CAEZIK

Revised (2026) and illustrated, book one of the iconic Halfblood Chronicle series by two Grandmasters of Speculative Fiction. The long-awaited final (fourth) book in the series is landing on shelves soon. Scroll down for the publishing schedule of the complete four-book series.

Release schedule for the complete HalfBlood Chronicles series.

Book One: Elvenbane (revised, illustrated), May 12, 2026
Book Two: Elvenblood (revised, illustrated), June 16, 2026
Book Three: Elvenborn (revised, illustrated), July 14, 2026
Book Four: Elvenbread (new, illustrated). August 18. 2026

On July 4, 1983, Vivian Carter and her NASA crew of seven set off on an audacious double flyby of Venus and Mars, a two-year mission with repurposed Apollo technology that will push their ingenuity and resourcefulness to the limit. Meanwhile, superpower conflicts escalate on Earth, mirrored by a dangerously unstable arms race and battles for valuable mineral resources on the Moon. Full-up lunar military actions and treacherous sneak attacks decimate Vivian’s friends, allies and colleagues on both sides of the Iron Curtain and threaten everything she has worked to achieve.

Vivian’s odyssey is a high adventure that will bring mankind new knowledge and unimagined insights … just as the risk of worldwide nuclear war has never been greater. Now, on her triumphant return in 1985, Vivian Carter’s path inevitably brings her back to where she began: a desperate rescue mission with no NASA support and no safety net, to a dangerous, war-torn Moon where she will be hard pressed to tell friend from foe.

In the concluding volume of Alan Smale’s highly acclaimed Apollo Rising series ("A nail-biting thriller."−Publishers Weekly) humanity faces a stark choice: a bright new interplanetary future … or nuclear apocalypse on two worlds.

Mission Impossible meets X-Men—with a twist: You only have 60 seconds to save the day. 

Currently being considered for a major Hollywood production.

U.S. Marine Daniel Hayes returns from the Middle East in a wheelchair. The only survivor of his team, he’s haunted by more than his physical scars. His survivor’s guilt keeps him trapped on the porch of his childhood home, watching the rust belt crumble around him.

In Africa, Dr. Christian Chase’s once-fearless hands are now useless. Blinded in a rebel ambush, she replays the life she couldn’t save as if torturing herself with endless flashbacks could change the past.

In Ukraine, kickboxer Zoya Zynchenko wakes in a cold hospital bed. Her family gone, her legs paralyzed, a missile strike leaving her a forgotten victim of war.

And bounty hunter Max “Jaxx” Jaquez hides his crippling pain behind false bravado. Drowning in guilt for letting a dangerous predator escape, he hates himself more than the criminal he failed to apprehend.

Enter Norman Blackwell, a brilliant but reclusive biotech engineer. His cutting-edge treatment transforms these broken heroes into something extraordinary. Hayes gains superhuman strength. Chase’s gaze becomes deadly. Zoya moves with lightning reflexes. Jaxx’s intellect explodes into genius.

But there’s a cost: These powers last for only 60 seconds at a time, then pain and incapacitation hits.

Together, they become the Minute-Men, a team of wounded warriors turned reluctant heroes. Their first mission: Stop a ruthless corporate warlord from weaponizing life-saving nanotechnology, turning hope into tools of control and destruction. To succeed, they must master their fleeting powers, trust each other, and find strength in their shared scars. Because in a world where everything can change in a heartbeat, 60 seconds is all they’ve got to save the day—and each other.

In New Rock New Rules, the thrilling third installment of Richard Sparks' gripping New Rock series, the kingdom finds itself in turmoil after the eccentric demise of King Wyllard. As power shifts unexpectedly into the hands of the radiant and cunning Esmeralda, alliances are tested, schemes unravel, and palace intrigue reaches a fever pitch. Esmeralda's bold maneuvering silences her ambitious rivals and sends a clear message: in this new era, she alone sets the rules—and she isn't afraid to enforce them.

Meanwhile, legendary warrior Commandant Bastard faces his greatest challenge yet—a spectacular duel against Grell, a hero whose strength and ferocity could change the realm forever. As excitement grips Eastbay and fortunes ride on the outcome, secrets emerge, loyalties are tested, and even friendships teeter precariously on the edge. With wit, humor, and an unmatched talent for storytelling, Sparks weaves an irresistible narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.

But far from the cheering crowds and the glitter of royal tournaments, another danger stirs in the shadows of the Deepwoods. Daxx, now wrestling with a terrifying and seductive new power, journeys into the unknown to confront his destiny. Led by unexpected guides and pursued by inner demons, he must make an impossible choice—one that could redefine his very being. New Rock New Rules offers readers adventure, laughter, and heart-stopping suspense, ensuring they'll eagerly turn every page until the very end.

After months abroad honing her forbidden necromancy magic, Rose Thenlif returns for her final year at the elite Dunhollow Academy of Witchcraft with only two goals in mind: reuniting with her girlfriend, Sylvie, and reviving her best friend, Fen. But Dunhollow has a way of digging its claws in deep, and Rose soon discovers that, not only will the academy play host to the prestigious but deadly Ashwood Tournament between its rival universities this year, but she and Sylvie have been selected to compete.

Forced to hide her dangerous necromancy, and with only a tenuous grasp on fire sorcery to protect her, Rose has little hope of winning. Especially after her revival spell backfires, and she finds herself haunted by brutal thoughts, and losing time altogether. Yet the most dangerous threat she faces might be Callum, a rival competitor and compulsion mage with a sharp tongue and an unerring habit of showing up where Rose least wants him.

But, when the first trial of the tournament ends with Rose standing over her mother's scorched corpse with no memory of how she got there, she and Sylvie must once again team up to uncover whether it was Rose herself, someone out to frame her, or something altogether darker. Stuck between ruthless competitors, lethal trials, and the dangerous twists of Rose's own mind, the pair must rely on the unlikely aid of Callum to recover Rose's lost memories. Though his help doesn't come without strings attached, and the truth could very well be the weapon with which he betrays them. With their brittle alliance caught upon the edge of a knife, the trio must delve even further into Dunhollow's secrets and their own dark pasts, though they soon find that their hearts may prove the most treacherous opponents of all.

An artist’s brain rules a team of a million microbial minds—from the Campbell Award winning author of A Door into Ocean.

In the hundred-level city of Iridis, human lords recycle diamonds and emeralds down to the Underworld while sentient machines pilot lightcraft and perform surgeries. Microbial minds expand the brains of scientists and artists. The artist Chrys directs her microbes to paint startling installations, design smart buildings and fix quantum networks. A world-size virtual intelligence called Transit commissions Chrys to create a whole new city on another planet.

But unexpected flaws fracture her designs. Microbial criminal gangs invade Chrys’s brain to kill off her own micros and take control. In Iridis, the roots of buildings grow cancers that escape the Underworld and cause earthquakes. Outlawed machines shake down shops and kidnap human lords for ransom. The city’s rulers ignore the signs of collapse, then face a new threat that no mind foresaw.

Everyone Deserves a Happily Ever After...

Coming home to Ivy Falls was the best decision Piper Townsend ever made. People have welcomed her back with open arms even after a major mistake almost cost her brother, Beck everything. Piper still has a lot to prove, though. That’s why she’s juggling two jobs, all while directing the children’s musical at the local theater. She can’t screw up again if she’s too busy, right?

When Crawford “Ford” Foster agrees to fill in for a vacationing Ivy Falls doctor, it’s only to kill time until he can get back to the life he loves in Africa. But the job, and the people, are not what he expects, and he’s instantly drawn into the quirky little town. He knows he can’t get distracted from what he wants, but when he has a “sticky” encounter with Piper at the local bookstore, he starts to rethink all his plans.

Piper has no interest in Ford. The last thing she needs is a hot-as-hell doctor with a wicked smirk setting her off track. Ford tries to keep his distance from the beautiful brunette from the bookstore, until Piper moves into the apartment next door. Through the thin walls he hears her terrible renditions of 90’s pops songs in the shower, and she can’t ignore the sexy way he moans her name in his sleep. There’s no way for them to be together. So why do they keep making excuses to see each other when Ford will be gone from Ivy Falls by the end of the summer anyway?

"Dawn’s experience as a music writer comes through in her vibrant, authentic portrayal of the band’s sound and interpersonal dynamic. This fresh spin on favorite urban fantasy tropes will delight fans of Charles de Lint. "—Publishers Weekly

Childhood friends Patrick, Ciaran, and Malachi would've been happy to play music for coins on the streets of Dublin, but when their sound – a blend of traditional tunes and rock styling – lands them a record deal, they also get their first tour of America. As they gather fans, however, they also get the attention of three sídhe, fairies straight out of Irish tradition who play by their own rules.

Mal finds himself beleaguered by a prankster whose malicious tricks make him think he's losing his mind, while Ciaran falls hard for a hanger-on whose primal sexuality saps the life from him. Patrick can save them – if he's willing to trust the superstitions he learned during a painful childhood he thought he'd left behind long ago.

