I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
A desperate race to the center of the universe sends a Captain and his crew on a dangerous mission with little hope of returning in author Jayson Adams’s “Infernum”.
The Synopsis
A weapon of unimaginable power. A desperate mission to the center of the galaxy. Mankind’s fate hangs in the balance.
Captain Thomas Holbrook has wondered how he would brave being sent on a one-way mission. When he receives cryptic orders to divert his CentCom warship to the black hole at the center of the galaxy, a region from which no vessel has ever returned, he stubbornly refuses to take them at face value.
It’s the year 2330. The “aughts,” robots that won independence from their human creators, seek insurance against the ever-present human threat. An aught ship speeds to the galactic center to collect Planck Matter, a substance formed in the heart of black holes, the basis of a weapon that could destroy the Earth.
CentCom can’t allow the aughts to obtain Planck Matter. They enlist the help of Dr. Rebekah Riesen, a brilliant, beautiful, reincarnated physicist with her own reasons for joining a mission that might not return, and Tentek, an aught informant whom Holbrook’s executive officer insists is a double agent. Together, they must travel to the galactic center while keeping a mutinous crew at bay, stop the aughts from obtaining Planck Matter, and somehow find a way back home.
The Review
I absolutely loved this sci-fi read. The author was able to capture the raw emotions and world-building that Battlestar Galactica captured (the 2003 remake), without sacrificing the realistic dialogue and intensity that this narrative demands. The powerful themes that the author explores here, from philosophical debates of reincarnation and faith in a time of scientific discovery to the idea of AI gaining sentience and the dual nature of humanity between the darkest moments they exude and the hope that comes from their persistence for life all come crashing down into this layered and driven story.
It was the alternating POVs and rich character development that really drew me into the narrative. The interactions and ways in which these characters came together felt very natural in such a rich sci-fi story. Yet the way the author crafted a narrative that employed both original sci-fi elements and yet felt very grounded at the same time allowed for a more entertaining and gripping read.
The Verdict
Thought-provoking, action-packed, and engaging, author Jayson Adams’s “Infernum” is a must-read sci-fi novel of 2022! The rich character development and balance of humanity with outstanding mythos made this story shine so brightly. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
At age sixteen Jayson dreamed of starting a software company and retiring by twenty-five. He achieved his dream just before thirty, working for the likes of Steve Jobs and selling one of his start-ups along the way. Five years later he returned to computers with another start-up. He currently works at Google.
Computers were always Jayson’s creative outlet, the screen a “blank slate.” He now channels his creative energies into writing compelling science fiction.
1) Tell us a little bit about yourself. How did you get into writing?
My writing journey began soon after my early love of reading blossomed. When I was eleven I began writing a sci-fi novel about traveling to Mars, but I didn’t get past the first page where my character spies the planet through his spaceship’s porthole. Always a dreamer. Throughout school and college I wrote for campus newspapers and envisioned a career in journalism, beginning as a sportswriter and eventually launching into poetry and fiction. But my sparce finances and the draft intervened. I fell into many other jobs along the way, particularly in tech, but I tried to maintain my literary trajectory.
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2) What inspired you to write your book?
While I was working full time and going to school, I only had enough brain share for poetry and short fiction. But during those smoky evenings when I sat around the stereo trading stories with my friends, they seemed to enjoy my hitchhiking experiences. At some point I had a Kerouac moment and decided to record my oral history and forge it into a novel.
3) What theme or message do you hope readers will take away from your book?
In many ways, the Vietnam Era portrayed in Lucky Ride mirrors our current emotional and political landscape, especially how people feel alienated from the establishment and from one another. Returning home from the military, Flash the narrator feels like an outsider who must build a new life. In his case, an unraveling marriage creates further complications, but he retains a sense of humor and hope based on his closest friendships. If we asked him, his message would be to find a relationship you trust and build from there.
4) What drew you into this particular genre?
I wanted to write a story readers would enjoy, and I was drawn to the structure of a road novel because of its continuous adventure and opportunity for humor. Each ride presents its own challenges, but Flash also draws ever closer to reconciling his marriage and his military experience with his desires for the future. His trip begins with a goal of escape and evolves into much more.
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5) If you could sit down with any character in your book, what would you ask them and why?
In the novel we see the character of Flash’s wife Ronnie though his eyes in his role as first person narrator, although he gathers some perspective from other characters. Because of the pain of her apparent betrayal, Flash is not really an objective observer. It would be interesting to hear more of her side of the story.
6) What social media site has been the most helpful in developing your readership?
I have learned a lot from studying authors I admire and how they use social media, and I have read several excellent books and attended many courses and workshops. The authority I return to most often is Jane Friedman, who has advice on everything from building a website to preparing a manuscript and querying an agent: https://www.janefriedman.com/
7) What advice would you give to aspiring or just starting authors out there?
Enjoy the process of writing. The thrill of composing a new poem or story and bringing it into the world is all the reason you need to write. This includes successive editing passes to perfect your words once you have an initial draft. Don’t measure yourself by your number of publications, book sales, or other external factors you can’t control because you’re sure to be disappointed. Just bask in the creative experience.
8) What does the future hold in store for you? Any new books/projects on the horizon?
With Lucky Ride and my poetry collection, The Poet’s Garage, I feel like I’m living a dream, and I never want the moment to end. My second novel, The Bridge on Beer River, will be published by Unsolicited Press in July 2023, and they will publish my second poetry collection in 2024. In addition to writing new poems and stories, I’m editing the rough draft of another novel.
