Tag: science fiction book review

Carved from Wood (Crafting Humanity Book 2) by Brendan O’Meara Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own. 

A group of warriors must set out to dangerous new lands in author Brendan O’Meara’s “Carved From Wood”, the second book in the Crafting Humanity series.

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The Synopsis

Join James and the team as they confront their invaders in the Southern Federation.

After witnessing the devastating power of the BlankZone James and his team head South. Their self-ascribed mission is to explore the most dangerous place on the planet – the new BlankZone border in the Southern Federation.

While conspiracies drive the narrative in the North, James and his team set out to learn about the Federation’s mysterious aggressors. Jump back into the adventure as James and his friends discover new families, build allies, and come face to face with the enemy threatening their existence. Secrets, lies, and manipulation are exposed as James gets closer than he ever imagined to their greatest threat.

Sequel to the Next Generation Indie Young New Adult book award Cut From Stone.

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The Review

This was such a gripping and powerful read. The author immediately transports readers into the action, showcasing the protagonist and his allies after going AWOL and heading out alone. The tension and world-building the author does and expands upon in this novel are remarkable to see come to life on the page, as they help elevate the character arcs and the action considerably.

However, it was the balance the author struck between the intense action and the themes explored throughout this novel. The author manages to touch upon the horrors of war uniquely, showcasing how those in power wage the war, and innocent people are often caught in the middle of that war, with rarely anyone to protect them when it shows up at their door. The way the author explores this new territory, the BlankZone, and its similarities and differences with the Federation brought a sense of familiarity and relatability to the narrative.

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The Verdict

Action-packed, heartfelt, and entertaining author Brendan O’Meara’s “Carved from Wood” is a must-read sci-fi novel. The shocking twists and turns in the story and the vast amount of world-building leave readers eager to dive further into the author’s world. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Raised in White Plains, New York, Brendan O’Meara formed a love of stories and books from a young age. He has spent his free time over the last decade crafting his debut novel, Cut From Stone, book one in the Crafting Humanity series.

It began in Philadelphia where he attended college daydreaming about a dystopian reality. With a vivid imagination (as described by his middle school teachers) and a passion for adventure, Brendan’s novels will transport you to a different life and capture you from cover to cover.

Brendan lives in Washington, DC with his daughter, wife, and two dogs. You will find him on the weekends drinking a beer watching the Packers and Notre Dame football games. He is an avid reader with a specific interest in sci-fi, anything dystopian, fantasy, history, and all levels of fiction.

Brendan would love to hear from you, feel free to contact him any time at brendan.omeara@craftinghumanity.com.

Finally, visit craftinghumanity.com and sign up for our email lists for news, updates, and information on the rest of the Crafting Humanity series. We will not spam you!

The Power of Water: Book One of The Doom of the Gods by James Grimm Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own. 

Two survivors of a Great War between Atlantis and Rama must lead their people and stay ahead of the rivals chasing after them in author James Grimm’s “The Power of Water”, the first book in the Doom of the Gods series.

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The Synopsis

The war raged for ten years…

Now, Atlantis wants to use WMDs…

But can civilization survive it?

During the last Ice Age, the clash of steel and the roar of aircraft echo through the land as the empires of Atlantis and Rama wage a desperate war.

There are many stories to tell the tale.

Risor sees the trap closing. But Jana, the mission commander, refuses to withdraw. She fears the consequences of failure. Threatening mutiny, he forces her to order the retreat. That Risor is right makes matters only worse, turning the rivalry personal.

Rogat is not sure what he did to offend the gods. Because the demi-god hero constantly chasing him doesn’t seem fair.

With Atlantis suffering, the empire falls apart.

Fleeing from a vengeful Jana, Risor must lead his people to freedom. Meanwhile, leading another band of survivors, Rogat tries to stay one step ahead of his nemesis. Read about Risor and Rogat in a gripping tale of war and survival that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Because revenge is such a satisfying reason to destroy a civilization.

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The Review

This is such a powerful blend of sci-fi, fantasy, and mythology. The author does an incredible job of world-building, delving into the civilizations of Atlantis and Rama and the cultures that brought these two civilizations to war. The author’s imagery and atmosphere allow the tension to build enormously, allowing the characters to explore their internal and external struggles naturally.