But the only thing that matters more than music to Patrick? His friends.

The Only Song Worth Singing is an upmarket mythic novel about blood, craic, and rock and roll. Set in the 90s at the height of the Celtic rock boom, it should appeal to fans of Alex Bledsoe and Alice Hoffman alike.

So Lexi never tells him about her friend Gil, who turns up sometimes in a birch copse that travels with him, and who is definitely not human. She especially doesn't mention the magic he taught her, which can open a path to wherever she needs to go. After all, she's been in the woods for most of her life: she can find her way without magic.

But when pop star TJ Furey hires them to help him hunt down a bear, Lexi's secret is threatened. The bear he wants to kill is under Gil's protection, and if Lexi doesn't prevent its death, she'll never see Gil again. But she can't do so without risking her father's wrath – and when it turns out that TJ's manager is harboring a similar grudge of his own, Lexi feels trapped. If she wants her own life, she'll have to find a way to break all their expectations.

Leave No Trace plays the clash of worlds – magic and technology, future and past, rural and urban – against the backdrop of a bear hunt.

Award-winning author Jim C. Hines delivers a deeply personal epic in Kitemaster. In this labor of love written over twenty years, Hines whisks readers away to a world where relentless winds shape destiny.

Nial Sarnin is twenty-one years old, far too young to have lost her beloved husband Jika. One year after Jika's death, Nial is preparing to fly a kite sewn from the shirt Jika wore at their wedding, to carry his spirit to the stars and beyond.

Instead, Nial finds herself launched on an adventure that will change the fate of her world. The spirit kite doesn't flow at the mercy of the winds, but responds to Nial's control, marking her as a Kitemaster—a rare and valuable gift on a magical world where the winds forever blow.

Her powers bring her to the attention of Captain Wolf of the kiteship Midnight Rain. Wolf has joined forces with the runaway Prince Vikaan to attempt to thwart Queen Kavaya's plan to conquer the skies and start a war against neighboring kingdoms.

Nial could be the key to stopping Queen Kavaya and saving countless lives—including the lives of her own family—but only if she can learn to truly understand her gift before the Queen and her agents rain death across the kingdoms.

Every gust of wind in this inspiring tale promises hope and a chance to reshape a world on the brink in this spellbinding adventure of loss, resilience, and transformation.

“Rip-roaring action sequences and the mystery of Madrenga’s curious powers propel the story through a series of consistently surprising twists and turns.” —Publishers Weekly

“Foster's brisk and eventful novel should please any reader looking for a quick and diverting adventure." —Booklist

“Alan Dean Foster is the modern-day Renaissance writer, as his abilities seem to have no genre boundaries.” —Bookbrowser

“One of the most consistently inventive and fertile writers of science-fiction and fantasy.” —The Times (London)

He is plainly too young and too inexperienced for the mission, but on the advice of her aged adviser Natoum, and with her husband off at war, the Queen reluctantly assigns the task of delivery to…

Madrenga.

Accompanied only by a runt of a pony and a scrap of a pup, he sets off to transport the royal message to its destination. No matter what it might take.

But things are not always what they seem. Heroes are sometimes made of the strangest stuff, and love is to be found in the most unexpected places.

If one doesn’t die while treading the lethal path…

From the New York Times bestselling author of Ink, the Rot and Ruin series, and the creator of V-Wars.

The undead walk. Vicious, relentless, and never tiring.

Hungry.

And the dead have their stories.

Bram Stoker Award-winner Jonathan Maberry is a master of the zombie tale. Empty Graves: Tales of the Living Dead is emotionally charged and disturbing. These stories range across the genres of horror, science fiction, and biological thriller without ever straying from the fascinating humanity at the core.

Together in a single action-packed collection, these 15 gritty tales of the living dead span Maberry's career, including an exclusive never-before-published short story.

Tessa is struggling to run her mother's beloved bookstore and the business is failing. At least she has her friend, and accidental heartthrob, Manny to support her. As single parents they understand each other, and their friendship is too important for Tessa to give in to the chemistry brewing between them.

With the sudden success of his home renovation show, Manny is shocked to discover just how much the internet knows about him. While he navigates his new and strange life, his feelings only grow for Tessa as he helps build a new coffee bar for the bookstore.

But when Tessa's soon-to-be ex-husband returns to Ivy Falls, she must make a choice: should she follow her heart, or does she owe it to her girls to fix their family?

Embark on a swift adventure with Speedy Spots, a captivating coloring book tailored for children aged 6 to 8, where the star of the show is the magnificent cheetah. Each page in this book is a tribute to the world's fastest land animal, featuring beautifully illustrated scenes of cheetahs in their natural habitats. From savannah races to quiet moments under the African sun, these illustrations provide a glimpse into the exciting and vibrant world of cheetahs, ready to be enlivened with colors.

But Speedy Spots is more than just a coloring book. Accompanying every picture is a series of age-appropriate questions which utilize the frameworks of both Dolch and Fry sight words (additional age-appropriate words may also be used).

This further engages the young artists with playful questions related to the coloring picture. Questions like, "What color do you think the bear's hat should be?" or "How many spots can you add to the upside-down bird?" not only inspire creativity in coloring but also promote critical thinking, observation, and writing skills.

Speedy Spots: The Cheetah Coloring & Quiz Book is an ideal pick for any child fascinated by wildlife and the wonders of nature. It skillfully combines the excitement of coloring with storytelling and interactive learning, making it a great educational and entertaining choice. This book promises to be a cherished addition to any young explorer's collection, providing hours of creative, informative, and enjoyable activities.

Step back in time with Dino-Mite Designs, a thrilling coloring book designed for children aged 6 to 8, where dinosaurs, the giants of the prehistoric world, come to life. Each page is filled with dynamic and detailed illustrations of various dinosaurs in their ancient habitats. From the mighty Tyrannosaurus Rex to the gentle Brontosaurus, these pages allow young explorers to immerse themselves in the fascinating world of dinosaurs, adding their own splash of color to these long-extinct creatures.

But Dino-Mite Designs is more than just a coloring book. Accompanying every picture is a series of age-appropriate questions which utilize the frameworks of both Dolch and Fry sight words (additional age-appropriate words may also be used).

This further engages the young artists with playful questions related to the coloring picture. Questions like, "What color do you think the bear's hat should be?" or "How many spots can you add to the upside-down bird?" not only inspire creativity in coloring but also promote critical thinking, observation, and writing skills.

Dino-Mite Designs: The Dinosaur Coloring & Quiz Book is an ideal pick for any child fascinated by the mysterious and thrilling world of dinosaurs. It skillfully combines the fun of coloring with storytelling and interactive quizzes, making it a great resource for both entertainment and education. This book is sure to become a treasured addition to any young paleontologist’s collection, providing hours of colorful, educational, and adventurous fun.

Step into the adorable world of teddy bears with Teddy Hugs, a heartwarming coloring book created especially for children aged 6 to 8. This book is a celebration of one of the most beloved childhood companions: the teddy bear. Each page features cute and cuddly teddy bear illustrations in a variety of delightful settings, waiting to be brought to life with color. From picnic adventures to star-gazing nights, these charming scenes capture the innocent joy and comfort that teddy bears bring to children's lives.

But Teddy Hugs is more than just a coloring book. Accompanying every picture is a series of age-appropriate questions which utilize the frameworks of both Dolch and Fry sight words (additional age-appropriate words may also be used).

This further engages the young artists with playful questions related to the coloring picture. Questions like, "What color do you think the bear's hat should be?" or "How many spots can you add to the upside-down bird?" not only inspire creativity in coloring but also promote critical thinking, observation, and writing skills.

Teddy Hugs: The Teddy Coloring & Quiz Book is the perfect book for any child who cherishes the timeless appeal of teddy bears. It combines the joy of coloring with the fun of storytelling and interactive quizzes, making it an ideal tool for both playtime and learning. This book promises to be a beloved addition to any young child's collection, offering hours of engaging, creative, and educational enjoyment.

Plunge into the enchanting underwater world with Dolphin Doodles, a captivating coloring book designed for children aged 6 to 8. Each page showcases the playful and intelligent dolphin, one of the ocean's most beloved creatures. The illustrations depict dolphins in various joyful and dynamic scenes - leaping above the waves, playing in the coral reefs, and swimming in pods. These lively images are waiting for young artists to fill them with color, bringing the vibrant world of dolphins to life.

But Dolphin Doodles is more than just a coloring book. Accompanying every picture is a series of age-appropriate questions which utilize the frameworks of both Dolch and Fry sight words (additional age-appropriate words may also be used).

This further engages the young artists with playful questions related to the coloring picture. Questions like, "What color do you think the bear's hat should be?" or "How many spots can you add to the upside-down bird?" not only inspire creativity in coloring but also promote critical thinking, observation, and writing skills.