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About the Author
Terry was born in South Dakota and raised in Minneapolis and Cleveland. After serving in the Seabees, he received a BA and MA in English from Binghamton University and a PhD in Victorian Literature from Emory University. He taught college composition and creative writing, and he later survived several Silicon Valley startups as a software engineering manager. His stories and poems have appeared in over forty literary magazines, and his novel Lucky Ride, an irreverent Vietnam era road novel, will be published by Unsolicited Press in 2022. He lives in the San Francisco Bay Area with his wife, a Librarian from the University of California, their son, and their goofy Golden Retriever. Terry’s website is http://terrytierney.com.
I am so beyond thrilled to share this amazing upcoming book, “She’s the One Who Won’t Behave” by author S.R. Cronin, as part of OWI’s latest blog tour. Check out this amazing read and grab your copy today!
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S.R. Cronin has a new fantasy book out, The War Stories of the Seven Troublesome Sisters book 6: She’s the One Who Won’t Behave. And there’s a giveaway!
Gypsum, the sixth of seven sisters, has always been a rebel. Yet no one thought she would go so far as to join the reczavy, a group living in tents on the edge of the desert and known for their sexual promiscuity and playful ways.
But as the date of the Mongols’ return draws near, Ilarians of all types must work together if they are to have any hope of surviving. And the reczavy, for all of their odd ways, do have plenty of tricks up their sleeves. Well, up their sleeves whenever they are bothering to wear clothes, that is.
Gypsum is touched when her oldest sister Ryalgar comes to call, and brings an olive branch with her. Ryalgar recognizes that the reczavy have as much to lose as anyone, and as much to contribute. Will Gypsum accept a key role in the plan to stop the invasion? Of course she will.
Unfortunately, her playmates don’t all feel the same sense of urgency. Many would rather simply enjoy the time they have left. A few claim to be allergic to long term planning. And some are too busy with their own poorly-timed plans to overthrow the government Ilari already has.
Good thing needlepoint is the one traditional skill at which Gypsum has always excelled. She will need to thread a fine needle in order to coax this recalcitrant group into becoming life-saving warriors of a very different kind.
About the Series:
People ask me what The War Stories of the Seven Troublesome Sisters are like. I’d say its Little Women acting like The Seven Samurai in Brigadoon with hints of Sex and the City.
The series consists of seven short companion novels. Each tells the personal story of one of seven radically different sisters in the 1200s as they prepare for an invasion of their realm. These historical fantasy/alternate history books can be enjoyed as stand-alone novels, but together they tell the full story of how Ilari survived.
Which sister saved the realm? That will depend on who you ask.
How do they save it? Each sister will offer you surprising information on why this didn’t go as planned.
Warnings: references to non-consensual sex in the past.
I knew every boy who went to my school and the smiling young man asking me the question was not one of them. He’d joined our circle of tidzys after the others arrived, standing around the fire with us as we sought a partner for the holiday celebration. He’d already introduced himself to several young women. Whatever he murmured incited giggles and a few unmistakable wiggles as well.
When he approached me, these women turned their wide eyes away from his face to give me a narrowed-eye stare of warning. I didn’t understand why. His lighter hair and tanned country physique weren’t that special, although he did have the confidence that makes everyone seem more attractive. And enough an indifference to make a young woman willing to do much to impress him.
I didn’t play games like that.
My first instinct was to make up a ridiculous name. Duck Piss came to mind. Then I decided the name my family had stuck me with was probably ridiculous enough.
“Gypsum. My name is Gypsum.”
“Isn’t that some ugly grey rock?” he asked.
“Yup. It was going to be that or Duck Piss, so I guess I lucked out.”
I turned away from him, and focused my gaze on several attractive men crouching in front of the fire, sharing laughter and ale. As I said, I don’t like stupid games or the men who play them.
“My name is Sheep Scump. Nice to meet you.”
I turned back. “Well, at least you play along.”
“Oh, I play along very well.”
Really?
“So what are you doing here? You got tired of playing with the tidzys over at your own school?”
“No. My school got tired of me. Or rather they tired of my attempts at humor and asked me to seek education elsewhere. I start classes here after the holiday.”
I don’t know why I asked the next question.
“Do your parents know?”
He winced.
“They barely knew which school I was at then.”
“Oh.” Quite different than my overinvolved parents. “What did you do to get kicked out?”
He slipped an arm around my waist and in one slick move he turned the two of us away from the fire.
“I’ve a jug of particularly fine red dinner wine waiting in my saddle bag. I hoped I’d find someone worth sharing it with. Would you care to walk over to the stables while I tell you of my horrendous crimes?”
I liked the feel of him. His smell. Okay, I even liked the undercurrent of hurt under his bravado. And I liked the promise of something better to drink than the cheap ale being handed out around the fire.
“Sure. Let’s walk, talk, and see where this goes.”
He ran his hand up my side and gave my breast a friendly squeeze. I didn’t have much to offer in that area, but he didn’t seem to care.
I put my hand on his butt and squeezed back.
We both knew exactly where this was going.
Author Bio
Sherrie Cronin is the author of a collection of six speculative fiction novels known as 46. Ascending and is now in the process of publishing a historical fantasy series called The War Stories of the Seven Troublesome Sisters. A quick look at the synopses of her books makes it obvious she is fascinated by people achieving the astonishing by developing abilities they barely knew they had.
She’s made a lot of stops along the way to writing these novels. She’s lived in seven cities, visited forty-six countries, and worked as a waitress, technical writer, and geophysicist. Although she’s lost several beloved cats on her journey, she’s been lucky enough to gain a husband and three kids who love her despite how odd she is.
Today she lives and writes in the mountains of Western North Carolina, where she also answers a hot-line, volunteers for SFWA, and plans her future travels.
