Brand New Science Fiction

L. Ron Hubbard Presents Writers of the Future Volume 36

• Writer Winners: Zack Be, F.J. Bergmann, Tim Boiteau, Andy Dibble, David Elsensohn, Michael Gardner, J.L. George, Storm Humbert, Katherine Livingston, Leah Ning, C. Winspear, and Sonny Zae

• Illustrator Winners: Brock Aguirre, Aidin Andrews, Daniel Bitton, Arthur Bowling, Irmak Çavun, Kaitlyn Goldberg, Benjamin Hill, John Dale Javier, Heather Laurence, Anh Le, Mason Matak, and Phoebe Rothfeld

• Bonus short stories by: L. Ron Hubbard, Katherine Kurtz, Jody Lynn Nye, and Nnedi Okorafor

• Art and writing tips by: Echo Chernik, L. Ron Hubbard, Mike Perkins, and Sean Williams

• Edited by: David Farland

Brand new science fiction and fantasy selected by masters of today. This year’s winning stories include a diverse collection of brilliantly realized worlds of dystopian politics, magical realism, post-apocalyptic adventure and romance, dark fantasy, and more. You’ll love this anthology because these writers push the boundaries—and break beyond them and these illustrators envision the impossible—and render it real.

Special Offer: Receive a free eBook of “Advice for New Writers” with rare insight from New York Times bestselling authors. Contact jwills@galaxypress.com with proof of purchase to receive  free eBook.

“This hefty, competent anthology showcases 12 consistently solid short stories, each accompanied by a full-color illustration.” —Publishers Weekly

28 Minutes into the Future

Chrome Oxide

In a time when we need to laugh more than ever, here are nine hilarious (and irreverent) short stories that blow political correctness to smithereens.

“2018 Recommended Reading List” —Tangent Online

A.I. Void Ship (A.I. Series Book 6)

Vaughn Heppner

Humanity’s war for survival against the galactic machines is coming to a grim end—our extinction has been given top priority by the main A.I. brain-core. While desperate tactics have kept us alive so far, we’d better find some strong allies fast or we’ll be another extinct species.

“Expertly crafted. Its wit and brutality conveys the reality of a stellar humanity in the near future.” —Amazon Reviewer

All the Plagues of Hell

Eric Flint and Dave Freer

In a complex web of enemies, the usurper of Milan, also known to friend and foe as the Wolf of the North, must use the cunning and skill of his physician to neutralize the Venetian hostilities. But will it be enough to save him as Orkise, the snake-god of plague, uncoils its venomous magic in a plague of hell across northern Italy?

Angels Don’t Have Dark Hair

Brennan Harvey

In this original short story, the ghost of Phil’s ex-girlfriend makes him an offer that will make his life better. Will he take her advice … or remain a slacker forever?

Apex Magazine (Issue 114)

Gary Kloster, Gary A. Braunbeck, Storm Humbert, Sabrina Vourvoulias, Paul Jessup, Andrea Johnson, Russell Dickerson, and Jason Sizemore (editor)

Apex Magazine features original mind-bending short stories of science fiction, fantasy and horror, including the emotionally stirring dark fantasy “Godzilla vs. Buster Keaton, Or: I Didn’t Even Need a Map,” “Master Brahms” tackling the concept of identity with a new twist, the fast-paced heroic story of a word witch using her powers for good in “Toward a New Lexicon of Augury,” and the short story “Riding the Signal.” There are also author interviews and an insightful non-fiction article.

Arabella the Traitor of Mars (Adventures of Arabella Ashby Book 3)

David D. Levine

The Crown, the Galaxy’s last superpower, has turned its sights on Mars. Arabella is torn between the loyalties of her new husband and love, who fights for the Crown, and that of the Martians. And while the resistance of Mars is hopeless, she has many friends there—will she abandon them or fight along with them?

