The Highly Anticipated Sequel to New Rock New RoleShortly after surviving—against overwhelming odds—their epic quest in New Rock New Role, battlemage Daxx and his crew (dual-wielding sword-dancer Qrysta, heavily-armed Orc Grell and sneakthief Oller, with his mutt companion Little Guy) are off on their next adventure. A mysterious ghost ship arrives, carrying a cryptic message for them. Setting sail full of good intentions, they are soon embroiled in the eternal struggle between the forces of good and the forces of evil. If they are to find a way out of an impossible situation, each must complete a separate mission in a realm where nowhere is safe for them.New Rock New Realm is a captivating tale that will enthrall lovers of epic fantasy. Told with his customary wit, Richard Sparks' skillful storytelling weaves a tapestry of adventure, mystery, suspense and emotional depth—with plenty of comic moments spicing up events as they progress.Memorable characters, imaginative settings and challenging quests all combine to make the New Rock series an unforgettable addition to the genre.
Andromeda McKee rebuilt her life in the violent embrace of the Legion of the Damned in the days when cyborgs were first introduced. Now, she must choose between her conscience and her desire for vengeance....Lady Catherine “Cat” Carletto would never have left her pampered life behind in a different world. But when Princess Ophelia became Empress Ophelia in a coup that claimed the lives of the princess’s brother and all who supported him, including the Carletto family, Cat had to hide - or die.She became Legionnaire Andromeda McKee, and now she’s a battle-scarred veteran who knows how to kill. Summoned to Earth to receive the Imperial Order of Merit from the empress, Andromeda learns that she isn’t the sole surviving Carletto—her uncle Rex is still alive and the leader of a resistance group determined to overthrow Ophelia.Caught up in a web of intrigue, Andromeda realizes that the moment is coming when her revenge will be at hand. But will she be able to act, or will she be betrayed by those she has come to trust?***The Legion of the Damned: one of the most popular military SF series ever published.ACCLAIM FOR THE SERIES“Dietz expertly jumps from one theater of combat to another.”—Publishers Weekly“When it comes to military science fiction, William Dietz can run with the best.”—Steve Perry, author of The Ramal Extraction“A superb, action-packed thriller...[a] terrific tale.”—Midwest Book Review“A tough, moving novel of future warfare.”—David Drake, author of the Hammer’s Slammers series“Dietz’s expertise in matters of mayhem is second to none.”—The Oregonian“Andromeda’s Fall is one of the most interesting futuristic novels.”—SF Site
Lords of Creation, the eagerly anticipated finale in S.M. Stirling's acclaimed Lords of Creation series, promises to be a masterful conclusion to a saga that has captivated readers worldwide. Following the remarkable adventures in "The Sky People" and "In the Courts of the Crimson Kings," this third installment is set to weave the intricate tales of alternate Venus and Mars into a climactic narrative.In this series conclusion, the richly imagined worlds of a habitable Venus and Mars, each with their own unique civilizations and ecosystems, come alive again. Stirling, known for his meticulous world-building and deep character development, is set to intertwine the fates of characters from both planets, exploring the culmination of their struggles and triumphs.As is common of all of this award winning author's works, readers can expect an extremely well narrated version of science fiction adventure, political intrigue, and speculative history, all while providing a satisfying resolution to the overarching narrative.Lords of Creation promises to be the epic conclusion of the journey through Stirling's imaginative and richly detailed versions of Venus and Mars. It is a must-read for fans of the series and science fiction in general.
In Andromeda’s War, Dietz’s heroine will face her ultimate test—as a battle-scarred legionnaire and an innocent young woman who once lost everything... Now a platoon leader, Legionnaire Andromeda McKee seems to have successfully left behind her true identity of Lady Catherine “Cat” Carletto, one of the last two surviving members of the Carletto family targeted for death by Empress Ophelia.After failing at her one shot at vengeance, Andromeda had questioned her resolve. But now her uncle has been killed in a government raid back on Earth, leaving her as the last Carletto standing—and the family’s only chance for justice... An opportunity comes when the empress’ ship crashes on a hostile planet, and Andromeda is assigned to head up the rescue mission.As a legionnaire, Andromeda McKee has countless kills under her belt. But when faced with her greatest enemy, Cat Carletto has to pull the trigger on the one who really matters...***The Legion of the Damned: one of the most popular military SF series ever published.ACCLAIM FOR THE SERIES“Dietz expertly jumps from one theater of combat to another.”—Publishers Weekly“When it comes to military science fiction, William Dietz can run with the best.”—Steve Perry, author of The Ramal Extraction“A superb, action-packed thriller...[a] terrific tale.”—Midwest Book Review“A tough, moving novel of future warfare.”—David Drake, author of the Hammer’s Slammers series“Dietz’s expertise in matters of mayhem is second to none.”—The Oregonian“Andromeda’s Fall is one of the most interesting futuristic novels.”—SF Site
In S. M. Stirling's The Sky People an alternate reality unfolds where Earth's solar system harbors a shocking secret. Discovered only in the twentieth century, this revelation about Mars and Venus challenges our understanding of the universe and sparks a race among Earth's great powers to explore and influence these newly intriguing sister planets.As the 21st century dawns, the struggle for knowledge and power on these celestial bodies forms the backdrop for a captivating tale. Set against a canvas of interplanetary intrigue, the story follows an archaeologist's ambitious quest to uncover the mysteries of a world vastly different from our own. Joined by a skilled Martian guide, their expedition delves into ancient secrets and the complexities of extraterrestrial societies.This novel is a masterful blend of alternate history and science fiction. It's an ideal read for those fascinated by the idea of a different cosmic history, offering a journey filled with discovery, adventure, and the timeless allure of the unknown.
