it seemed too far-fetched a concept to have actually invented a time-travel machine that travels only certain years and then has the ability to come back when summoned too. I mean the concept could have been a bit more believable if the machine had at least some faults and wouldn’t have been this perfect. After all, it was a result of a mistake.
But after the first part was over, the story only got better. The research appeared to be impeccable and the story got more and more interesting, save for the exhausting bits of exposition. The plot started to feel realistic and I was able to connect with it once the first part was over.
Characterization, unfortunately, felt like another lingering problem as I had a hard time connecting with the characters. They were not badly created, but they weren’t overly impressive nor relatable. I just liked them enough to have been able to read and finish the story (which seemed to be much longer than it should have.)
Overall, I think the book needed a bit more tweaking and that a good editor would have been able to make this book much better. Still, it was an enjoyable read.
Author: Clive Fleury Release Date: 5th December 2018 Genre: Science-Fiction, Dystopian Series: The Sunset Of Magic (Book #3) Edition: E-book Pages: 220 Publisher: TCK Publishing Blurb: WHEN THE OCEANS RISE…THE TRUTH DROWNS
It’s the year 2031. Our future. Their present. A world decimated by climate catastrophe, where the sun’s heat is deadly and the ocean rises higher every day. A world ruled by the rich, powerful, and corrupt. A world where a good man can’t survive for long.
Hogan Duran was a good man once. He was a cop, forced to resign in disgrace when he couldn’t save his partner from a bullet. Now Hogan lives on the fraying edges of society, serving cruel masters and scavenging trash dumps just to survive.
But after four years of living in poverty, Hogan finally gets a chance to get back on his feet. He’s invited to join the National Security Council, the powerful paramilitary organization responsible for protecting the rich and powerful from the more unsavory elements of society. All he needs to do is pass their deadly entrance exam, and he’ll be rewarded with wealth and opportunity beyond his wildest dreams.
But this ex-cop’s path to redemption won’t be easy. The NSC are hiding something, and as Hogan descends deeper and deeper into their world, he starts to uncover the terrible truth of how the powerful in this new world maintain their power…and just how far they will go to protect their secrets.
In a world gone wrong, can one man actually make a difference, or will he die trying? Kill Code is the first novel in an exciting new dystopian science fiction series from the mind of the award-winning author, screenwriter, and director Clive Fleury.
REVIEW
★★★★
Kill Code by Clive Fleury is a smashing dystopian read that was equal parts engaging and unsettling.
The dystopian settings in the book felt very realistic and, to be honest, seemed like a possibility for our own future. What I really liked about this book is that instead of focusing only on the dystopic settings and the new world, something that most of the authors writing in this genre tend to do, the author focused on the National Security Council (NSC), the elite force to protect the elite class in this horrible new world. The book had some really gritty action scenes which made the plot all the more exciting.
The characterization was strong and the inner conflicts of the MC, Hogan Duran, made it even better as I was able to connect with him. The plot-progression was great and the pacing and tension well tuned. The writing was good and complimented the plot making it easy as well as quick to read.
In a sentence, I enjoyed this book from the first page to the last one and would recommend it to all dystopian readers.
Author: Alistair Potter Release Date: 13th May 2014 Genre: Science-Fiction-Fantasy, Thriller, Action, Adventure, Magic-Elementals Series: The Sunset Of Magic (Book #1) Edition: E-book Pages: 272 Publisher: – Blurb: There’s; world jumping magic, Dragons, ruthless invaders, epic battles, unlikely heroes, bravery, sacrifice, and a steam cannon worthy of Archimedes! And yes it does have wizards, both good and very bad. Romance? Yes, a little of that too! What more do you want in an adventure story?
A disparate band: fussy spinster, Ida Fairweather; crusty old soldier, Endor Caffri; dishonest manservant, Moleskin; King’s guard, Lineth, and Last of the Trollid, Bort, engage in a desperate struggle against the Harrowen invaders.
REVIEW
★★★+1/2
The Last Trollid by Allistair Potter is the start to a new series The Sunset Of Magic. After having read three other books by the author, I was confident that this book is going to be a smashing read, and, thankfully, to a great extent, it was. Just like his previous books, this book had a brilliant premise and an amazingly awesome world built with a great deal of detailing. The pacing and tension were good as they both had good highs and lows and the overall progression of the plot can’t be faulted. So all in all, it was a good read.
My only problem was with the characterization, somehow, unlike in the previous instances, I was not able to feel a connection to either of the characters. I liked Bort and even Ida and Moleskin to some extent, but that was all, I just liked them enough to be able to read the book without wanting to stop, but not more than that. Still, I enjoyed the book, if for nothing than for the plot and some of the high-tension battle scenes and the ending, which was really well written.
I’d recommend this book to all science-fiction readers, especially who prefer plot over characters.
Author:Alistair Potter Release Date: 27th April 2017 Genre: Science-Fiction, Action, Mystery Series: Edition: E-book Pages: 214 Publisher: – Blurb: Perax Frontier, a place like no other! Bathed in the constant glow of the Interface connecting two Universes, the frontier townships of Praxton, and Millaki on the Atlathian side, function without any electrically based technologies. Set against this unusual background, and fighting the hierarchal restrictions of Imperial society, Sheriff Artur Perax investigates the murder of Imperial Ambassador, Madam Lintsa Kroft. And all the time still keeping order among the visitors, frustrated scientists, religious fanatics, misfits, reformed felons and plain good folks who keep the flow of trade goods moving across the Interface.
Book Review
★★★★+1/2
A well-written hardcore sci-fi mystery which will keep you engaged from the start right till the very last page. An intricately woven mystery, expertly punctuated with intense action scenes, underlined with enough drama to make you want to keep reading further, highlighted by believable characters – this book was a complete rollercoaster ride!
The ending was good and very fitting. The pacing was really good and the tension was at an all-time high. The prose was tight and easy to read and overall it was a complete package. I enjoyed it thoroughly and would recommend it to all hardcore sci-fi lovers.
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The Reading Bud 