The character development and action drive this narrative home. The complex rivalry and animosity each protagonist endures from their pasts and how these characters tie into the world’s mythos show these ancient mythological cities and powerhouses balanced with the advancement of humanity and technology. The action driven by this decisive war and the wrath of the gods in the face of this war all speak to mankind’s unquenchable thirst for power and control and how often that led to the downfall of so many civilizations in the past. 

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The Verdict

Memorable, action-driven, and entertaining author James Grimm’s “The Power of Water” is a must-read sci-fi and fantasy narrative. The twists and turns the author gives readers as the plot develops and the open ending will have readers eager to devour more from this emerging series. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Instead of just daydreaming of my fantasy worlds and people, why not write about them. At least that is what I told myself when I started this journey in 2014.

Living in Japan, the land of Anime, the Samurai, the ultra modern and extremely old seems to fuel my worlds. Both the ancient and new meld together into worlds where superpowered school kids defeat evil, forest spirits help or fight humans or giant, futuristic robots battle to save the world. Where else to live for inspiration!

In the land of the rising sun, I create my worlds, that I hope entertain you.

https://www.author-jgrimm.com

Quantum Consequence (A Tale of Physics, Lust and Greed Book 5) by Mike Murphey Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviews1 Comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own. 

Two time-travelers must confront the truth of who they are in order to face a deadly threat in a parallel universe in author Mike Murphey’s “Quantum Consequence”, the fifth book in the A Tale of Physics, Lust and Greed series.

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The Synopsis

After foiling the political ambitions of a would-be American dictator, time-traveling lovers Marta Hamilton and Marshall Grissom return to their life in the Caribbean only to confront the murder of a friend and inherit responsibility for a gutsy 10-year old boy. Throughout their unlikely and tumultuous relationship, Marta has harbored suspicions that her time-traveling companion is not being honest with her. Is Marshall really the bumbling, good-hearted klutz she has come to love and trust? Or is he the cunning, cold-blooded assassin Gillis Kerg suspects him to be? In this fifth tale of physics, lust and greed, a bizarre parallel universe and a monstrous product of artificial intelligence will impose a costly consequence requiring both Marta and Marshall to face the truth of her most haunting question: “Who are you, Marshall Grissom?”

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The Review

This perfectly complex, driven narrative immediately thrusts readers into the action. The immense world-building that the author brings to life on the page gives readers a brilliant look at the scope of the universe this series inhabits, and the detail that goes into each setting gives the story an almost cinematic quality. The heavy use of sci-fi elements like time travel and parallel worlds adds depth and fantastic imagery to the narrative.

The balance of humor and heart defined the book itself. For a rich sci-fi narrative, the author did an incredible job of constantly infusing humor into the dialogue and situations the protagonists found themselves in, adding fresh air and levity to the dangers they found themselves in. Yet amongst the humor, the characters also exhibited heart, showcasing a depth of emotions and feelings between themselves and for themselves, as both Marshall and Marta grew and evolved to new levels in this story.

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The Verdict

Memorable, heartfelt, and entertaining author Mike Murphey’s “Quantum Consequence” is a fantastic humorous sci-fi narrative that readers will happily get lost in. The twists and turns in the story and the shocking and emotional final chapters will keep readers on the edge of their seats, eager for more from this incredible author. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

A native of eastern New Mexico, Mike Murphey spent nearly thirty years as an award-winning newspaper journalist in the Southwest and Pacific Northwest. Following his retirement from news journalism, he and his wife Nancy entered in a seventeen-year partnership with the late Dave Henderson, all-star centerfielder for the Oakland Athletics, Boston Red Sox and Seattle Mariners.

Our company, Dave Henderson Baseball, produced the Oakland A’s and Seattle Mariners Fantasy Camps for twenty years. The Murpheys have also partnered with the Roy Hobbs adult baseball organization in Fort Myers, Florida. Mike’s love of fiction, cats, baseball and sailing affords him to split his time between Spokane, Washington, and Phoenix, Arizona, where he enjoys life as a writer and old-man baseball player.