Following my nose is a Hugo and Nebulaauthor and critic Alexei Panshin’s very personal journey into literary analysisand his own reflections. Panshin discusses his own journey as wellas works that influenced his own writing and on science fiction in general.Authors like A.E. van Vogt, Charles Dodgson (Lewis Caroll) and others haveshaped both the genre as well as Panshin’s own art. This work also discusses a broader critiqueof the genre and its impact on literature and culture, drawing heavily from hisoutstanding, Hugo-winning book, The World Beyond the Hill. Beautifully written as only Alexei Panshincan, the book perfectly melds his own personal journey, a unique perspective onscience fiction and the power of the genre to influence our culture.
"Mind-expanding" —Kirkus, starred reviewWhen lies become truths andtwo kingdoms head to a bloody war,a man is exiled for his conscienceRefusing the queen’s order to gas a crowd of protesters, Minister Shea Ashcroft is banished to the border to oversee the construction of the biggest defensive tower in history. However, the use of advanced technology taken from refugees makes the tower volatile and dangerous, becoming a threat to local interests. Shea has no choice but to fight the local hierarchy to ensure the construction succeeds—and to reclaim his own life.Surviving an assassination attempt, Shea confronts his inner demons, encounters an ancient legend, and discovers a portal to a dead world—all while struggling to stay true to his own principles and maintain his sanity. Fighting memories and hallucinations, he starts to question everything...Sleeping Worlds Have No Memory is a thought-provoking meditation on the fragility of the human condition, our beliefs, the manipulation of propaganda for political gains, and our ability to distinguish the real from the unreal and our willingness to accept convenient “truths.” The novel is a compelling exploration of memory, its fragile nature, and its profound impact on our perception of identity, relationships, and facts themselves."Eloquent, moody, poetic. . . masterful."—Beth Cato (author of A Thousand Recipes for Revenge)A note from the author: “A major theme of the book is how disinformation and propaganda can be used to justify violence, and how ignoring evil can lead people to accept atrocities. I was able to witness all this first-hand, having spent the first 21 years of my life in Russia and absorbing the recent events unfiltered and in my native tongue. Sleeping worlds are not only devoid of memories; they are also oblivious to the pain of others.”A unique blend of science fiction, fantasy and noir, with zeitgeist and prophetic qualities (the original novella anticipated the Russo-Ukrainian War), this is a must for fans of China Miéville’s Bas-Lag series, Ted Chiang’s Tower of Babylon, and Robert Silverberg’s Tower of Glass."An imaginative, heady clash of fantasy and science-fiction that delivers powerful messages"—FantasyBookCritic"Triumphs in its emotional and unsettling storytelling" —The Fantasy Hive
This is the third volume in this highly praised series (the first won the World Fantasy Award). Previous works have been praised for their eclectic mix of stories, offering a panorama of themes and styles. For instance, the 2021 edition included a story about a woman struggling with her identity and relationship in the face of a thought-recording device, a tale of a man fostering a rapidly evolving robot, and an adventurous narrative about a sentient robot dog engaging in space piracy. These stories not only explored advanced technologies and speculative scenarios but also delved deep into human emotions, relationships, and societal issues.Themes of personal struggles, such as dealing with depression, anxiety, and feelings of alienation, were also prominent. These were manifested through unique and powerful metaphors, like a woman whose detachable body parts symbolized her sense of disintegration and invisibility, or a story that portrayed the torment of self-contempt through the constant barrage of negative thoughts from imaginary entities.The anthology also ventured into mythic dimensions, echoing the voices and histories of entire cultures through concise yet profound storytelling. For example, flash fiction pieces in the collection reached the heights of epic poetry, encapsulating the journey of human life and cultural evolution.With such a backdrop, the 2023 volume continues this tradition of blending speculative elements with profound human experiences and cultural narratives. It's likely to feature stories that push the boundaries of imagination while staying grounded in the complexities of the human condition. Readers can anticipate a collection that entertains, provokes thought, and offers new perspectives on the future and the present. The anthology is not just a showcase of speculative fiction; it's a celebration of African storytelling, creativity, and the endless possibilities within the realm of speculative fiction.