DC Comics returns for their second annual collection of heroes, villains, and everyone in between celebrating all things Pride related in the graphic novel “DC Pride 2022”.
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The Synopsis
DC’s 2022 celebration kicks off with more stories, more characters, and more pride than ever before! The DC Pride 2022 creative teams, and the characters they’re developing stories for, include:
• Alysia Yeoh and Batgirl by Jadzia Axelrod and Lynne Yoshii
• Aquaman (Jackson Hyde) by Alyssa Wong and W. Scott Forbes
• Green Lantern (Jo Mullein) by Tini Howard and Evan Cagle
• Harley Quinn and Poison Ivy by Dani Fernandez and Zoe Thorogood
• The Ray by Greg Lockard and Giulio Macaione
• Superman (Jon Kent) by Devin Grayson and Nick Robles
• Tim Drake by Travis G. Moore
• A Multiversity: Teen Justice kickoff story spotlighting Kid Quick and written by the miniseries team, Danny Lore and Ivan Cohen!
• An introduction by activist, actress, and real-life superhero Nicole Maines that will include a teaser for her upcoming Dreamer project!
• Pinups by P. Craig Russell, J.J. Kirby, and more!
The Review
Just because the month of June has come and gone doesn’t mean all things Pride must come to an end. Pride is a year-long celebration here on Author Anthony Avina’s Blog, and I had to share this special review of DC’s Pride Anthology. The wonderful array of varying artwork and designs reflected the beautiful collection of writers who brought these powerful and shining heroes to life on the pages of this collection. The inclusion of newly revealed heroes like Jonathan Kent’s Superman and Tim Drake’s Robin as LGBTQ+ heroes was a welcome addition to the roster of characters this collection housed. I loved the action and connectivity to the larger DC Universe within these stories as well.
I absolutely adored the sheer volume of representation these stories and characters had. From Asexual and Bisexual heroes sharing what it means to truly be themselves, to powerful Trans heroes expressing the ever-expansive understanding our culture is starting to understand of the gender identities we all have, this collection had it all. As a special note, I was absolutely floored by actress, activist, and newly revealed writer Nicole Maines with her powerful introduction to this year’s Pride anthology. I’ve been a fan of hers since her introduction to Supergirl as Dreamer, and her honesty, strength, beauty, and sheer talent all shined through so brightly in this collection’s introduction. She is such an inspiration and I cannot wait to read Dreamer’s upcoming series.
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The Verdict
Heartfelt, emotional, and captivating, DC Comic’s “DC Pride 2022” is a must-read LGBTQ+ driven comic book anthology and one of my top reads of 2022. The bright and inspiring artwork blended well with the uplifting, romantic, and heartening stories the authors told through these amazing characters across the DC Multiverse and beyond. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
The Man of Steel Stars in DC’s New Superman: Red & Blue anthology mini-series!
In the spirit of DC’s iconic Eisner Award-winning Batman: Black & White anthology series, DC proudly announces Superman: Red & Blue, a new anthology mini-series presenting fresh new takes on the Man of Steel.
Around the world, everyone knows that when they see a red and blue streak in the sky, it’s not a bird…it’s not a plane…it’s Superman!
Academy Award-winning writer of DC Future State: The Next Batman John Ridley joins artist Clayton Henry (Batman/Superman) to tell a story of Clark Kent as he confronts a villain who still haunts him, in a story that shows what Superman can mean to a whole country.
Brandon Easton (DC Future State’s Mister Miracle) and Steve Lieber (Superman’s Pal Jimmy Olsen) take readers to the streets of Metropolis to show how one hero can mean so much to an individual in pain.
Writer/artist Wes Craig (Deadly Class) tells a tale of Superman’s early days and the man who inspired him to become the hero he is today!
Marguerite Bennett (DC Future State: Kara Zor-El, Superwoman) and artist Jill Thompson (The Sandman, Black Orchid) give us a tale of teenage Clark Kent, while Dan Watters and Dani, the team behind Coffin Bound, bring us an outlandish fable about what happens when all colors are stolen!
This collection includes Superman Red & Blue #1-6
The Verdict
I absolutely loved this anthology series. The authors and artists who presented this wide range of different interpretations of the iconic hero did a great job of not only showing individuality and creativity with their work but of showcasing the unique characteristics that make Superman the hero that he is. The humanity that he shows through his heroics and his care for everyone, from the child being bullied on the playground to the inter-dimensional imp plaguing his world and beyond, is what makes Superman so great, and that heart shines through in these stories.
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Superman: Son of Kal-El Vol. 1: The Truth
The Synopsis
A new Man of Steel for a new era! Jonathan Kent dons his father’s cape as the 21st century Superman in this new series, from the bestselling writer of DCeased and Injustice!
Jonathan Kent has experienced a lot in his young life. He’s fought evil with Robin, traveled across galaxies with his Kryptonian grandfather, and lived in the future with the Legion of Super-Heroes, who were intent on training him for the day his father could no longer be Superman.
There is a hole in the Legion’s history that prevents Jon from knowing exactly when that will happen, but all signs point to it being very soon. It’s time for the son to wear his father’s cape and continue the never-ending battle as a symbol of hope for his home planet.
But can Jon be Superman and still have a normal life? The son of Clark Kent and Lois Lane will learn the hard way as he heads to college and combats the dangers of the modern world.
Superstar writer Tom Taylor (DCeased, Injustice) teams with visionary artist John Timms (Future State: Superman of Metropolis) to tell the saga of the 21st century Superman!
This volume collects Superman: Son of Kal-El #1-6.