To receive a free Short Story – OLD MAN BASEBALL here …. https://www.mikemurpheybooks.com/freebies

or visit my website ….https://www.mikemurpheybooks.com/

Pegasus: A Journey to New Eden by James L. Hill Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.

Two people set on a course for a new world to escape the madness of Earth discover hidden secrets on the ship they call home in author James L. Hill’s “Pegasus: A Journey to New Eden”.

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The Synopsis

Zack and Zuri are set to embark on the Pegasus for New Eden, an unknown and unexplored planet four light years from Earth. For Zack, four light years isn’t nearly far enough from the madness that has been mankind’s history. For Zuri, it is a chance to have the family she has so long desired. Pegasus is humanity’s greatest invention, a modern day Noah’s Ark, set to spread civilization to the stars. But Pegasus has secrets which some will do anything to possess, and Zack and Zuri have yet to discover. A journey to New Eden is an emotional rollercoaster that will take the pair to the depths of despair, launch them beyond heavenly delights, and into the heart and soul of humanity.

Pegasus, the first starship, will take the best that the world has to offer and transplant it on another world. Readers are taken on an emotional rollercoaster as the only two people to escape the escalating madness must wrestle control of the ship from its Artificial Intelligence and restore faith in human dignity. In this work, readers see a future that is just around the corner. Beware, technology advances faster than our knowledge of what to do with it.

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The Review

What a truly epic and engaging sci-fi read. The world-building was incredible in this book, as the author not only layered the narrative with futuristic technology and the space spiders and their terrifying power, but the hero’s journey itself that these characters went on spoke to the scope of the universe that the narrative resided in.

The character development was impressive to see come to life on the page. Zack is a fantastic protagonist forced to work for a corporation in a world where corporations have more power than governments. Zuri, his beloved, is a strong female protagonist who is the perfect partner, and he compliments Zack on their adventures together. The imagery and atmosphere the author develops as the ship travels to New Eden and the shocking juxtaposition between the ship’s A.I. and the humanity Zack and Zuri represent make this an incredible story.

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The Verdict

Memorable, entertaining, and remarkable, author James L. Hill’s “Pegasus: A Journey to New Eden” is a must-read sci-fi thriller. The thought-provoking nature of the narrative and our relation to corporations and technology made the story vibrant and alive on the page, and the twists and turns in the book’s final pages will keep readers engaged and eager for more from the author. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

A native New Yorker, born and raised in the Bronx, James L Hill spent his adolescence years in Fort Apache, the South Bronx 41st precinct during the 60’s, during a time when you needed to have a gang to go to the store. Raised on blues, soul, and rock and roll gave him the heart of a flower child. Educated by the turmoil of Vietnam, Civil Rights, and the Sexual Revolution produced a gladiator. Realizing the precariousness of life gave him an adventurous outlook and willingness to try anything once, and if it did not kill him, maybe twice. 12 years of Catholic education and a couple of years in college spread between wild drug induce euphoric years, which did not kill him, gave James an unique moral compass that swings in any direction it wants. A scientific mind and a spirit that believes nothing is impossible if you want it bad enough guides his writings. He enjoys traveling to new places and seeing what life has to offer. James began writing short stories and poetry back in his early years. In his twenties moved on to novels. He worked in the financial industry and later got a degree in computer programming, his other love. James has a successful career as a software engineer designing, developing and maintaining systems for the government and the private sector. He has been programming for nearly forty years in various languages. After years in the computer world he returned to his first love, unleashing the characters in his head. Still a hopeless insomniac, he feels free to pound out plots. James L Hill is a prolific storyteller writing crime stories, fantasies, and science fiction, with a slant on the dark side of life. The next step on his journey naturally led to the business of publishing. He started RockHill Publishing LLC not only to produce his own work, but to give others access to the literary world. His computer background and experiences in word processing gives him insight into what it takes to publish good books.

https://www.jlhill-books.com/index.html

Bumper City by Alan McGill Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own. 