Lost Origins (Book One of the Majestic Chronicles) is an enthralling space odyssey set in a distant future where Earth is a lost legend. In this riveting tale, Maddy, a skilled smuggler, embarks on a perilous mission carrying vital medicine and a cryptic data crystal. Her journey plunges her into a universe brimming with danger, from space pirates to complex political intrigue.Maddy's character is a blend of strength and vulnerability, making her a compelling protagonist. Her journey is not just about the physical travel through space, but also an exploration of her own morals and choices. This adds depth to the narrative, offering readers more than just an action-packed adventure.The novel deftly balances high-stakes action with thought-provoking themes. As Maddy maneuvers through perilous situations, she is confronted with questions of right and wrong in a morally grey universe. This element of ethical dilemma enriches the plot, making it a gripping read.Lost Origins is a must-read for fans of space opera and character-driven stories. The novel's rich world-building, combined with Maddy's compelling character arc, makes it an unforgettable journey across the stars, filled with suspense, action, and deep human insights.
Journeys Beyond the Fantastical Horizon offers a fresh exploration of the magical and the otherworldly. From sentient spaceships to anxiety goblins, this anthology explores the breadth and depth of speculative fiction originally published in Galaxy’s Edge magazine, including Aurora, British Fantasy, BSFA, Hugo, Nebula and Nommo nominated and winning stories. No two pieces are alike, yet all these tales best represent the diversity and range of the genre, challenging readers to question societal norms and reality, igniting the imagination. Let each story transport you to unseen worlds, to places and times that exist beyond the boundaries of the familiar, beyond the fantastical horizon. Your journey awaits.
This is the much-anticipated sequel to the critically acclaimed Hot Moon (“A nail-biting thriller”—Publishers Weekly) by two-time Sidewise Award-winning author Alan Smale.Vivan Carter, the electrifying hero from Hot Moon, returns to lead a lunar geological survey team comprised of both Americans and Soviets.Their journey takes them across the harsh and barren lunar surface as they chart the moon and collect samples for this grueling mission. It is dangerous enough, but the stakes become much higher when an ambush threatens the entire mission.The crew must navigate a treacherous path where survival requires ingenuity, courage, and an uneasy alliance with their Soviet counterparts. As the stakes grow higher, the mission becomes a test of skill, endurance, and trust in an era defined by suspicion and rivalry.Dive into an electrifying alternate history where space rivalry takes center stage. Radiant Sky is a thrilling continuation of the highly acclaimed hard science fiction novel that will captivate fans of NASA fiction books, near-future adventures, and hard science fiction series. Set in a meticulously crafted world where the Cold War extends far beyond Earth's atmosphere, humanity's reach into space creates a new frontier of tension and exploration.With breathtaking accuracy from a retired NASA director and an immersive look at the untold stories of space rivalry, Radiant Sky brings hard science fiction alive, capturing the imagination and the thrill of space exploration. Prepare for a pulse-pounding experience that redefines what it means to venture into the unknown.ACCLAIM FOR THE SERIES“Smale’s latest will delight and enthrall.”—Library Journal *starred review*“A nail-biting thriller set in a plausible alternate 1979.”—Publishers Weekly“Hot Moon is a provocative science fiction novel set in an alternative but plausible reality. It follows a war in space with original, imaginative flourishes.”—Foreword“I loved it. Great ‘hard’ science fiction with convincing space battles.”—Larry Niven“Alan Smale is one of the brightest stars in the hard-SF firmament, and Hot Moon is his best novel yet. ”—Robert J. Sawyer, Hugo and Nebula Award-winning author“Intriguing, adrenaline-fueled, and engaging, author Alan Smale’s Hot Moon is the perfect sci-fi meets political thriller.”—Anthony Avina’s Blog“A frightening glimpse into what the future may hold. This unforgettable journey takes readers to the very edge of reality, and possibly, our future.”—Mostly Mysteries’ and Other Books Too
"Experience a truly extraordinary journey aboard a colossal generation ship, where Earth s brightest minds have forged a strict regime to ensure survival of the human race. The unintentionally-oppressive rules form uniquely distinct societies as the years pass, until differences in ideology, class, and cultural identity stirs up rebellion among the beleaguered crew, igniting the first whispers of revolution."--
What happens when emotions like love and friendship span vast distances — in space, in time, and in the heart?Science fiction often focuses on future technology and science without considering the ways social structures will change as tech changes — or not. The rapid change in technology and how it permeates nearly everything is changing every facet of how we live, including how we interact with others What willrelationships look like in the complicated future of clones, uploaded intelligences, artificial brains, or body augmentation? What stories emerge when we acknowledge possibilities of new genders and ways of thinking aboutthem? The Reinvented Heart presents stories that complicate sex and gender by showing how shifting technology may affect social attitudes and practices, stories that include relationships withcommunities and social groups, stories that reinvent traditional romance tropes and recast them for the 21st century, and above all, stories that experiment, astonish, and entertain.