Dolphin Doodles: The Dolphin Coloring & Quiz Book is an ideal pick for any child fascinated by aquatic wildlife and the wonders of nature. It skillfully combines the excitement of coloring with storytelling and interactive learning, making it a great educational and entertaining choice. This book promises to be a cherished addition to any young explorer's collection, providing hours of creative, informative, and enjoyable activities.

Discover the extraordinary and the whimsical with The Big Book of Absurdly Whimsical Images, a unique coloring book crafted for teens and adults. This book is a treasure trove of the wonderfully bizarre and delightfully absurd, featuring intricate and complex images that defy reality. Imagine knights chatting on cell phones, chickens exploring underwater realms, and other fantastical scenarios that blend the everyday with the fantastical. Each page invites you into a world where creativity knows no bounds, offering an escape into a realm of endless possibilities.

Designed with the adult colorist in mind, this book offers not just a coloring experience but a journey into a world of whimsical absurdity. The complexity and detail of each illustration provide a challenging and engaging coloring adventure, perfect for those who wish to lose themselves in the art of creativity. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or a casual hobbyist, these images offer a refreshing departure from the mundane, igniting your imagination and providing hours of entertainment.

Beyond the joy of coloring, The Thick Book of Absurdly Whimsical Images serves as a fantastic tool for stress relief and relaxation. The act of coloring has been shown to have therapeutic benefits, helping to calm the mind and alleviate anxiety. As you fill these absurd and whimsical scenes with color, you’ll find yourself drifting into a state of peaceful mindfulness, where daily stresses fade away, and the focus is solely on the moment and the movement of your coloring tools.

The Thick Book of Absurdly Whimsical Images: A Coloring Book for Teens & Adults is an ideal choice for anyone looking to add a touch of whimsy and relaxation to their life. It’s a perfect gift for friends, family, or even yourself. This coloring book promises to provide not just a creative outlet but also a delightful respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, making it a must-have for those who love to color and dream.

Dive into the heart of artistic genius in this illuminating exploration of Western paintings spanning five centuries. From the vivid religious depictions of the Renaissance to the bold brushstrokes of the 19th century, this book presents a curated collection of the most iconic paintings that have shaped art history. Each page unfolds with a high-quality reproduction of the original masterpiece, inviting readers to a visual feast that has stood the test of time.

In this comprehensive volume, art enthusiasts will find not only the pictures of the artworks themselves but also insightful historical and analytical commentary. Each painting is accompanied by descriptions that contextualize its significance in art history, a perfect introduction for art lovers, particularly those new to it.

Alongside these masterpieces, readers will find short biographies of the artists which provide further context for these masterpieces. These narratives provide a unique window into the minds and times of the creators, enriching the appreciation of their work.

Engage in a deeper analysis of literature with the Student’s Literary Toolkit. This comprehensive resource focuses on three iconic short stories (fully annotated): The Most Dangerous Game by Richard Connell, The Story of an Hour by Kate Chopin, and The Garden Party by Katherine Mansfield, serving as a bridge connecting students with the intricate worlds of these narratives, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of literary art.

Through a series of thought-provoking discussion questions, vocabulary activities, and semantic mapping exercises, this book provides a structured approach to literary analysis, equipping students with essential tools they can apply to any text.

Section One guides students through each story with discussion activities, vocabulary exercises, and analytical tools like semantic mapping to unlock deeper meaning. They’ll delve into character motivations, thematic exploration, and hone their writing skills with targeted assignments.

Section Two offers invaluable “Text Insights” to enrich student understanding. Historical and thematic context sections provide background knowledge, while character insights illuminate the characters’ complexities. A sample essay for each story showcases effective analysis, offering students a valuable model for their own writing.

This academician-friendly resource empowers educators to foster a love for literature and equip students with the critical thinking skills necessary for success in English Language Arts and beyond.

This is the traditional text book version.

Be wary of dark magic and the evil it carries. For when the hand of death enters Dunhollow Academy, no one is safe.

Rose is a student at the prestigious and cutthroat institution of magical learning, Dunhollow Academy. The only problem is that she can't cast a single spell––something her chancellor mother and pretentious peers won't let her forget. Worst among them is Sylvie, the school's top caster, and Rose's academic rival.

At the start of her third year, Rose must deal with not only the Academy's expectations of her but also the presence of a vicious ghost, Aveline, a first-year student whose sudden and mysterious disappearance was covered up last term.

Rose is the only person who can see Aveline's ghost, a secret she keeps from everyone, even her best friend, Fen. When Sylvie's ghost appears, Rose realizes that death is following the students at Dunhollow.

Rose and Sylvie are forced to team up in a web of old, dark magic and a dangerous secret Order. The deeper they search for answers, the darker the lies become. The clock is ticking, and Rose and Sylvie must act fast before another student is claimed.

A thrilling new tale for fans of Harry Potter and The Magicians—but with a darker, more haunting twist.

The Highly Anticipated Sequel to New Rock New Role

Shortly after surviving—against overwhelming odds—their epic quest in New Rock New Role, battlemage Daxx and his crew (dual-wielding sword-dancer Qrysta, heavily-armed Orc Grell and sneakthief Oller, with his mutt companion Little Guy) are off on their next adventure. A mysterious ghost ship arrives, carrying a cryptic message for them. Setting sail full of good intentions, they are soon embroiled in the eternal struggle between the forces of good and the forces of evil. If they are to find a way out of an impossible situation, each must complete a separate mission in a realm where nowhere is safe for them.

New Rock New Realm is a captivating tale that will enthrall lovers of epic fantasy. Told with his customary wit, Richard Sparks' skillful storytelling weaves a tapestry of adventure, mystery, suspense and emotional depth—with plenty of comic moments spicing up events as they progress.

Memorable characters, imaginative settings and challenging quests all combine to make the New Rock series an unforgettable addition to the genre.

NOMINATED FOR THE NEBULA AWARD

"Mind-expanding" —Kirkus, starred review

"Dreamy and precise, huge in scope and very personal, this is a towering achievement and a genre-busting tour de force."—Daily Mail

Refusing the queen’s order to gas a crowd of protesters, Minister Shea Ashcroft is banished to the border to oversee the construction of the biggest defensive tower in history. However, the use of advanced technology taken from refugees makes the tower volatile and dangerous, becoming a threat to local interests. Shea has no choice but to fight the local hierarchy to ensure the construction succeeds—and to reclaim his own life.

Surviving an assassination attempt, Shea confronts his inner demons, encounters an ancient legend, and discovers a portal to a dead world—all while struggling to stay true to his own principles and maintain his sanity. Fighting memories and hallucinations, he starts to question everything...

Sleeping Worlds Have No Memory is a thought-provoking meditation on the fragility of the human condition, our beliefs, the manipulation of propaganda for political gains, and our ability to distinguish the real from the unreal and our willingness to accept convenient “truths.”  The novel is a compelling exploration of memory, its fragile nature, and its profound impact on our perception of identity, relationships, and facts themselves.

"Eloquent, moody, poetic. . . masterful."—Beth Cato (author of A Thousand Recipes for Revenge)

A note from the author: “A major theme of the book is how disinformation and propaganda can be used to justify violence, and how ignoring evil can lead people to accept atrocities. I was able to witness all this first-hand, having spent the first 21 years of my life in Russia and absorbing the recent events unfiltered and in my native tongue. Sleeping worlds are not only devoid of memories; they are also oblivious to the pain of others.”

A unique blend of science fiction, fantasy and noir, with zeitgeist and prophetic qualities (the original novella anticipated the Russo-Ukrainian War), this is a must for fans of China Miéville’s Bas-Lag series, Ted Chiang’s Tower of Babylon, and Robert Silverberg’s Tower of Glass.

"An imaginative, heady clash of fantasy and science-fiction that delivers powerful messages"—FantasyBookCritic

"Triumphs in its emotional and unsettling storytelling" —The Fantasy Hive

Maddy's character is a blend of strength and vulnerability, making her a compelling protagonist. Her journey is not just about the physical travel through space, but also an exploration of her own morals and choices. This adds depth to the narrative, offering readers more than just an action-packed adventure.

The novel deftly balances high-stakes action with thought-provoking themes. As Maddy maneuvers through perilous situations, she is confronted with questions of right and wrong in a morally grey universe. This element of ethical dilemma enriches the plot, making it a gripping read.

Lost Origins is a must-read for fans of space opera and character-driven stories. The novel's rich world-building, combined with Maddy's compelling character arc, makes it an unforgettable journey across the stars, filled with suspense, action, and deep human insights.

Following my Nose is Hugo and Nebula author and critic Alexei Panshin’s very personal journey into literary analysis and his own reflections.

Panshin discusses his own journey as well as works that influenced his own writing and on science fiction in general. Authors like A.E. van Vogt, Charles Dodgson (Lewis Caroll) and others have shaped both the genre as well as Panshin’s own art.