“Sci-fi steampunk at its best. Strong storyline and characters.” —Amazon Reviewer

Asimov’s Science Fiction (September/October 2018)

Doug C. Souza, Greg Egan, Stephanie Feldman, Carrie Vaughn, Suzanne Palmer, Erin Roberts, Robert Reed, Sheila Finch, Jean Marie Ward, David Erik Nelson, Leah Cypess, and Rick Wilber

Filled with chills and thrills. You’ll rendezvous with alarming creatures, discover what it’s like to be under the control of a rigid democracy with alien influences, walk through an endless graveyard, discover the power of nano-bots and their symbiotic interactions with humanity on Jupiter’s moon, and many many more cutting edge short stories.

“Interesting perspective—entertaining, and the end was well disguised.” —Tangent Online

The Assassination of Billy Jeeling

Brian Herbert

Billy Jeeling, after life-long service of cleaning up and repairing the atmosphere with the creation of the Skyship and its secret technologies, is under attack by the AmEarth Empire. They consider his old age a threat and have asked him to step down and turn over his technology. When he won’t, they launch a full-scale propaganda machine, resulting in massive demonstrations against him; and one officer who will stop at nothing to bring him down. However, Jeeling has even bigger secrets (and personal demons) that threaten himself and every living creature­—and he is the only one that can save them.

“A good read.” —Amazon Reviewer

Bards and Sages Quarterly (Volume 10, Issue 3)

Sean Patrick Hazlett, Dawn Vogel, Eugen Bacon, Gustavo Bondoni, Kyla Chapek, Aaron DaMommio, Sarah Milne Das, Steve DuBois, David Fisher, and Julie Ann Dawson

Bards and Sages Quarterly is a celebration of science fiction, fantasy, and other speculative fiction short stories. It showcases amazing voices that otherwise might be missed. Discover both new and established writers is this collection of original work. This issue is a winner of their Reader’s Choice Awards.

Beneath Ceaseless Skies, Issue 291

Andrew Dykstal and R.Z. Held

The Forge. The king is dead. For Hodge, newly unemployed bodyguard, the problems are just beginning. He has an assassin who won’t stay executed, allies who happen to be his best murder suspects, and impossibilities instead of answers. To survive the turmoil of succession, he’ll have to face threats that blur the lines between life and death, friends and enemies, and the bounds of reality itself.

Binti: The Night Masquerade

Nnedi Okorafor

Believing that the violence of the Meduse has been left behind, Binti has returned to her home planet. While her people are peaceful on the whole, the Khoush continue to fan the flames of their ancient rivalry with the Meduse. Before Binti can get to her village, the anger and resentment have already claimed the lives of many close to her. It is up to Binti, and her intriguing new friend Mwinyi, to try to prevent a war that could wipe out her people once and for all, in this epic conclusion of the sci-fi trilogy that began with the Hugo and Nebula Award-winning Binti.

“Nnedi Okorafor writes glorious futures and fabulous fantasies. Her worlds open your mind to new things, always rooted in the red clay of reality. Prepare to fall in love with Binti.” ―Neil Gaiman, New York Times bestselling author of American Gods

Blink: An Illustrated Spy Thriller Novel

Brian C. Hailes

Ex-black ops soldier, Blink, must find and expose the true colors of the men behind the secret war waged by The Establishment, which has been manipulating governments since the time of Napoleon. Operating behind the facade of the International Central Bank, they are pushing a mind-control program, known as the Mosquito Project, and getting legislation that will collapse the global economy. She is outmatched and outnumbered in a conflict that could force her and those she loves to pay the ultimate price.

“Verifiable facts threaded into an intricate web of imagination pulled me into her world and never let go.” —Amazon Reviewer

Blue Collar Space

Martin L. Shoemaker

Award-winning author of “Today I am Paul,” Martin L. Shoemaker, presents stories of everyday people, doing extraordinary things in interstellar situations. These are the people planning, constructing, exploring—living and dying—across the galaxy. The future doesn’t just happen … somebody has to build it.