The Verdict
I loved this new direction for the Superman comics. After years of getting to see Clark Kent’s journey, watching him pass the baton of Earth’s protector to his son was such a brilliant move on DC’s part. The duality of Jon’s story was great to watch in this comic. Firstly, the journey to discovering his path as Superman, from living in his father’s shadow to trying to live up to the ideal the mantle has had for years, was really heartfelt to watch, as was his struggle once his father left on his galactic journey of his own. Yet it was introducing Jon’s exploration of his sexuality and showcasing a new type of Superman, as well as his new relationship, that made him an instant icon that I cannot wait to read more about. If you haven’t yet, I highly recommend this comic series!
Teen Titans Academy, Vol. 1: X Marks His Spot
The Synopsis
The original New Teen Titans have reteamed and formed the Titans Academy to teach the next generation of superpowered teens …if the students can survive the training.
Nightwing, Starfire, Raven, Beast Boy, Cyborg and Donna Troy are the teachers at the school and will pass along their knowledge to the young recruits looking to learn how to use their powers to reach their full potential.
Meet the student body – a new Australian Speedster who runs on prosthetics, a trio of Batman obsessed Goth kids from Gotham, a teen expatriate from Gorilla City and a kid who’s possibly the anti-Christ.
Plus, Billy Batson has enrolled to master his powers as Shazam!
But the big mystery is the which member of this first class is the mysterious Red X.
Fans of any era of the Teen Titans will love this new graphic novel collection that continues the legacy.
Collecting Teen Titans Academy #1-5, Suicide Squad #3, Teen Titans Academy Yearbook #1
The Verdict
I was so invested in this series. I’ve been a longtime fan of the Teen Titans, and this new direction showing the Titans becoming teachers and instructors gave serious Xavier Academy vibes from Marvel. The new class of heroes and the mysteries surrounding them were so engaging, and the return of some shocking characters, both heroes and villains alike, will have fans on the edge of their seats. Yet it is the tie into the Future State storyline teased previously about the apocalypse that had me hooked, as I’m interested to see if the heroes can prevent that horrible future from coming to life. The artwork perfectly contrasted the bright heroes and the dark and gritty future that they are fighting to avoid. A must-read!
Batman: The Detective
The Synopsis
An epic tale begins that will take Batman on a harrowing, action-packed European adventure in a new miniseries by superstar creators Tom Taylor and Andy Kubert!
A horrific tragedy in the United Kingdom sends a very personal and deadly message to the Dark Knight–one that will draw Batman out of Gotham City to investigate! From the moment he lands in Europe, Batman will face a difficult investigation and unheard-of adversaries and find the assistance of a partner once more–all in the hunt for the villain known as Equilibrium! New villains! New allies! A thrilling overseas adventure begins for the Dark Knight!
As Batman’s pursuit goes on, the mystery around the organization known as Equilibrium deepens! Just who are these enigmatic villains, and why are they out to erase the Dark Knight’s legacy? And how does Henri Ducard play into all this–can this face from Bruce Wayne’s past be the key to it all?
Collects Batman: The Detective #1-6.
The Verdict
After getting so many adventures of Batman and his crusade in Gotham, getting to see Bruce Wayne and his influence as the caped crusader on a global scale was so engaging to read. The idea of confronting villains of our own making and the past catching up to us is always one of the most interesting story devices in comic books, and this gritty story does a great job of blending the international mystery genre with murder mysteries. A definite must-read!
Batman: Reptilian
The Synopsis
What strikes fear into the hearts of those who terrorize Gotham? It used to be Batman, but something far more frightening stalks the shadows-and it’s after Gotham’s villains, leaving a trail of carnage through the underworld. Now, with Riddler, Penguin, Two-Face, and many more left bloodied and broken in its wake, Batman opens the case on this mysterious reptilian menace and finds himself vexed by one very important question: What on Earth is it? Collects Batman: Reptilian #1-6.
The Verdict
One of the strangest, most bizarre Batman series to date, and yet I loved it. A very dark, grittier version of the dark knight than we know, the story is a great juxtaposition of the almost animalistic nature of the crime itself, as well as the ruthless nature that Batman himself can go to if he allowed himself to stop caring altogether. If Batman were to become a creature feature, this would be that story! A brilliant departure from the typical Batman lore, and the almost abstract horror artwork style really kept the reader invested.
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Mister Miracle
The Synopsis
No prison can hold him. No trap can contain him. He is Scott Free, the worldwide celebrity sensation known as Mister Miracle, and he is the greatest escape artist who ever lived. But can he pull off the ultimate trick–and escape death itself?
Something has gone horribly wrong with the perfect life that Scott and his wife Big Barda have made for themselves on Earth. With war raging between their homeworlds of Apokolips and New Genesis, Scott’s cruel adoptive father, Darkseid, seems to have finally found the Anti-Life Equation–the weapon that will give him total victory.
As the mountains of bodies on both sides grow ever higher, only Mister Miracle can stop the slaughter and restore peace. But the terrible power of the Anti-Life Equation may already be at work in his own mind, warping his reality and shattering the fragile happiness he’s found with the woman he loves.
Is death the trap that’s been waiting for him all along? Or is it life itself? And what price will Scott Free have to pay to learn the answer?
Eisner Award winners Tom King and Mitch Gerads present a bold new vision of one of Jack Kirby’s greatest creations with Mister Miracle–powerful, intimate and utterly unique, this modern comics classic will challenge everything you know about super-heroism!
Collects Mister Miracle #1-12.