This work also discusses a broader critique of the genre and its impact on literature and culture, drawing heavily from his outstanding, Hugo-winning book, The World Beyond the Hill.

Beautifully written as only Alexei Panshin can, the book perfectly melds his own personal journey, a unique perspective on science fiction and the power of the genre to influence our culture.

This is the third volume in this highly praised series (the first won the World Fantasy Award). Previous works have been praised for their eclectic mix of stories, offering a panorama of themes and styles. For instance, the 2021 edition included a story about a woman struggling with her identity and relationship in the face of a thought-recording device, a tale of a man fostering a rapidly evolving robot, and an adventurous narrative about a sentient robot dog engaging in space piracy. These stories not only explored advanced technologies and speculative scenarios but also delved deep into human emotions, relationships, and societal issues.

Themes of personal struggles, such as dealing with depression, anxiety, and feelings of alienation, were also prominent. These were manifested through unique and powerful metaphors, like a woman whose detachable body parts symbolized her sense of disintegration and invisibility, or a story that portrayed the torment of self-contempt through the constant barrage of negative thoughts from imaginary entities.

The anthology also ventured into mythic dimensions, echoing the voices and histories of entire cultures through concise yet profound storytelling. For example, flash fiction pieces in the collection reached the heights of epic poetry, encapsulating the journey of human life and cultural evolution.

With such a backdrop, the 2023 volume continues this tradition of blending speculative elements with profound human experiences and cultural narratives. It's likely to feature stories that push the boundaries of imagination while staying grounded in the complexities of the human condition. Readers can anticipate a collection that entertains, provokes thought, and offers new perspectives on the future and the present. The anthology is not just a showcase of speculative fiction; it's a celebration of African storytelling, creativity, and the endless possibilities within the realm of speculative fiction.

Permutations: A Well World Anthology iis a triumphant return to Jack L. Chalker’s groundbreaking universe; a series that captivated readers with its imaginative scope and  profound themes. The original novel, Midnight at the Well of Souls, has sold over five million copies worldwide, solidifying its place as a cornerstone of science fiction literature. Set on the Well World—a planet-sized supercomputer created by the ancient Markovians to engineer new species—the series explores transformation, identity, and the complexities of existence through the journey of starship captain Nathan Brazil.

This anthology, officially authorized by Chalker’s estate, combines a stellar lineup of contemporary science fiction authors, including Neal Asher, Catherine Asaro, and S.P. Somtow. Each contributor offers a unique perspective, expanding upon the rich tapestry of the Well World and introducing fresh narratives that honor the spirit of the original works. These stories delve into the diverse habitats and species of the Well World, exploring new adventures and philosophical quandaries that will resonate with today’s readers.

For long-time fans and newcomers alike, Permutations serves as both an homage and a gateway into the expansive universe Chalker masterfully created. It’s more than a collection of stories, it’s an invitation to re-experience the wonder and complexity of a world that has inspired countless imaginations. Whether revisiting the Well World or exploring it for the first time, this anthology promises to ignite the awe and curiosity that defines great science fiction.

In the Court of the Crimson Kings plunges readers into an alternate universe where early space probes revealed Mars to be brimming with life. Now human explorers walk the red sands, navigating a world filled with ancient mysteries and alien intrigue.

Jeremy Wainman, an Earth archaeologist, arrives on Mars to uncover the secrets of a long-lost city buried beneath the sands. His guide is Teyud za-Zhalt, a fierce and enigmatic Martian warrior with secrets of her own. As they journey deep into the planet’s uncharted wilderness, they encounter relics of an astonishingly advanced civilization, one that hints at forces beyond human comprehension.

But Mars is not merely a world of ruins; it is alive with political strife, ancient feuds, and deadly intrigue. The rigid and honor-bound Martian society teeters on the brink of upheaval, and as Jeremy and Teyud draw closer to their goal, they find themselves caught in a battle for the throne of the Crimson Kings—rulers who have shaped the destiny of Mars for millennia.

With powerful enemies on their trail and the fate of two worlds at stake, Jeremy and Teyud must unravel Mars’s greatest secret before it’s too late. But as they unlock the past, they may also hold the key to humanity’s future.

Perfect for fans of classic pulp adventure and science fiction epics, In the Court of the Crimson Kings is a thrilling tale of discovery, danger, and a Mars that never was but should have been. It is the perfect follow up to the first book in The Lords of the Creation series, The Sky People.

“Rollicking first of an alternate history series.... Readers will eagerly anticipate a trip to Mars in the sequel.”—Publishers Weekly (Starred Review)

Early probes to Venus and Mars found both to be teeming with life in this alternate universe.

Marc is stationed at Jamestown, a US-Commonwealth base on this alternate Venus rife with life, including sabertooths and dinosaurs. This base is not just a scientific outpost; it’s a frontier of American and allied adventurers and scientists navigating a world as perilous as it is mysterious.

Cynthia is a newly arrived scientist from Earth tasked with studying some strange geological formations. She teams up with Marc, and during their investigation, they stumble across trouble brewing in the alien wilderness. The scientists are baffled by Venus’s Earth-like life forms, which stir scientific and political tensions. The EastBloc’s nearby base, Cosmograd, adds to the chilly diplomatic climate.

In a parallel struggle, Teesa of the Cloud Mountain People native to Venus is locked in a fierce battle with Neanderthal-like beastmen over sacred caves. An EastBloc shuttle crash escalates the conflict, arming the beastmen with modern weaponry.

Jamestown’s mission to rescue the EastBloc cosmonauts spirals into a journey of discovery. The protagonists face tribal warfare and unearth secrets that could redefine their understanding of science and history. Amidst all this, a hidden enemy lurks on their own airship.

Events come to a head when Marc and Cynthia uncover evidence that may hold the key not only to the mystery of Venusian life, but of life on Earth, too.

“Stirling offers an easygoing, atmospheric tale airbrushed with fuzzy political overtones, along with a good bit of humor and lively characterization.”—Kirkus Reviews

Lady Catherine “Cat” Carletto would never have left her pampered life behind in a different world. But when Princess Ophelia became Empress Ophelia in a coup that claimed the lives of the princess’s brother and all who supported him, including the Carletto family, Cat had to hide - or die.

She became Legionnaire Andromeda McKee, and now she’s a battle-scarred veteran who knows how to kill. Summoned to Earth to receive the Imperial Order of Merit from the empress, Andromeda learns that she isn’t the sole surviving Carletto—her uncle Rex is still alive and the leader of a resistance group determined to overthrow Ophelia.

Caught up in a web of intrigue, Andromeda realizes that the moment is coming when her revenge will be at hand. But will she be able to act, or will she be betrayed by those she has come to trust?

***

The Legion of the Damned: one of the most popular military SF series ever published.

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“Dietz expertly jumps from one theater of combat to another.”—Publishers Weekly

“When it comes to military science fiction, William Dietz can run with the best.”—Steve Perry, author of The Ramal Extraction

“A superb, action-packed thriller...[a] terrific tale.”—Midwest Book Review

“A tough, moving novel of future warfare.”—David Drake, author of the Hammer’s Slammers series

“Dietz’s expertise in matters of mayhem is second to none.”—The Oregonian

“Andromeda’s Fall is one of the most interesting futuristic novels.”—SF Site

After failing at her one shot at vengeance, Andromeda had questioned her resolve. But now her uncle has been killed in a government raid back on Earth, leaving her as the last Carletto standing—and the family’s only chance for justice... An opportunity comes when the empress’ ship crashes on a hostile planet, and Andromeda is assigned to head up the rescue mission.

As a legionnaire, Andromeda McKee has countless kills under her belt. But when faced with her greatest enemy, Cat Carletto has to pull the trigger on the one who really matters...

***

The Legion of the Damned: one of the most popular military SF series ever published.

ACCLAIM FOR THE SERIES

“Dietz expertly jumps from one theater of combat to another.”—Publishers Weekly

“When it comes to military science fiction, William Dietz can run with the best.”—Steve Perry, author of The Ramal Extraction

“A superb, action-packed thriller...[a] terrific tale.”—Midwest Book Review

“A tough, moving novel of future warfare.”—David Drake, author of the Hammer’s Slammers series

“Dietz’s expertise in matters of mayhem is second to none.”—The Oregonian

“Andromeda’s Fall is one of the most interesting futuristic novels.”—SF Site

Hundreds of years in the future, much will change. Advances in medicine, technology, and science abound. Humanity has gone to the stars, found alien life, and established an empire. But some things never change...

All her life, Lady Catherine Carletto (called Cat) has lived for nothing but the next party, the next lover, and the next expensive toy. Until, in a bloodthirsty power grab, Imperial Princess Ophelia and her cadre of synth assassins murder her brother, the emperor, and go on to purge the galaxy of his friends and supporters—including Cat’s family.