A lone detective must contend with his past while searching for a missing woman and facing a city of corruption and serial killers in author Alan McGill’s “Bumper City”.

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The Synopsis

In the future, Las Vegas is nearly destroyed. Rebuilt under a dark cloud that blocks all sunlight, Sin City takes on a whole new meaning.

Beneath the neon, The Pagliacci Serial Killers are on the loose and a new drug called “Colors”, infused with nanotechnology, is killing thousands. Violence erupts as the mutant population take to the streets to protest working conditions and the disappearance of their loved ones.

Big Tech, the wealthy elite, and corrupt politicians attempt to cover it up. They can’t allow anything to interfere with the elections, profits, or their plans.

Can hard-nosed detective Alton Cold and his A.I. car Bessimer catch the killers, stop the cabal, and expose the truth? Or will the appearance of a mysterious woman cloud his judgement as the unnatural cloud darkens the sky?

To save the people he cares about, he’ll put everything on the line to confront a darkness far worse than the night.

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The Review

This was an incredible book. The author did a great job crafting an engaging narrative that kept the reader invested. The writing style never wavered to the point where I was taken out of the story, and the hook and multi-genre setting will have readers picking up this novel repeatedly.

Detective Rollins was a great character to question loyalties of, as the mystery of who the main “villain” of this story had in their pocket was constantly changing. The killers were terrifying, and the story of Mara and Alton was both romantic and heartbreaking. Penny was a great partner to Alton in his agency, although I would have loved to see more of her story fleshed out and her bond with a certain lieutenant. A future book in this series could shift perspectives to include chapters surrounding Penny and her story. The mysterious ending surrounding Mara also left me wanting more, which I think will work in the author’s favor if they decide to pursue any future novels in this series.

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The Verdict

Author Alan McGills’s “Bumper City” is an electric, mysterious, and entertaining must-read sci-fi noir thriller. The action-soaked drama, twists and turns in the narrative, and rich character dynamics helped elevate the explosive finale and open ending, making readers eager for more of this thrilling world. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Alan McGill is an American author who lives in an old farmhouse with a clowder of cats. Alan was close to his grandparents, who grew up during the Great Depression. They were married young and remained together until his grandmother’s passing. His grandfather served in the Navy during WWII and was a gifted storyteller who wove humorous tales about tough events. Alan grew up listening to these stories of right and wrong and watching fictional heroes–such as the Lone Ranger, Adam West’s Batman and Captain America–stand up to bullies and protect those who count not protect themselves. This inspired him to always do what was right in his own life and shaped his love of storytelling. He is a multigenre author whose debut novel, A Cry in the Moon’s Light, combines horror, romance, and mystery. As with all his books, A Cry in the Moon’s Light centers on characters who strive to do the right thing regardless of the adversity they face. The book focuses on the theme of love–a pure and deep love that defeats all evil.

https://www.alanmcgillbooks.com

Weapons of the Mind (The Renegades Trilogy Book 1) by Paul Kivelson and Owen B. Greenwald Review/Preview

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviews1 Comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.

A woman must flee the order she spent her life serving when she is framed for a mission gone wrong in authors Paul Kivelson and Owen B. Greenwald’s “Weapons of the Mind”, the first book in the Renegades Trilogy.

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The Synopsis

Master your emotions. Perform your duty. Follow the Tenets. Tala has lived these rules for twenty years: the rules of an Enhancer. Then a mission goes wrong, and she finds herself framed, branded Renegade, and called to face judgment. Fleeing means violating the Tenets, the moral precepts of her order. Yet in that moment, she finds she cannot stay.

Hunted by the endless forces of the Galactic Coalition and her own mentor, famed Renegade killer Exemplar Scratch, Tala will pursue the proof of her innocence to the very heart of the galaxy. But cling as she might to the tatters of her honor, she cannot deny the true purpose of her mission: revenge. And the further Tala strays from the Tenets’ path, the greater the risk she runs of losing herself.

In a galaxy of strange aliens and hostile humans, danger casts its shadow on every wall. Friendships are forged, lost, and tested. And the lies that keep the galaxy running just might be about to come crashing down.