The Verdict
I loved this series! The exploration of Mister Miracle as a person and his family life with Big Barda was amazing to behold, and the way that family life mirrored the ruthless nature of Apocalypse and the relentless war between Apocalypse and New Genesis was so fascinating to read. The writing style very much reminded me of another recent run of DC Comics graphic novel, Strange Adventures. The grim war that delves into the complex dynamics of Scott Free and his role in the battle against Darkseid is an incredible story to delve into. A definite must-read!
Justice League Infinity
The Synopsis
Return to the world of the beloved Justice League Unlimited animated series with all-new comic book adventures!
From the producer of Justice League Unlimited James Tucker and animated series writer J.M. DeMatteis comes all-new adventures starring the World’s Greatest Heroes!
There is a being wandering the universe searching for its true purpose, but what it finds out one the furthest edges of the cosmos will change not just our universe, but multiple universes! Across the globe, people begin disappearing, replaced with different but similar individuals. So where is Superman and who is his evil counterpart–the monstrous Overman?
In order to get to the bottom of what’s happening, the Justice League will need to first take down the new villain! And what horrors are revealed in the twisted mirror room?!
In the tradition of Batman: The Adventures Continue, this series returns to the world of the fan-favorite Justice League and Justice League Unlimited animated series, presenting fresh stories starring Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman, the Flash, Green Lantern, Hawkgirl, and Martian Manhunter!
This volume collects Justice League Infinity #1-7.
The Verdict
As a longtime fan of the original Batman, Superman, and Justice League animated series universe, I was so happy to see this comic book series coming to life. Finally introducing the multiverse concept to this animated series was an inspired choice, introducing everything from the Vandal Savage-led Nazi world housing a Nazi-version of Superman, a world in which Darkseid married a certain Amazonian hero, and so much more. The artwork matched the original animation perfectly, and the rich story expanded the already engaging world that the shows had already left behind, leaving me wanting a new animated series to pick up where this comic series leaves off. A must-read for longtime JLU fans!
Dark Ages
The Synopsis
This is what the Watcher has been watching for. A danger older than the Earth threatens everything. And for once, the heroes who have saved the planet time and again find themselves almost completely powerless in the face of it. X-Men and Avengers will assemble. Spider-people and the Fantastic Four will come together. Heroes for Hire will fight alongside Champions. But none of it will be enough. The lights are about to go out. The world outside our window…is about to end. Nothing can prepare you for an all-new saga of the Marvel Universe as you’ve never seen it before — from acclaimed talents Tom Taylor and Iban Coello!
COLLECTING: Dark Ages (2021) 1-6
The Verdict
This was such a brilliant dystopian What If…? series from Marvel. The exploration of a Marvel universe without power or electricity was an inspired choice, given how high-tech the Marvel universe and its heroes has always been. The devastation and loss from the initial event drives home the dangerous world the heroes have inherited, and the cast of villains who band together in the wake of this event will have Marvel fans eager to see how the heroes will respond. The modern artwork brings the deadly world to life in a visceral way, and with everyone at risk and no one safe, this is one series fans won’t want to miss. A definite must-read for Marvel fans!
Strange Academy: First Class
The Synopsis
The Marvel Universe’s first school for sorcerers throws open its doors! The world has mysteriously changed in such an alarming way that Doctor Strange has finally done what he has avoided for decades – established an academy for the Mystic Arts! Young people from around the world with an aptitude for magic are brought together in New Orleans to study under Stephen Strange, Brother Voodoo, the Ancient One, the Scarlet Witch, Magik, Daimon Hellstrom and all your favorite Marvel mages. But with so many new and deadly magical menaces lurking out there, is the Academy too little too late?! School’s in session – and it’s going to be spellbinding!
COLLECTING: STRANGE ACADEMY (2020) 1-6
The Verdict
With magic has always been such a prominent component of the Marvel universe, the exploration of the next generation of Marvel magic wielders was an inspired choice for a brand new series. Having an academy opened by Doctor Strange but featuring other prominent magic users such as Doctor Voodoo and others was such a nice touch. Each new student’s backstory and history are so engaging, and I love the story explored through Doyle, the son of Dormammu, who is plagued by nightmares of the role he has been told he will play in the future prophecy involving his father’s grand designs. It was a fun, creative, and world-expanding series!
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Champions, Vol. 1: Outlawed
The Synopsis
In the wake of a devastating tragedy, the United States passes a law outlawing teenage super heroes! The crackdown has begun, and the lives of Marvel’s next generation will never be the same again. This new law goes against everything that Ms. Marvel, Nova and Spider-Man founded the Champions for…and they know that the world still needs heroes. They won’t go down without a fight! But as a group of teen vigilantes gathers to plan their next move, the task force called CRADLE is hot on their trail – and there’s a spy in their midst! As protests break out across Chicago, the Champions risk their freedom to restore order – but why has Chicago’s hometown hero Ironheart abandoned the Champions?
COLLECTING: OUTLAWED (2020) 1, CHAMPIONS (2020) 1-5
The Verdict
This was such a fascinating and engaging series. The Champions have quickly become a fan favorite new teen superhero team, and the complex nature of their dynamics has made them a much sought-after hero group. The exploration of the themes this story introduces mirror past stories like Civil War and Civil War II, but add a unique twist. The idea of teen or children superheroes has always been complex, given their age and the understanding of the consequences of their actions. Yet the other side of the coin is the exploration of their rights and the need to address these teens in a non-confrontational way and to ensure they share the same rights as adults, making this such a complex storyline that I loved delving into. Mix that with bright artwork and action-packed storylines and you have a must-read series!