The Carlettos are known to be staunch supporters of the emperor, and Carletto Industries has been at the forefront of his pet project—developing cybernetic technology for the masses. Now Cat, one of the last surviving Carlettos, is on the run. And, like countless others before her, she finds her sanctuary among the most dangerous of society’s misfits.

Welcome to the Legion.

Cat Carletto vanishes, and in her place stands Legion recruit Andromeda McKee. A woman with a mission—to bring down Empress Ophelia—or die trying.

***

The Legion of the Damned: one of the most popular military SF series ever published.

ACCLAIM FOR THE SERIES

“Dietz expertly jumps from one theater of combat to another.”—Publishers Weekly

“A superb, action-packed thriller...[a] terrific tale.”—Midwest Book Review

“A tough, moving novel of future warfare.”—David Drake, author of the Hammer’s Slammers series

“Dietz’s expertise in matters of mayhem is second to none.”—The Oregonian

A meticulously curated, fully annotated anthology that serves as an indispensable and convenient resource for students and teachers. 

The combination of annotated texts of these classic stories with additional aids including detailed explanations and incisive critical essays will greatly aid students in their journey through literary analysis. Each story has been thoughtfully chosen to address specific themes and concepts that are vital to literary studies, ensuring that students not only enjoy the narratives but also gain a profound understanding of their significance in the world of literature.

”The Most Dangerous Game" by Richard Connell: This story is a cornerstone in literature education. By diving into themes of morality, empathy, and survival, it offers students the perfect platform to hone their skills in character analysis and situational ethics. The gripping narrative draws students in, challenging them to think critically about human nature and the complexities of morality. Its timeless relevance ensures that it remains a topic of vital discussions in classrooms, enabling students to connect with and reflect on profound ethical questions.

"The Story of an Hour" by Kate Chopin: This tale is a powerful lens through which students can explore the intricate dynamics of women's roles and personal freedoms in the 19th century. As a landmark piece of feminist literature, it serves as an invaluable springboard for discussions on gender, societal norms, and the essence of individual identity. By engaging with this narrative, students are encouraged to think analytically about the societal constructs of their time and the timeless challenges of self-definition.

"The Garden Party" by Katherine Mansfield: Beyond its captivating narrative, this story is a treasure trove of themes that are pivotal for comprehensive literature studies. By delving into topics of class distinction, mortality, and self-realization, it offers students a unique opportunity to dissect social constructs and ponder the intricacies of the human condition. As students navigate this narrative, they are propelled to think deeply about society's layered structures and the profound questions of life and identity.

With this anthology in their hands, students are equipped with the tools they need to embark on a rich and rewarding literary journey, fostering a deep appreciation for the art of storytelling and its profound impact on intellectual growth.

Need any giant monsters slain?

Are your own knights in shining armor unreliable or—worse—cowards?

Young Cullin, wanting to see the world, joins a band of renowned knights errant who will slay your dragon for a price. Satisfaction guaranteed!

The only problem is, it’s all a scam. The “dragon” is no more than rumors and tall tales spread by Cullin and his gang, giant three-toed footprints stomped into the ground near strategically burned-down huts and charred skeletons (procured from the local graveyard). It’s a great con job, so long as Cullin and company can take the money and run, move on to the next kingdom before anyone catches on.

But even con men can be caught in their own game. Clever, spunky Princess Affonyl doesn’t want any part of the arranged marriage to an evil duke from a neighboring kingdom. And she realizes that a fearsome dragon, even an imaginary one, is the perfect cover for her escape.

It’s one caper after another as these medieval dirty, rotten scoundrels try to outsmart one another. And they discover that the dragon business is more than just a game…especially if a real dragon might be involved.

The Princess Bride meets Dirty, Rotten Scoundrels

Join former scamp, Cullin, and his merry band of confidence men (and one liberated princess) as they put The Sting in the Middle Ages. With dreams of being a hero, or at least a storyteller, Cullin travels with Sir Dalbry, a washed-up knight in shining armor; Reeger, ready and eager for any part of the dirty work; and Affonyl, former princess, who wanted to study science and alchemy rather than embroidery.

Together, they cross the land with one scam after another, concocting their own heroic deeds, preparing mock dragon heads, or selling kraken tusks and mermaid scales.

But when attempting to con King Longjohn, whose castle is supposedly bursting at the seams with treasure, the caper turns sour. The powerful Wizard-Mage Ugnarok and his army of ugly and muscular (if not too bright) orcs takes over Longjohn’s castle, imprisoning the king, pillaging the halls, and carrying on with typical orc-like mayhem.

Cullin and his friends are trapped in the castle’s labyrinth of secret passages, just trying to survive … or is this the opportunity for a grander scam than they have ever attempted before?

Orcs are terribly superstitious—you can’t bash a ghost, after all—and it’s like Die Hard in a castle, as Cullin, Affonyl, Reeger, and Dalbry set up a grand haunting that will scare off even the scariest orc army.

Twin brothers Tom and Pat are recruited for a special mission to discover other habitable planets. Though only one of them can go into orbit, there’s an even bigger catch: while one twin ages on Earth over the years, his brother will remain a young man upon his return from the galaxy.

Discover the wonders and secrets of a very special Mars alongside Jim and Frank in this thrilling adventure, featuring the first appearance of the Martian elder race by one of the greatest science fiction writers of all.

With over-population stretching the resources of Earth, the need to find and colonize other Terra-type planets is becoming crucial to the survival of the human race. But finding these planets is time-consuming and very costly. With a seemingly inexhaustible budget, the scientists at the Long Range Foundation create the remarkable Torchships, which are able to traverse to different Star Systems within the matter of months. However, communication between Earth and these ships would still take countless years—even decades. How would they alert Earth of the planets they find?

Tom and Pat are recruited by LRF to become the human transmitters and receivers for the mission. Growing up together they had felt like they were so similar, so in sync, that it was almost as if they read each other’s minds…. Only to discover, that was indeed what they could do. Along with other telepathic pairings, their abilities are tested, and it is discovered that time nor distance impedes their connection; communication between Earth and the Torchships would be instantaneous.

But there is a catch: during the course of the mission, while one of them stays behind and grows old, on Earth, the other will be traversing the stars, and—if he survives—will return a young man.

“Rarely has Heinlein pushed his imagination further…a vivid, stirring experience.”—Chicago Tribune

“One of the superb Heinlein stories that has excitement, urbanity, humanity, rationality, pace, understanding, and is a joy to read.”—The New York Times

“The word that comes to mind for him is essential. As a writer—eloquent, impassioned, technically innovative—he reshaped science fiction in the way that defined it for every writer who followed him…. He was the most significant science fiction writer since H. G. Wells.”—Robert Silverberg, Hugo and Nebula Award-winning author

Finalist for the Prometheus Award.

"Pursuing humanity’s redemption to its final interstellar frontier, Flynn delivers an impressive and original epic.”—Publishers Weekly, starred review

A masterful exploration of humanity’s relentless quest for freedom, In the Belly of the Whale pushes the boundaries of the genre, offering a deeply insightful examination of societal evolution and personal resilience. Each character is so set in their convictions it will make you continuously reevaluate what is right and wrong as you dive into the depths of the human spirit and space.

“In the Belly of the Whale is, if you’ll pardon a Flynn-like pun, a whale of a tale, a grand reading adventure from first page to last. If there has to be such a sad thing as the last novel of a great storyteller, this book is a fine note on which to depart.”—National Space Society

Vivan Carter, the electrifying hero from Hot Moon, returns to lead a lunar geological survey team comprised of both Americans and Soviets. Their journey takes them across the harsh and barren lunar surface as they chart the moon and collect samples for this grueling mission. It is dangerous enough, but the stakes become much higher when an ambush threatens the entire mission.

The crew must navigate a treacherous path where survival requires ingenuity, courage, and an uneasy alliance with their Soviet counterparts. As the stakes grow higher, the mission becomes a test of skill, endurance, and trust in an era defined by suspicion and rivalry.

Dive into an electrifying alternate history where space rivalry takes center stage. Radiant Sky is a thrilling continuation of the highly acclaimed hard science fiction novel that will captivate fans of NASA fiction books, near-future adventures, and hard science fiction series. Set in a meticulously crafted world where the Cold War extends far beyond Earth's atmosphere, humanity's reach into space creates a new frontier of tension and exploration.

With breathtaking accuracy from a retired NASA director and an immersive look at the untold stories of space rivalry, Radiant Sky brings hard science fiction alive, capturing the imagination and the thrill of space exploration. Prepare for a pulse-pounding experience that redefines what it means to venture into the unknown.