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The Review

Upon delving into this book, one is immediately struck by its unique atmosphere. The narrative is steeped in a chilling tension, allowing readers to experience the protagonist’s struggle in a way that is both captivating and unsettling. The familiar theme of overcoming adversity is masterfully woven into the story, adding depth and resonance to the narrative. 

The heart of this narrative was in the world-building and mythos of the universe the authors created. The detail that went into the worlds that made up this galaxy and the alien species that populated those worlds, as well as the corporations and government agencies that helped funnel the cast of characters into such a tense narrative, made this feel like the perfect read for those who enjoy Star Wars and Mass Effect. The mystery surrounding the reason for protagonist Tala’s frame and the emotional challenge to maintain her duty and sense of worthwhile searching for answers and staying alive all allowed the worlds around her to flourish and feel alive on the page.

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The Verdict

Thoughtfully crafted, mesmerizing, and entertaining, authors Paul Kivelson and Owen B. Greenwald’s “Weapons of the Mind” is a must-read epic sci-fi meets space opera. The drama, the tension, and the thrilling adventure readers are promised are elevated to new heights with outstanding character development and remarkable world-building that will keep readers eager for more from this fantastic writing duo. 

If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Authors

Paul Kivelson studied creative writing at Stanford with his undergraduate advisor Adam Johnson. His fiction has been published in the Adelaide Literary Magazine and the Schuylkill Valley Journal. Currently, he is pursuing a master’s degree in family therapy. His most recent work, Weapons of the Mind, is being released by Will Dreamly Arts and Publishing. But he is best known for his love of board games and his tendency to world-build more ideas than he’d ever possibly have time to write.

https://www.paulkivelson.com

Owen B Greenwald is the award-winning author of the Big Bet series and of Weapons Of The Mind, set for release in November 2023 from Will Dreamly Arts Publishing. He is also the lead designer for the board game Anna’s Roundtable. He lives in Santa Clara, CA with his wife Jenna and his dog Kubo. He is an ardent believer in the power of stories to enrich and transform lives.

Despite the incoming glut of AI-generated entertainment, Owen plans to keep writing. Join him at www.owenbgreenwald.com

The Princess from Earth (Warriors of Mirral Series Book Three) by Katrina Zari Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own. 

The vastness of the Multiverse is put to the test in author Katrina Zari’s “The Princess from Earth”, the next chapter in the Warriors of Mirral series! 

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The Synopsis

Worlds with Magic.
Worlds with Space travel.
Worlds where everything gets connected.
The Multiverse is unlimited, but the Worlds have their limits.

“The Princess from Earth” is the next chapter of the “Warriors of Mirral” series.

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The Review

What another fantastic entry into the epic sci-fi and fantasy series. The author found the perfect fusion of science fiction and fantasy, with advanced technology melding with magic wielders to craft a wholly original story that mirrors our world’s beliefs and studies. The idea and theory of the multiverse are ones I’ve personally been fascinated with for years, and the author’s navigation of this concept showcases both the creativity and insight that this plot device has given so many properties over the years.

The character development was incredible. The journey not only delves into protagonist Kira’s adventures to find her purpose and mission in life, as her father and the King of her people think her duty as princess comes first, but a secret mission turns into a shocking revelation on a haunting past for Kira as she is reunited with a surprise person from her childhood. The world-building and atmosphere the author created allow the dynamics between these characters and their relationships to shine.

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The Verdict

Remarkable, thoughtful, and entertaining author Katrina Zari’s “The Princess from Earth” is a must-read sci-fi and epic fantasy. The narrative’s twists and turns and the author’s ability to maintain a tether of connectivity despite the use of parallel worlds between these characters make this a compelling novel to get lost in. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Katrina Zari, an author born and raised in Russia, spent a significant time of her life immersed in its rich culture before transitioning on a life-changing journey to the United States two decades ago. Her decision to relocate was driven by love, as she followed the one and only person who held her heart. Throughout her upbringing, Katrina developed a strong passion for literature, particularly science fiction, fantasy, and related genres. The local public library became her second home, where she would lose herself for countless hours in the captivating stories written by Asimov and Bradbury, King and Tolkien, Verne and Stephenson, or any other Si-Fi book she could access.