Magnificent Ms. Marvel, Vol. 1: Destined
The Synopsis
Ms. Marvel is back – and she’s magnificent! But there’s no such thing as business as usual in Jersey City. Aliens are wreaking havoc in Kamala’s corner of the world, and they seem weirdly interested in Ms. Marvel…and her family! Kamala is about to face a devastating loss – but with an alien invasion ravaging her neighborhood, she’s not going to have much time to grieve. Even if Kamala saves her hometown, will her life ever be the same? And what’s all this business about a “Chosen One”? Eisner Award-winner Saladin Ahmed (BLACK BOLT, EXILES) and rising star Minkyu Jung take the reins of one of Marvel’s most beloved new characters, with the shocking start of an all-new era!
COLLECTING: MAGNIFICENT MS. MARVEL #1-6
The Verdict
The exploration of Kamala’s home life and her connection to her parents has never been stronger than in this series. The galactic nature of the beginning of her journey, as well as the emotional aspects of her journey of learning of a devastating health crisis amongst her family, kept the story both grounded and out of this world (pun intended). The culture and importance of Kamala Khan’s heroics have never been needed more, and the warm artwork reflects that perfectly in the story. A definite must-read!
House of X/Powers of X
The Synopsis
Mutants are the future, and the future begins now! Superstar writer Jonathan Hickman (INFINITY, SECRET WARS) takes the reigns of the X-Men universe with artists Pepe Larraz and R.B. Silva to change the way you look at every X-Men story. HOUSE OF X and POWERS OF X intertwine to reveal the secret past, present, future, and far future of Mutantkind! It all starts when Charles Xavier reveals his new masterplan for Mutantkind, one that will bring mutants out of the shadow of humanity and into the light.
COLLECTING: House of X 1-6, Powers of X 1-6
The Verdict
I am in love with the new direction the X-Men side of Marvel is taking. The establishment of a successful nation of mutants, as well as the secret history of Moira MacTaggart as a mutant herself, were too amazing to read. The alternating timelines gave a brilliant glimpse into the past, present, and future of mutant-kind, and showed both the highs and lows of life where mutants could finally feel free and equal. Seeing mutants who became enemies long ago coming together was such an intriguing idea, and seeing the Marvel universe’s reactions to this new power rising in the world was so brilliantly captured. A definite must-read for longtime mutant and Marvel fans!
Deadpool by Skottie Young, Vol. 1: Mercin’ Hard for the Money
The Synopsis
Deadpool is back to mercin’ for a living! It’s been a while since Wade Wilson has struggled to make ends meet, but things are tough all over. While Deadpool tries to get his humble mercenary-for-hire business back off the ground, a catastrophic threat so unfathomably huge – so mind-breakingly cataclysmic that it defies description – is heading toward Earth, and there’s only one person who can stop it! Oh no, wait…it’s not Deadpool, is it? Oh, %$@#. It’s Deadpool. Good thing he has a plan. But what happens when things take a turn for the weird – Weirdworld, that is? Find out as Wade ventures into a realm of monsters, sorceresses, Man-Things…and romance? Is this part of the plan?! Hop back on board the Deadpool train as Skottie Young and Nic Klein reinvent the Merc with a Mouth!
COLLECTING: DEADPOOL (2018) 1-6
The Verdict
This was a truly incredible and masterful story to bring readers back into the twisted mind of Deadpool. Getting back to basics and showcasing the merc’s return as a…well, as a merc, was great to read. Being able to read the Avenger’s connection to his arc and how he views their dialogue and interactions was great to see, as was the use of Negasonic Teenage Warhead as his intern of sorts. The action and hilarious storylines were well developed, as were the character’s typical fourth-wall-breaking quips. An iconic yet still fan favorite must-read series!
On an Earth shockingly similar to the Marvel Universe’s, an alien virus has mutated all of the world’s greatest super heroes into flesh-eating monsters! It took them only hours to destroy life as we know it – but what happens when they run out of humans to eat?
The Verdict
Throwing this back to an iconic and beloved What If…? series, as a longtime horror fan, this was the perfect Marvel comic series for me. The grim and horrific nature of the Marvel universe in this series shows the depth of horror that the heroes sink into when this virus corrupts them completely. The brutality and violence that overcomes them highlight not only the scare factor this series bring but just how powerful of a threat the heroes could be if they were to ever be turned, showing the dark side of heroism in the Marvel universe. A definite must-read for any Marvel Comics fan!
Tell us a little bit about yourself. How did you get into writing?
For some reason, when I was 18, I got it into my head that I wanted to write a book. Being a child who was very focused on maths and science growing up, I wasn’t particularly good at writing. This meant I had to learn how to write while I was an adult. The process was a little shocking, actually. I couldn’t believe the things I didn’t know! Surely I went to school?
What inspired you to write your book?
Death, sadly. I cover this a lot at the end of the book. But after a good friend of mine died at 24, I felt lost. I have been an atheist since I was ten and was happy with the prospect of there being no afterlife. But when my friend died, I was faced with the reality that everything she was was no longer in the universe. That was hard. In a way, I wrote this book to rage against the unfairness of reality. The Archivist is my creation that will keep loved ones tethered to me. It’s a fantasy I can escape into. I hope others escape there too.
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What theme or message do you hope readers will take away from your book?
I hope they enjoy the story more than anything. I don’t like books that preach. However, I think it would be difficult for this book not to light some kind of spark inside the reader. What I hope I’ve portrayed is a flawed system, as opposed to something we can all agree is amazing like having superpowers. On the surface, archivists seem like a wonderful idea that we should want to have in our world, but scratch the surface and you learn they only bring suffering.