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“Smale’s latest will delight and enthrall.”—Library Journal  *starred review*

“A nail-biting thriller set in a plausible alternate 1979.”—Publishers Weekly

“Hot Moon is a provocative science fiction novel set in an alternative but plausible reality. It follows a war in space with original, imaginative flourishes.”—Foreword

“I loved it. Great ‘hard’ science fiction with convincing space battles.”—Larry Niven

“Alan Smale is one of the brightest stars in the hard-SF firmament, and Hot Moon is his best novel yet. ”—Robert J. Sawyer, Hugo and Nebula Award-winning author

“Intriguing, adrenaline-fueled, and engaging, author Alan Smale’s Hot Moon is the perfect sci-fi meets political thriller.”—Anthony Avina’s Blog

“A frightening glimpse into what the future may hold. This unforgettable journey takes readers to the very edge of reality, and possibly, our future.”—Mostly Mysteries’ and Other Books Too

African literary scholars struggle to reconcile African mysticism with literary labels. Between Dystopias: The Road to Afropantheology encapsulates the essence of African mysticism and dystopia through original stories.

Afropantheology explores various aspects of African mysticism and dystopia. ‘Mother's Love, Father's Place’ and ‘02 Arena’ are examples. It acknowledges Africa's journey from its origins to the future.

‘The Deification of Igodo’ and ‘A Dance with the Ancestors’ are stories that showcase the complexity of African mysticism. ‘Land of the Awaiting Birth’ explores the link between the born and the unborn. .

Between Dystopias: The Road to Afropantheology is a celebration of African mysticism. The collection highlights the richness and complexity of African culture and traditions. It is a must-read for anyone interested in African literature, culture, and history. 

What happens when AI takes over the creative process?

Discussion about, and the use of artificial intelligence has exploded across the globe. Some programmers have already speculated that they are witnessing the birth of ‘general’ intelligence in ai which would be a game changer and decades before it was originally anticipated.

Is this the next step, from robots taking over tedious repetitive tasks in factories to now taking over creative ventures as well?

Here are fictional stories that explore the relationship between artificial intelligence and art, written by top science fiction authors from across the globe. Read the tales of robot painters, AI poets, and electronic gallery curators; dystopias where human artists must eke out an existence in societies where AI generates most of the content, and utopias where artificial minds help unlock and enhance human creativity.

This collection features a truly global perspective from top authors from USA, UK, China, Russia, Ukraine, Nigeria, Madagascar, Argentina, Chile, Czech Republic, and Sri Lanka.

"In this impressive collection, a star-studded lineup of 17 authors assembled by Shvartsman (Kakistocracy) raise angst-ridden questions about human-AI collaboration ... This smart, kaleidoscopic view into the digital future will have readers longing to log off." -Publishers Weekly

Discover the wonders and secrets of a very special Mars alongside Jim and Frank in this thrilling adventure, featuring the first appearance of the Martian elder race by one of the greatest science fiction writers of all.

Robert A. Heinlein's Red Planet features the first appearance of the Martian elder race and tells the story of Jim and Frank's journey to the Lowe Academy boarding school on Mars.

On their way to school, the boys meet Gekko, a sentient Martian, and join in a ritual called "growing together," learning about the planet and the Martians' protective nature towards Jim's pet, Willis the Bouncer. 

Jim's impulsive nature lands him in trouble with the authoritarian headmaster, Mr. Howe, who confiscates Willis. The boys rescue the pet, and Willis' eidetic memory reveals a nefarious plan for the colony.

The boys run away from school and encounter unexpected challenges, and their actions have profound ramifications. The restored ending brings the Martian elder race and the boys' discoveries to the forefront, leaving readers questioning everything they thought they knew.

Journeys Beyond the Fantastical Horizon offers a fresh exploration of the magical and the otherworldly. From sentient spaceships to anxiety goblins, this anthology explores the breadth and depth of speculative fiction originally published in Galaxy’s Edge magazine, including Aurora, British Fantasy, BSFA, Hugo, Nebula and Nommo nominated and winning stories. No two pieces are alike, yet all these tales best represent the diversity and range of the genre, challenging readers to question societal norms and reality, igniting the imagination. Let each story transport you to unseen worlds, to places and times that exist beyond the boundaries of the familiar, beyond the fantastical horizon. 

Your journey awaits.

The evolution of crime, punishment, and justice in the future.

What happens when time and technology change the definition of crime and punishment?

Science fiction often focuses on future technology without considering the society housing it. Social norms may change as tech changes — or not. What will criminals, investigators, judges, and juries look like in a complicated future of clones, uploaded intelligences, artificial brains, or body augmentation? What stories emerge when we acknowledge the possibilities of new laws, new police methods, and the birth of sentient Artificial Intelligence, as well as all the ways they can clash or combine?

The Reinvented Detective presents stories that complicate law and order as well as the concept of criminals, detectives, punishment, and justice for all by showing how shifting technology, the rise of sentient AIs, and shifting social attitudes may affect what is not only acceptable, but expected, within both real world and digital communities—and everything in-between. These stories reinvent detective and true crime tropes, recasting them for the 21st century, and above all, experimenting, astonishing, and entertaining.

Conrad Brent has no innate magic, so he bluffs a lot and uses a myriad of magical items to protect Brooklyn from monsters and arcane threats. As a member of the Watch, the group that protects the mundane humans from such dangers, he risks his life on a regular basis. Sometimes twice before lunch. Sometimes during lunch, when he dares order his food from a street cart.

After regaining his position in the Watch which he’d temporarily lost due to the machinations of a variety of evil-doers, Conrad doesn’t want to take any risks he doesn’t have to. But now his boss is missing, there’s a totalitarian new regime in City Hall oppressing all magic users, and the mayor has aligned himself with a diabolical villain.

In order to save the day, Conrad must team up with a recovering necromancer to mediate a dispute between two ancient enemy factions, solve a mystery of a warded house adjacent to a cemetery, and stand with his friends against tyranny.

That is, if the interdimensional fae assassins don’t get him first.

Science fiction often focuses on future technology and science without considering the ways social structures will change as tech changes — or not. The rapid change in technology and how it permeates nearly everything is changing every facet of how we live, including how we interact with others

What will relationships look like in the complicated future of clones, uploaded intelligences, artificial brains, or body augmentation? What stories emerge when we acknowledge possibilities of new genders and ways of thinking about them?

The Reinvented Heart presents stories that complicate sex and gender by showing how shifting technology may affect social attitudes and practices, stories that include relationships with communities and social groups, stories that reinvent traditional romance tropes and recast them for the 21st century, and above all, stories that experiment, astonish, and entertain.

With millions watching on live stream, Daxx and his teammates Qrysta and Grell win the role-playing Games (RPG) Grand Championship. But winning the game was was a piece of cake compared with what comes next.

Daxx wakes up to find he's turned into his own avatar and is in the middle of a wilderness he doesn't recognize. Armed with a crappy sword he has no idea how to use and dressed in beginner-level gear he must figure out how to survive quickly because he can already hear the blood-thirsty howls of wild animals from the jungle that surrounds him.

Thus starts a fantastic epic fantasy adventure. Once the three friends finally find each other they need to puzzle out their new world, gain skills, combat enemies, and make alliances with all kinds of characters and creatures from the different territories of this new world in order to survive.

The heart stopping action is interspersed with humor making it a idiculously fun and addictive read. Ready Player One meets Lord of the Rings in Disc World.

As though landing people safely on Mars weren't daunting enough ...

The Space Race of the Sixties, at the height of the Cold War, had been nail-biting—until the Soviet Union forfeited.

In the thirties—amid a second Cold War—China is not about to lose the race to Mars. Nor is the United States. Nor, quite the wildcard, is a secretive cabal drawn from among the world's multi-billionaires. All of them are scrambling to launch deep-space missions on a schedule that makes the Sixties contest appear lackadaisical.

This competition could only continue on the Red Planet.

More treacherous still? The rivalries, resentments, and distrust that simmer just beneath the surface within each expedition.

More difficult yet? Survival on that arid, radiation-drenched, all-but-airless, planet.

These challenges have somehow fallen into the lap of NASA engineer—and reluctant astronaut—Xander Hopkins.

But the thorniest problem of all? The existential quandary for which neither training nor experience has prepared Xander? Making sense of the seemingly unstoppable plague that has already killed many on Mars, and seems poised to devastate all life on another planet.

Earth.

Widely regarded as a true classic in science fiction, Nostrilia remains extremely popular and influential. Neil Gaiman and Gene Wolfe have both cited the influence of the book on their fiction.

Nostrilia is often cited as an important precursor to the cyberpunk movement of the 1980s, which was characterized by its gritty, urban settings and its focus on the intersection of technology and humanity. Additionally, Smith's unique style has been noted as an influence on a number of other science fiction authors.

The story takes place on an alien planet called Norstrilia, which is home to a unique breed of sheep that produces an incredibly valuable substance known as stroon. Rod McBan, the richest person on Norstrilia wants to circumvent the strict export laws governing the trade of stoon and gets involved in a complicated web of politics and bureaucracy in order to achieve his goal.