Inspired by these literary giants, Katrina’s creative mind was crowded with stories of her own imagination. She always wrote stories in her head, inspired by those great books. She was adding her own characters and coming up with their new adventures. It was no surprise that her stories predominantly featured a courageous female protagonist, a reflection of her deep understanding of these inspiring heroines whom she gladly associated herself with.

Years later, she found the courage to transition those stories from her thoughts onto paper.

https://www.katrinazaribooks.com

Short Tales From Earth’s Final Chapter Book 3: Volume 1 Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own. 

Four authors take a unique deep dive into a beloved sci-fi collection in the book “Short Tales From Earth’s Final Chapter Book 3: Volume 1”.

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The Synopsis

Short Tales From Earth’s Final Chapter: Book 3: Volume 1 Digital Download (English)

The Shadow Agent By Amy Marsden Illustrated by Massimiliano Longo

 A debt to the Planetary Council can be a death sentence if left ignored, so Jensen has no time to waste and zero room for mistakes.

Last Ride By Bradley Heywood Illustrated by Leonardo Guinard

 You can’t teach an old horse new tricks, but can the Dirty Man Dyson learn to let go of the past?

Bunker 787: Blood & Fortune By Azalan Reign & Julian Fernandes Illustrated by Luis Bazzan

 The island infested with Howlers has more secrets to reveal as shipwrecked members of the Oceanic Alliance and pirates clash for control of the abandoned PC bunker and its hidden treasures.

Homestead Refugee By C.M. Alongi Illustrated by Anastasia Nesterova

Dalmar knows to never trust anyone from Homestead, so when someone from the community of cannibals moves to her town, she is forced to stay vigilant and keep her friends close.

EFC Connections:

Light Connectivity- Book 8: Homestead Hunts, Short Tales From Earth’s Final Chapter: Book 2, Book 13: Elutheramania: Freedom City

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The Review

What a fascinating, unique, and highly creative sci-fi adventure. Each story holds an extraordinary voice to the writing style, immersing the reader in the futuristic world. The mesh of different elements, from bounty hunters in the seedier parts of the world to mutants and cannibals in a lawless land and so much more, made these stories feel like a cross between Westward and Fallout. 

The dynamic characters and rich storylines each story held were thrilling to get lost in. A personal favorite was The Shadow Agent by Amy Marsden and the protagonist Jensen’s journey. The twists and turns the author threw at the protagonist, and the following revelations kept the reader on the edge of their seat as the world came to life around them. The rich imagery in each author’s story, both the illustrations and the writing style, allowed each tale to come to life on the page, immersing the reader in their vast world.

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The Verdict

Memorable, thought-provoking, and action-packed, “Short Tales From Earth’s Final Chapter Book 3: Volume 1” is a must-read sci-fi collection. The balance of emotional character development and action-driven narrative will keep readers invested until the final pages. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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Short Tales From Earth's Final Chapter: Book 3: Volume 1 Digital Download (English)

L. Ron Hubbard Presents Writers of the Future Volume 40 Anthology Review

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I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.

A brand new collection of short stories, artwork and more await sci-fi readers in L. Ron Hubbard Presents Writers of the Future Volume 41”. 

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The Synopsis

Spine-tingling

Breathtaking

Mind-blowing

Experience these powerful new voices—vivid, visceral, and visionary—as they explore uncharted worlds and reveal unlimited possibilities.

Open the Writers of the Future and be carried away by stories—and illustrations—that will make you think, make you laugh, and make you see the world in ways you never imagined.

Twelve captivating tales from the best new writers of the year as selected by Writers of the Future Contest judges accompanied by three more from L. Ron Hubbard, Nancy Kress, S.M. Stirling. Each is accompanied by a full-color illustration.

Plus Bonus Art and Writing Tips from Gregory Benford, Bob Eggleton, L. Ron Hubbard, Dean Wesley Smith

“When her owner goes missing, a digital housecat must become more than simulation to find her dearest companion through the virtual world.—“The Edge of Where My Light Is Cast” by Sky McKinnon, art by Carina Zhang

No one came to his brother’s funeral. Not even the spirits. Étienne knew it was his fault.—“Son, Spirit, Snake” by Jack Nash, art by Pedro N.