I suppose then, if I want the reader to take away anything from the story, it is that death is real and one day they will have to face it. First, the people they love, then their own death. They can believe whatever story they need to calm their feelings, but that doesn’t shield them from the truth. Enjoy your life, enjoy the lives of others. We’ve all only got the one. Don’t waste it.
What drew you into this particular genre?
What genre is this? I called it dark fantasy, buy I’m not sure that’s accurate. Death fantasy, perhaps? Either way, I don’t think I was drawn to the genre, I think the book led me there. I wrote the story I wanted to write then when I took a step back, I understood that it was the genre it became. I never set out to write a specific genre, just a story I wanted told.
If you could sit down with any character in your book, what would you ask them and why?
I’d ask Sun-young what would make her happy. Sun has been in my head for a long time and so she feels like a part of me. I want her to be happy. Perhaps if I write a sequel, I could give her that happiness.
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What social media site has been the most helpful in developing your readership?
Goodreads has been the best, though you do have to prepare yourself for some brutal reviews. I may not have received any of those myself, but I’m still prepared. I check for them around every corner, waiting to jump out at me and criticize my hard work!
What advice would you give to aspiring or just starting authors out there?
Work at your own pace and write your own story. Writing won’t make you rich. Make sure you have a job, or better yet, a career, and write for your own enjoyment. If you are self publishing, put your money where your mouth is. Don’t toss out some nonsense on KDP without going through several rounds of professional editing. Edit your story, pay for a professional cover and be exacting with what you want. When you get a great review, let that warm feeling of satisfaction run through you for day. When you get a bad review, tell yourself that no story is loved by everyone, buy yourself some chocolate and get on with your life.
What does the future hold in store for you? Any new books/projects on the horizon?
I have another book in second draft that I hope to get out in two to three years. This one is middle grade science fiction about a girl who sells time and lives with a robot at the base of a space elevator. I’m really excited by it. Totally different to The Archivist, but then I like books to be different and for authors to explore the wider universe of stories.
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About the Author
V S Nelson writes unconventional middle grade and young adult fantasy, science fiction and supernatural stories for readers who enjoy something a little strange.
Their first story was The Keeper of Portals, a middle grade fantasy/sci-fi with plenty of portal jumping and time slipping. Their second story, The Archivist, is a young adult dark fantasy all about death and what happens after.
V S Nelson loves big ideas, fantastical concepts and stories that unsettle the reader and set them thinking about something new.
V S Nelson lives in Winchester with their other half, two children and three cats. When not writing, they’re either working as a theoretical physicist or building Lego.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
A young woman seeking to find others like herself discovers the school of elementals she just joined will show her how different she is even among her fellow elementals, and two dark factions will rise in response in author TC Marti’s “Tarja Titan”, the first book in The Terrian Chronicles series.
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The Synopsis
Abused and neglected for nearly a decade, Tarja Titan always longed for a home…
But she didn’t anticipate the reception she’d receive upon her return to a world she thought only existed in fiction.
Tarja has always been different. And when she enrolls in Celestial University of the Northeast, she’s elated to mingle with other Elementals, a race of supernaturals with the ability to control one of the nine elements.
Problem is, Tarja’s different even among Elemental standards. It was something she neither anticipated nor wanted, but if she refuses to seek out her calling, TWO dark factions will rise.
This isn’t your classic good v. evil; something Tarja learns the hard way.
The Review
Immediately, from the book’s first pages, I was struck by the idea that this book was a cross between Cinderella, The Magicians, and A conspiracy thriller! The unique world-building and mythos were complimented by the author’s ability to capture the heart of the narrative and highlight the complex reality of life, showing that things are not always about good vs evil, but are far more often found in the shades of grey that surround us all.
The magic, abilities, and setting of the story in this alternative history of our own world were a great vehicle for the author’s incredible character development. Tarja Titan was a brilliant protagonist, becoming the heart and soul of the story and representing the outsider who would become pivotal to a centuries-long battle so ideally. I loved her relationship with Braden Hawk, her godbrother who saves her from the torment she was living in to start of the novel. The mystery surrounding her backstory and the events that brought her such infamy among Elemental society was so fun and engaging to dive into, and the author’s pacing was perfect for bringing this part of her story to life at just the right speed.
The Verdict
Captivating, entertaining, and mind-blowing, author TC Marti’s “Tarja Titan: A Terrian Chronicles Novel” is the perfect first chapter in a brand new metaphysical and magical realism alt-history series. The mixture of mystery, suspense, magic, school life, and shadowy organizations was amazing to see unfold on the pages of this book, and the shocking twist ending that leaves other character’s fates hanging in the balance will drive readers back into the series and eager to read book two. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
TC Marti has been an avid reader/writer for over three decades. He is the author of the Elementals Universe, a shared speculative fiction universe spanning multiple series. He is also a workout fanatic, and a fan of Arizona sports teams.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
Author Peter Davidson shares this self-help guide to readers in an effort to showcase how to best leave behind a legacy for the people in your life after you are gone in the book “Making Your Mark | Leaving a Legacy | And then… A Grand Exit That’ll Have Their Tongues Waggin’”.
The Synopsis
If you want your life to amount to more than just anonymously passing through this world unnoticed, this book is for you. It describes how you can make your mark on your family, friends, and society and how you can create a legacy that will benefit future generations.
When the time comes for you to leave this world, you can go out with class, style, and pizzazz, just like you lived your life, There are many options, possibilities, and decisions involved in planning a final farewell as we will see as we watch the Grand Exit of Timothy A.B. Smythe. Timothy’s Grand Exit will have people’s tongues waggin’ for a long time and it can serve as an inspiration for your final farewell when the time comes.