Widely regarded as a true classic in science fiction, Nostrilia remains extremely popular and influential. Neil Gaiman and Gene Wolfe have both cited the influence of the book on their fiction.Nostrilia is often cited as an important precursor to the cyberpunk movement of the 1980s, which was characterized by its gritty, urban settings and its focus on the intersection of technology and humanity. Additionally, Smith's unique style has been noted as an influence on a number of other science fiction authors.The story takes place on an alien planet called Norstrilia, which is home to a unique breed of sheep that produces an incredibly valuable substance known as stroon. Rod McBan, the richest person on Norstrilia wants to circumvent the strict export laws governing the trade of stoon and gets involved in a complicated web of politics and bureaucracy in order to achieve his goal.His ambition takes him to various places, and subjects him to various adventures and he meets a woman named C'mell, who is a member of an alien race that can shape-shift into human form. C'mell becomes a close ally of Rod's and helps him to navigate the complex politics of the ruling Instrumentality.Overall, Nostralia is a complex and engaging story that explores many themes, including the nature of power and wealth, the importance of personal relationships, and the dangers of unchecked bureaucracy and politics. Through the character of Rod McBan, Cordwainer Smith offers anuanced and thought-provoking commentary on the human condition and the potential for both good and evil in all of us, which is as relevant today as it was when he first wrote the book.
As though landing people safely on Mars weren't daunting enough ...The Space Race of the Sixties, at the height of the Cold War, had been nail-biting—until the Soviet Union forfeited.In the thirties—amid a second Cold War—China is not about to lose the race to Mars. Nor is the United States. Nor, quite the wildcard, is asecretive cabal drawn from among the world's multi-billionaires. All of them are scrambling to launch deep-space missions on a schedule that makes the Sixtiescontest appear lackadaisical.This competition could only continue on the Red Planet.More treacherous still? The rivalries, resentments, and distrust that simmer just beneath the surface within each expedition.More difficult yet? Survival on that arid, radiation-drenched, all-but-airless, planet.These challenges have somehow fallen into the lap of NASA engineer—and reluctant astronaut—Xander Hopkins.But the thorniest problem of all? The existential quandary for which neither training nor experience has prepared Xander? Making sense of the seemingly unstoppable plague that has already killed many on Mars, and seems poised to devastate all life on another planet.Earth.
The perfect blend of the gaming world and epic fantasy.With millions watching on live stream, Daxx and his teammates Qrysta and Grell win the role-playing Games (RPG) Grand Championship. But winning the game was was a piece of cake compared with what comes next.Daxx wakes up to find he's turned into his own avatar and is in the middle of a wilderness he doesn't recognize. Armed with a crappy sword he has no idea how to use and dressed in beginner-level gear he must figure out how to survive quickly because he can already hear the blood-thirsty howls of wild animals from the jungle that surrounds him.Thus starts a fantastic epic fantasy adventure. Once the three friends finally find each other they need to puzzle out their new world, gain skills, combat enemies, and make alliances with all kinds of characters and creatures from the different territories of this new world in order to survive. The heart stopping action is interspersed with humor making it a idiculously fun and addictive read. Ready Player One meets Lord of the Rings in Disc World.
A captivating collection of original stories and essays by award-winning authors that celebrates the richness and complexity of African mysticism.African literary scholars struggle to reconcile African mysticism with literary labels. Between Dystopias: The Road to Afropantheology encapsulates the essence of African mysticism and dystopia through original stories.Afropantheology explores various aspects of African mysticism and dystopia. ‘Mother's Love, Father's Place’ and ‘02 Arena’ are examples. It acknowledges Africa's journey from its origins to the future. ‘The Deification of Igodo’ and ‘A Dance with the Ancestors’ are stories that showcase the complexity of African mysticism. ‘Land of the Awaiting Birth’ explores the link between theborn and the unborn. .Between Dystopias: The Road to Afropantheology is a celebration of African mysticism. The collection highlights the richness and complexity of African culture and traditions. It is a must-read for anyone interested in African literature, culture, and history.