Man overboard is a nightmare scenario for any sailor, but Lieutenant Susan Guidry is also running out of air—and the nearest help is light years away.—“Nonzero” by Tom Vandermolen, art by Jennifer Mellen

Mac wanted to invent a cocktail to burn itself upon the pages of history—but this one had some unexpected side effects.—“The Last Drop” by L. Ron Hubbard and L. Sprague de Camp, art by Chris Arias

Dementia has landed Dan Kennedy in Graydon Manor, and what’s left of his life ahead seems dismal, but a pair of impossible visitors bring unexpected hope.—“The Imagalisk” by Galen Westlake, art by Arthur Haywood

When a teenage swamp witch fears her mama will be killed, she utilizes her wits and the magic of the bayou—no matter the cost to her own soul.—“Life and Death and Love in the Bayou” by Stephannie Tallent, art by Ashley Cassaday

Our exodus family awoke on the new world—a paradise inexplicably teeming with Earth life, the Promise fulfilled. But 154 of us are missing.…—“Five Days Until Sunset” by Lance Robinson, art by Steve Bentley

Spirits were supposed to lurk beneath the Lake of Death, hungry and patient and hostile to all life.—“Shaman Dreams” by S.M. Stirling, art by Dan dos Santos

A new app lets users see through the eyes of any human in history, but it’s not long before the secrets of the past catch up with the present.—“The Wall Isn’t a Circle” by Rosalyn Robilliard, art by Guelly Rivera

In the shadows of Teddy Roosevelt’s wendigo hunt, a Native American boy resolves to turn the tables on his captors, setting his sights on the ultimate prey—America’s Great Chief.—“Da-ko-ta” by Amir Agoora, art by Connor Chamberlain

When squids from outer space take over, a punk-rock P.I. must crawl out of her own miserable existence to find her client’s daughter—and maybe a way out.—“Squiddy” by John Eric Schleicher, art by Tyler Vail

Another outbreak? This time it’s a virus with an eighty percent infection rate that affects personality changes … permanently.—“Halo” by Nancy Kress, art by Lucas Durham

Planet K2-18b is almost dead, humanity is enslaved, and it’s Rickard’s fault. Now in his twilight years, he’d give an arm and a leg for redemption. Literally.—“Ashes to Ashes, Blood to Carbonfiber” by James Davies, art by May Zheng

What if magic could undo the unthinkable, and undo Death itself? Would you use it no matter the cost? What would you sacrifice for love?—“Summer of Thirty Years” by Lisa Silverthorne, art by Gigi Hooper

Joe is a prospector tasked with exploring the cosmos on behalf of an all-powerful government. Breadna is a toaster. There have been weirder love stories, but that’s unlikely.—“Butter Side Down” by Kal M, art by Selena Meraki

24 Award-winning Authors and Illustrators

16-page color gallery of artwork

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The Review

This was yet another fantastic collection of short stories and artwork. The promise these writers showcase and the attention to detail each of their stories possesses are remarkable to see come to life on the page. Each story feels like a fantastic yet contained world that readers can easily pick up, get lost in, and then return as they please. 

There are some fantastic stories in this upcoming anthology. Still, as someone interested in future technology and sci-fi as a whole, as well as the paranormal and spirituality, one story I loved seeing come to life is Shaman Dreams by S.M. Stirling, as the author found a way to bridge the gap between these two schools of thought. And it isn’t mentioned enough, but the artwork in this book is incredible, as seen in this short story, produced by artist Dan dos Santos.

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The Verdict

Breathtaking, imaginative, and Gripping, “L Ron Hubbard Presents: Writers of the Future Volume 40” is a must-read anthology that everyone should preorder today. The fantastic world-building and characters the anthology has become known for, as well as the gripping mythos that each tale encapsulates, make this a must-read book. If you haven’t yet, preorder your copy today!

Rating: 10/10