Much of the information in the book is presented in true stories, scenarios, and examples that are upbeat, often humorous, and fun to read.
The Review
This was a powerful and engaging read. The author did an amazing job of crafting this book in a way that felt both productive and enlightening all at once, while also capturing a tone and writing style that felt at ease and casual as if the book were just a normal conversation between two friends rather than a simple guide from the author to the reader. The themes of life and death were so strong in this book and did a great job of highlighting the message of legacy and what it means to make a mark on this world.
What stood out to meet was the author’s ability to bring a lightness to an otherwise upsetting subject like death. The attitude and confidence that the author has given readers to take the reins of death’s impending embrace and instead find a way of living life to the fullest were amazing to read. From leaving your name on a park or park bench and starting a charity in your name to writing a book or creating a product with your name embedded into the product’s title, the author lays out some great methods of leaving a mark on the world that makes people remember you long after you are gone. Yet it was the author’s ability to find positive ways of dealing with death, both in the time leading up to it and to the actual event itself, that gave a more inspirational tone to one’s demise than the heartbreak it so often brings.
The Verdict
A gripping, thoughtful, and engaging nonfiction, self-help style read, author Peter Davidson’s “Making Your Mark | Leaving a Legacy | And then… A Grand Exit That’ll Have Their Tongues Waggin’” is a must-read book of 2022. A beautiful way of bringing lightheartedness and warmth to an otherwise cold and painful experience, the author not only shows how to lean into death with dignity and power, but how to live life to the fullest and on your own terms, and makes the perfect companion to leaving a legacy that the world will never forget. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
Peter Davidson is the author or co-author of thirty books published by McGraw-Hill Book Company, Perigee/Putnam Publishers, Haworth Press, Sweet Memories Publishing, Northwestern Publishing, and others. His works include fiction, nonfiction, college textbooks, and children’s picture books. For more than two decades, Davidson was one of America’s most active writer’s seminar presenters, having presented 637 one-day seminars in a 15-state area from Minnesota to Tennessee and Colorado to Illinois.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
A group of women who gain supernatural abilities in the midst of a biological attack have to survive and face untold danger as they battle the impending apocalypse in author P.C. Cast’s “Into the Mist”, the first book in the series of the same name.
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The Synopsis
As men fall to the mist, the age of womankind begins to rise.
The world as we know it ends when an attack on the U.S. unleashes bombs that deliver fire and biological destruction. Along with sonic detonations and devastating earthquakes, the bombs have also brought the green mist. If breathed in, it is deadly to all men—but alters the body chemistry of many women, imbuing them with superhuman abilities.
A group of high school teachers heading home from a conference experiences firsthand the strength of these new powers. Mercury Rhodes is the Warrior, possessing heightened physical powers. Stella Carver is the Seer, with a sixth sense about the future. Imani Andrews is the Watcher, with a rare connection to the earth. Karen Gay is the Priestess, demonstrating a special connection with Spirits. And Gemma Jenkins is the Healer, a sixteen-year-old student who joins the group after losing her parents.
As they cross the Pacific Northwest, trying to find a safe place to ride out the apocalypse, the women soon learn they can’t trust anyone, and with fresh danger around every corner, it will take all their powers to save themselves—and possibly the world.
The Review
This was a gripping and thought-provoking post-apocalyptic read. The elements of sci-fi and fantasy that play into the narrative are perfectly utilized, for they don’t necessarily overpower the story at all but enhance it, and add more depth to the overall drama of the sequence of events that begins this cataclysmic event. The imagery and atmosphere (both figurative and literal) are well defined and give the reader a true sense of the world that has become their reality, delving into themes of survival, relationships, and the breakdown of society as a whole.
The character dynamics and growth was superb in this read. The author really did an amazing job on page 1 of defining the relationships and connectivity of these characters, especially the core cast of women who serve as the backbone of this story. The way the author is able to flip the script so to speak on the post-apocalyptic story by having a group of women takes on the roles of protectors and heroes in a world that has turned into a nightmare was an inspired choice, and making the women feel realistic and vulnerable in one breath while also exuding strength and determination in the next was great to read.
The Verdict
Heartfelt, engaging, and exhilarating, author P.C. Cast’s “Into the Mist” is a must-read suspense thriller that meets dystopian apocalyptic sci-fi read, and is one of my top suspense reads of 2022! The chilling nature of the attacks that lead into this main narrative and the heart-pounding thriller aspect of the narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seat as alliances and distrust form in the wake of civilization’s breakdown was so compelling to read. The shocking twists and turns will leave readers eager to read the author’s sequel when it inevitably arrives. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today, or preorder the book and receive it on July 12th, 2022!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
PC was born in the Midwest and grew up being shuttled back and forth between Illinois and Oklahoma, which is where she fell in love with Quarter Horses and mythology (at about the same time). After high school, she joined the United States Air Force and began public speaking and writing. After her tour in the USAF, she taught high school for 15 years before retiring to write full time. PC is a #1 New York Times and #1 USA Today Best-Selling author and a member of the Oklahoma Writers Hall of Fame. Her novels have been awarded the prestigious: Oklahoma Book Award, YALSA Quick Pick for Reluctant Readers, Romantic Times Reviewers’ Choice Award, the Prism, Holt Medallion, Daphne du Maurier, Booksellers’ Best, and the Laurel Wreath. PC is an experienced teacher and talented speaker. Ms. Cast lives in Oregon near her fabulous daughter, her adorable pack of dogs, her crazy Maine Coon, and a bunch of horses. House of Night Other World, book 4, FOUND, releases July 7th, 2020. More info to come soon about the HoN TV series!