Amidst political turmoil on Earth, a rescue mission to ailing colonists on Mars becomes a battle for power and survival in the harsh realities of space.As humanity explores space, political strife rips apart nations and increases social divides. US President Horton Willoughby III governs only Eastern America and is seen as a political farce. Industrialist Richfield Chan sees opportunity in the fractured government and plans to seize power.Chan rallies allies to send a seventh colony ship to Mars, hoping to undermine the current president. The Ngu family, responsible for terraforming and mining on Pallas, realize that any rescue mission from Earth will arrive too late. Four siblings launch a rescue mission from Pallas to save the ailing colonists with their expertise and better chosen implements.The Ngu siblings know their mission is one-way and must teach the colonists to survive on the inhospitable planet or find a way to endure until another rescue ship arrives. The “little people” refuse to be subject to incompetent governments any longer and must make their own stand.
"In the highly anticipated follow-up to the acclaimed 2021 anthology descibed as containing "some of the most exciting voices, old and new, from Africa and the diaspora, published in the 2020 year," readers will be blown away by the caliber of stories and poems collected in this exciting new volume. The Year's Best African Speculative Fiction 2021 won the World Fantasy Award for best anthology and was met with widespread critical acclaim from all around the globe, with the science fiction trade magazine, Locus, calling it a "must read." Multiple award-winning editor Oghenechovwe Donald Ekpeki, who created the first anthology, now joins forces with Eugen Bacon, a 2023 British Fantasy Award winner, and Milton Davis, an award-winning black speculative fiction writer and editor, to introduce readers to an ever more diverse list of authors associated with Africa. Timely and relevant to today's world, the fiction selected for this book will astonish, shock and amaze readers, while introducing them to rich cultures and vibrant characters that push the envelope." -- back cover
"Standouts include...Mike Resnick and Lezli Robyn's beautifully sad "Benchwarmer," which takes us into the world of imaginary friends, and introduces us to one friend who simply can't let go of the boy who created him."-io9"A satisfying sampler of solid stories from a team that rarely disappoints." -Publishers WeeklyMultiple award-winning authors, Mike Resnick and Lezli Robyn, get to the heart of the matter in Soulmates, which showcases all the words they have penned together over their years as collaborators (with a bonus solo piece by each). Whether a robot, alien, some kind of supernatural being or human, rising above our prejudices and ignorance allows us to make emotional connections that can have a profound effect on our lives.
For the four Hollister brothers, Sea Glass Bay means home, family, and, most recently, heartbreak.Taken in as foster kids by Clay and Leda Hollister, their rocky starts in life were turned around thanks to stability and unconditional love. Despite their successes as adults, Leda's death two years ago shook the brothers to their core, but not nearly as hard as Clay's recent announcement he's getting married again--to his late wife's best friend! It's not something the brothers want to hear, nor easily accept, but family is family no matter what.It's time for the Hollister brothers to unite in Sea Glass Bay and heal those family wounds once and for all. What none of brothers expect is to find love themselves along the picturesque beaches known for their ocean-tumbled glass pebbles.
"I loved it. Great 'hard' science fiction with convincing space battles. "−Larry Niven, Grand Master (Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers Association) and author of RingworldTwo-time Sidewise Award-winning author, Alan Smale, brings us an exciting alternate 1979 where the US and the Soviets have permanent Moon bases, orbiting space stations, and crewed spy satellites supported by frequent rocket launches.Apollo32, commanded by career astronaut Vivian Carter, docks at NASA's Columbia space station en route to its main mission: exploring the volcanic Marius Hills region of the Moon. Vivian is caught in the crossfire as four Soviet Soyuzcraft appear without warning to assault the orbiting station. In an unplanned and desperate move, Vivian spacewalks through hard vacuum back to her Lunar Module and crew and escapes right before the station falls into Soviet hands.Their original mission scrubbed, Vivian and her crew are redirected to land at Hadley Base, a NASA scientific outpost with a crew of eighteen. But soon Hadley, too, will come under Soviet attack, forcing its unarmed astronauts to daring acts of ingenuity and improvisation.With multiple viewpoints, shifting from American to Soviet perspective, from occupied space station to American Moon base under siege, to a covert and blistering US Air Force military response, Hot Moon tells the gripping story of a war in space that very nearly might have been.
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