His ambition takes him to various places, and subjects him to various adventures and he meets a woman named C'mell, who is a member of an alien race that can shape-shift into human form. C'mell becomes a close ally of Rod's and helps him to navigate the complex politics of the ruling Instrumentality.

Overall, Nostralia is a complex and engaging story that explores many themes, including the nature of power and wealth, the importance of personal relationships, and the dangers of unchecked bureaucracy and politics. Through the character of Rod McBan, Cordwainer Smith offers a nuanced and thought-provoking commentary on the human condition and the potential for both good and evil in all of us, which is as relevant today as it was when he first wrote the book.

Ocean’s 11 meets The Expanse in an adventure set far in the future.

The Kuiper Belt Job is an exciting, action-packed story about a gang called the Cannibal Club. After a heist has gone wrong, they must scatter in a storm of recriminations.

Ten years later, Strange's son, Cayce, shows up at Kane's door to break Strange out of captivity. The story is told through a series of escalating "Jobs," each from a different character's point of view.

The gang breaks into banks, hacks systems, and swindles the rich. But after ten years, no one is who they were... and some are not what they seem.

The story explores themes of power, diversity, political intrigue, and ethics. It includes a thrilling plot, a cast of colorful characters, and a futuristic setting that will captivate fans.

Two-time Sidewise Award-winning author, Alan Smale, brings us an exciting alternate 1979 where the US and the Soviets have permanent Moon bases, orbiting space stations, and crewed spy satellites supported by frequent rocket launches.

Apollo 32, commanded by career astronaut Vivian Carter, docks at NASA's Columbia space station en route to its main mission: exploring the volcanic Marius Hills region of the Moon. Vivian is caught in the crossfire as four Soviet Soyuz craft appear without warning to assault the orbiting station. In an unplanned and desperate move, Vivian spacewalks through hard vacuum back to her Lunar Module and crew and escapes right before the station falls into Soviet hands.

Their original mission scrubbed, Vivian and her crew are redirected to land at Hadley Base, a NASA scientific outpost with a crew of eighteen. But soon Hadley, too, will come under Soviet attack, forcing its unarmed astronauts to daring acts of ingenuity and improvisation.

With multiple viewpoints, shifting from American to Soviet perspective, from occupied space station to American Moon base under siege, to a covert and blistering US Air Force military response, Hot Moon tells the gripping story of a war in space that very nearly might have been.

Amidst political turmoil on Earth, a rescue mission to ailing colonists on Mars becomes a battle for power and survival in the harsh realities of space.

As humanity explores space, political strife rips apart nations and increases social divides. US President Horton Willoughby III governs only Eastern America and is seen as a political farce. Industrialist Richfield Chan sees opportunity in the fractured government and plans to seize power.

Chan rallies allies to send a seventh colony ship to Mars, hoping to undermine the current president. The Ngu family, responsible for terraforming and mining on Pallas, realize that any rescue mission from Earth will arrive too late. Four siblings launch a rescue mission from Pallas to save the ailing colonists with their expertise and better chosen implements.

The Ngu siblings know their mission is one-way and must teach the colonists to survive on the inhospitable planet or find a way to endure until another rescue ship arrives. The “little people” refuse to be subject to incompetent governments any longer and must make their own stand.

The first won the World Fantasy Award for best anthology and was met with widespread critical acclaim from across the world, with the science fiction trade magazine, Locus, calling it a “must read.”

Oghenechovwe Donald Ekpeki, who created the first anthology now joins forces with Eugen Bacon, a 2022 World Fantasy Award finalist and Milton Davis, an award-winning Black Speculative fiction writer and editor to introduce readers to an ever more diverse set of writers associated with Africa.

This anthology is more than just a collection of stories; it is a testament to the power of speculative fiction to transcend boundaries and explore new horizons. It is highly recommended for anyone looking to delve into a world where the speculative meets the vibrantly diverse tapestry of African storytelling.

Timely and relevant to today’s world, the set of stories in this book will astonish, shock and amaze the reader while introducing them to a whole new world.

The Podkayne of Mars follows a teenage girl named Podkayne “Poddy” Fries and her younger brother, Clark, who leave their home on Mars to take a trip on a spaceliner to visit Earth, accompanied by their great-uncle. Podkayne is a bright, adventurous sixteen-year-old whose ambition is to become the first woman deep-space pilot.

The trip suddenly becomes extremely dangerous when they take an unexpected detour to Venus, and she gets involved in a volatile diplomatic and political situation involving her uncle.

The book is a first-person narrative consisting of the diary of Podkayne Fries, a 15-year-old (Earth years) girl living on Mars with her parents and 11-year-old brother Clark1.

The book explores themes such as gender roles, family relationships, and politics and has been noted that Heinlein’s portrayal of Podkayne as a strong-willed and independent young woman was ahead of its time.

Heinlein was extremely unhappy with the change in the ending the publisher insisted upon when it was first published. This edition restores the original ending Heinlein wanted.

"Daniel F. Galouye’s work has often been described as a lost classic and I’m inclined to agree.  His world building skills are top notch… Dark Universe ranks among the best post-apocalyptical books from the late 50s and early 60s. A truly rewarding sci-fi take on Plato’s cave."—Science Fiction and Other Suspect Ruminations

A Hugo Award nominee, Dark Universe, is the classic tale of a post-apocalyptic world where humans have built a society in the dark underground. 

The descendants of the survivors only remember the pre-apocalyptic world in old stories, legends and myths. Light, itself, is remembered as something holy, and Radiation is feared as the ultimate evil. 

Jared is the son of the Prime Survivor, the leader of the Lower Level Clan. In a world of darkness and monsters both real and imagined, Jared embarks on a quest for Light. Little does he know just how dangerous his quest will turn out to be.

A CAEZIK Notable book. CAEZIK Notables is a series of speculative-fiction books marking important milestones in science fiction or fantasy. Each book published in the series has a new introduction highlighting the book’s significance within the genre.

GUARD BROOKLYN, FIGHT MONSTERS, TAUNT BAD GUYS.

What would you do if you lost everything that mattered to you, as well as all means to protect yourself and others, but still had to save the day? Conrad Brent is about to find out.

Conrad Brent protects the people of Brooklyn from monsters and magical threats. The snarky, wisecracking guardian also has a dangerous secret: he’s one in a million – literally.

Magical ability comes to about one in every 30,000 and can manifest at any age. Conrad is rarer than this, however. He’s a middling, one of the half-gifted and totally despised. Most of the gifted community feels that middlings should be instantly killed. The few who don’t flat out hate them still aren’t excited to be around middlings. Meaning Conrad can’t tell anyone, not even his best friends, what he really is.

Conrad hides in plain sight by being a part of the volunteer Watch, those magically gifted who protect their cities from dangerous, arcane threats. And, to pay the bills, Conrad moonlights as a private detective and monster hunter for the gifted community. Which helps him keep up his personal fiction – that he’s a magical version of Batman. Conrad does both jobs thanks to charms, artifacts, and his wits, along with copious amounts of coffee. But little does he know that events are about to change his life…forever.

When Conrad discovers the Traveling Fair auction house has another middling who’s just manifested her so-called powers on the auction block, he’s determined to save her, regardless of risk. But what he finds out while doing so is even worse – the winning bidder works for a company that’s just created the most dangerous chemical weapon to ever hit the magical community.

Before Conrad can convince anyone at the Watch of the danger, he’s exposed for what he really is. Now, stripped of rank, magical objects, friends and allies, Conrad has to try to save the world with only his wits. Thankfully though, no one’s taken away his coffee.

Prometheus Award Hall of Fame finalist and one of the 100 best science fiction novels from 1949-1984 as selected by critic David Pringle.

This classic of libertarian science fiction explores how the citizens of a near-future Los Angeles wrestle with poverty, privacy, and technology when faced with a choice between corporate feudalism and government dysfunction.

In a dystopian future, where pollution, overpopulation, and violence overrun Los Angeles streets, a Utopia flourishes. Todos Santos is thousand-foot-high arcology, a self-contained single-structured city that rises above the festering skyscrapers to offer its privileged residents the perfect blend of technology and security in exchange for their oath of allegiance and vigilance.

But is this orderly city elevating humanity, or shackling it? There are those who feel the constant video surveillance oppressive, rather than inclusive, or that the city is monopolizing hard-earned resources, and taking money away from the poorer Angelinos.

Connected through neural implants to MILLIE – the AI that runs all of Todos Santos’ systems – Art Bonner and Barbara Churchwood work with a team of dedicated staff to protect the city against the FROMATEs ("Friends of Man and the Earth”), who are a group of anti-technology zealots dedicated to destroying everything they have built. When three youths break into the city, to see if they can exploit its weaknesses, the repercussions of their actions threaten to bring one of humanities most ambitious projects to its knees...

Published in 1981, Oath of Fealty is one of several works by Larry Niven and Jerry Pournelle, including The Mote in God's Eye (1974) and Lucifer's Hammer (1977).

It is time to start the colonizing the solar system. Ex-astronaut, current space advisor, and all-out trouble shooter for the President, Jake Ross, is determined to make it happen.

And what better way to return to America’s glory than by returning to the moon and setting up a permanent moon-base which can then serve as the launching pad for Mars and beyond.

But as usual, political intrigue and conflicting priorities are threatening the whole program. Add to that a President who is about to die, a strong contingent in the legislative body which thinks that money spent on a moon-base is money wasted and the general apathy of the public, and you have an almost impossible task.

Even NASA, natural enthusiasts of a project like this, are dragging their feet because they have lost control of the top spot in the project.

However, none of those opposing forces have contended with the resolve and the skill of Jake Ross. He will create the base on the moon. He will send humans out to many worlds.

It is the summer of 2007. The sun is shining, music is dancing on the air, and kids are playing in the streets. What they don’t know, though, is that slug-like creatures have come to Earth in flying saucers, attacking the world and its people. By attaching themselves to people’s backs and taking control of their nervous systems, the slug’s use humans as puppets with the intention of taking over the whole world. Earth is quietly thrown into chaos—but a few special agents could save them all.

Sam, Mary, and The Old Man—the head of the clandestine national security agency called the Section—travel to Iowa to investigate a report involving a flying saucer as well as the disappearance of six agents previously on the case. Learning that the city is being overrun by slugs, they are disheartened to learn that they can’t convince the US President to officially declare an emergency.

The three are attacked but manage to escape. However, a slug is able to escape with them. The situation becomes more dire when Sam gets taken over and the slug starts using Sam’s vast skills and knowledge to facilitate the invasion.

Is this the beginning of the end for the human race?

From futuristic societies, robots, and time travel to magic, monsters, and a world on the brink of war, the first book in this classic 1960s science fantasy adventure series is an action-packed mash-up of the best speculative fiction has to offer.

Rod Gallowglass is a spacefaring man of science who does not believe in magic. He is also an agent of the intergalactic federation SCENT who stumbles across a strange new planet in his quest to spread democracy and enlightenment across the galaxy.

Gramarye is a medieval world of witches and warlocks, and all manner of mythical creatures. Aided by his faithful companion Fess, an epileptic robot, Rod discovers the planet is in political turmoil, and extensive off-world influence organizations plan to corrupt the planet away from democratic rule.

The only way to thwart these destructive influences (both local and those created from the outside) is for Rod Gallowglass to become a part of the local fabric and lead Gramarye as one of their own. But to do so, he must put aside his own convictions and beliefs, and become a warlock, in spite of himself.

Originally published in 1969, The Warlock in Spite of Himself is a classic science fiction adventure and a political allegory of its time written against the backdrop of the Vietnam War and the rising threat of totalitarian regimes. 

A CAEZIK Notable book. CAEZIK Notables is a series of speculative-fiction books marking important milestones in science fiction or fantasy. Each book published in the series has a new introduction highlighting the book’s significance within the genre.

Bolo is one of the original titles of Military science fiction and considered a classic by many of the writers in the genre who consider this a seminal work that shaped their own storytelling.

The book describes the evolution of intelligent fighting machines. As the capabilities of artificial intelligence increased, the Bolo division of General Motors started working on tank designs that incorporated awareness and intelligence within the development of their tactical tanks.

With each new generation, these awesome fighting machines become more self-aware, with capabilities not only matching their human controllers, but often surpassing them.

This collection of action-packed stories lets the Bolo war machines speak for themselves as they hunt and destroy all who stands in their way. But beyond the action itself, these stories speak to us all on a very human level ... about the far-reaching, and often tragic, consequences of our actions.

Hugo Award Winner

Many of Heinlein’s fans consider the novels he wrote in the fifties amongst the author’s strongest work; when he was at the peak of his talents. Double Star is considered by many to be the finest of his titles. Brian Aldiss called it his “most enjoyable novel.”

Whether it is the simplicity of a lively tale, the complexity of the situation, or the depth of characterization, the book has developed a loyal following. It also won Heinlein his first Hugo.

The story revolves around Lawrence Smith—also known as “Lorenzo the Great”—a down-and-out actor wasting the remainder of his life in bars.

When he encounters a space-pilot who offers him a drink, before he knows what is going on, he is on Mars involved in a deep conspiracy with global consequences. He is given a mission where failure would not only mean his own death, it would almost certainly mean an all-out planetary war.

“Heinlein’s novels of the 1940s and 50s shaped every single science fiction writer of my generation and everyone currently writing science fiction. Or making science fiction movies ... and Double Star is an excellent example of all the reasons why.”—Connie Willis

CAEZIK Notables is a new line of science fiction and fantasy titles that have had a significant impact on their respective genre. Each book has a unique place in the development of speculative fiction. Every title published under the CAEZIK notables line will have a matching cover set and will carry an introduction by an expert in the field.

“A charming protagonist in a story as sleekly engineered as a starship. This one should fly.”—Publishers Weekly

Friday is a secret courier and ardent lover. Employed by a man she only knows of as “Boss”, she is given the most awkward and dangerous cases, which take her from New Zealand to Canada, and through the new States of America’s disunion, all the way out into the stars and the new colony of Botany Bay.

Thrust into one calamity after another, she uses her enhanced wits and very many skills to evade, seduce or even kill her way out of any sticky situation she finds herself in. For she is both superior and inferior to the average human.

As an AP—artificial person—the best humanity has to offer has been written into Friday’s DNA. Yet she is often treated like a second-class citizen—if she were ever able to claim citizenship. Her mother was the test tube and her father the knife, as the saying goes, so she has less rights than the biologically-born human, and no soul, according to the church.

But in Friday Heinlein has created one of the most enlightened, warm, engaging, and humane characters in the science fiction field, gifting us a novel of female empowerment that was well ahead of its time.

“One of Heinlein’s best, which is to say one of the best in all of Science Fiction—terrific story with a superbly realized heroine and world.”—Poul Anderson

“An absolutely essential and 'must read' novel for the legions of Robert Heinlein fans, The Pursuit of the Pankera: A Parallel Novel About Parallel Universes is an extraordinary work of science fiction”—Midwest Book Review

"Heinlein still offers a rollicking ride even after all these years."— The Oklahoman

The Pursuit of the Pankera is one of the most audacious experiments ever done in science fiction by the legendary author of the classic bestseller Starship Troopers.

Robert A. Heinlein wrote The Number of the Beast, which was published in 1980. In the book Zeb, Deety, Hilda and Jake are ambushed by the alien “Black Hats” and barely escape with their lives on a specially configured vehicle (the Gay Deceiver) which can travel along various planes of existence, allowing them to visit parallel universes.

However, unknown to most fans, Heinlein had already written a “parallel” novel about the four characters and parallel universes in 1977. He effectively wrote two parallel novels about parallel universes. The novels share the same start, but as soon as the Gay Deceiver is used to transport them to a parallel universe, each book transports them to a totally different parallel world.

From that point on the plot lines diverge completely. While The Number of the Beast morphs into something very different, more representative of later Heinlein works, The Pursuit of the Pankera remains on target with a much more traditional Heinleinesque storyline and ending, reminiscent of his earlier works.

The Pursuit of the Pankera was never published and there have been many competing theories as to why (including significant copyright issues in 1977). Over time the manuscript was largely forgotten but survived in fragments. A recent re-examination of these fragments, however, made it clear that put together in the right order they constituted the complete novel.

And here it finally is: Robert A. Heinlein’s audacious experiment. A fitting farewell from one of the most inventive science fiction writers to have ever lived: a parallel novel about parallel universes as well as a great adventure pitting the forces of good versus evil only the way Heinlein could do.

“In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.”— First Corinthians 15:52

"Three alarming, eclectic novellas imagine a ravaged America left behind by the totalitarian reign of Donald Trump in this chilling anthology, which picks up after Trump’s death in 2024 during 'the second great COVID outbreak' "—Publishers Weekly

From New York Times bestselling author, Harry Turtledove, critically-acclaimed novelist, James Morrow, and Nebula Award winner, Cat Rambo, comes a masterful anthology of three sensational novellas depicting a dark fictional future of the United States.

And the Last Trump Shall Sound is a prophetic warning about where we, as a nation, may be headed. Mike Pence is President of the United States after years of divisive, dogmatic control by Donald Trump. The country is in turmoil as the Republicans have strengthened their stronghold on Congress, increasing their dominance. And with the support of the Supreme Court, more conservative than ever, State governments become more marginalized by the authoritarian rule of the Federal government.

There are those who cannot abide by what they view as a betrayal of the nation’s founding principles. Once united communities break down and the unthinkable suddenly becomes the only possible solution: the end of the Union.

The authors’ depiction of a country that is both unfamiliar and yet unnervingly all too realistic, make you realize the frightening possible consequences of our increased polarization—a dire warning to all of us of where we may be headed unless we can learn to come together again.