“My only real complaint is that I want more stories.” —Amazon Reviewer

Broadswords and Blasters (Issue 6): Pulp Magazine with Modern Sensibilities

David VonAllmen, Matthew X. Gomez, Robert Walton, Rie Sheridan Rose, Adam S. Furman, Marcus Hansson, Catherine J. Cole, J.D. Graves, Jared Mason, and Cameron Mount (editor)

Action-packed science fiction and fantasy stories that include the hero Bogerd and his troupe of warriors, a mechanical marauder that holds up stage-coaches, giant robot protectors and the team that protects them, grim outsiders of the desolation, and the crew of Dalton Delivery 5 facing more than they could have ever imagined.

“Great heart-pounding stories with interesting, unusual characters—what a ride!” —Amazon Reviewer

Broken Stars: Contemporary Chinese Science Fiction in Translation

Ken Liu

Edited by award-winning author Ken Liu, Broken Stars is a collection of Chinese science fiction and fantasy short stories that evoke the full emotional spectrum. They demonstrate the diversity and vibrancy of the genre, spanning from hard SF to cyberpunk, science fantasy to space opera, and showcasing stories with deeper Chinese culture.

“This anthology is a must-read.” ―Booklist (starred review)

Choosing Names (Man-Kzin Wars Series Book 8)

Larry Niven

The Kzinti learned the hard way that the reason humanity was no longer studying war, was because they were so good at it. Larry Niven’s Known Space is at war, the Man-Kzin Wars, and the Kzinti are getting another dose of why they should be respectful to the hairless Earthlings.

“Good addition to Niven’s Known Universe.” —Amazon Reviewer

Council of Fire (Arcane America Book 2)

Eric Flint and Walter H. Hunt

The passage of Halley’s Comet in 1759 is catastrophic. The comet appears to strike the Earth, sundering the New World from the Old and unleashing magic forces, which soon spread everywhere. Enemies who had been on the brink of war must forge a military alliance against the rising dark powers.

“Highly recommended for alternate history and fantasy fans!” —Amazon Reviewer

Uncharted is Arcane America Book 1.

Crazy Town: Rogue Blades Dark Anthology of Fantastical Crime Noir

Julie Frost, Peter McLean, Michael Ehart, Patrick Thomas, Matt Abraham, Milo James Fowler, Jennifer Rachel Baumer, Douglas Smith, Jason M. Waltz, and Peter Gnas

Crazy Town knows no limits. Thirteen daring authors step into the dark and deliver explosive, haunted action: sin, shots, and secrets. This is Mike Hammer meets Roger Rabbit, with another notch closer to crazy.

“You will find a solid mix of nearly all types of speculative fiction, from fantasy to dark fantasy and on to science fiction, a superhero tale, and perhaps a touch of horror here and there.” —Amazon Reviewer

Dead But Once (Saga of the Redeemed Book 3)

Auston Habershaw

Arch-criminal Tyvian Reldamar has gotten complacent, which could prove to be very dangerous for him and his family and loyal friends. The city is known for its genteel aristocracy as much as its diabolical scheming. The ruling families are scrabbling for control with ‘polite’ but cruel tactics, waging war on one another, and Tyvian is being drawn into it. With swashbuckling flare, you will be swept up into a world of crime, magic, and political intrigue where life is cheap and justice is expensive.

“Habershaw’s most thrilling Reldamar adventure yet, with high stakes and dire threats.” —Amazon Reviewer

Deadly Sojourn (Deadly Series Book 1) 

John Haas

A struggling writer deciphers a cryptic message, allegedly from 1871, revealing a nearly impossible to believe story—so crazy it just might be true. Four adventurers take it up and attempt a modern-day treasure hunt to a desolate island. It is not long before they discover that they are not the only ones seeking the treasure and the hunters soon become the hunted!

Deep Magic (Issue 60)

Ken Liu, Christoph Weber, Jeff Wheeler, T.E. Bradford, Christopher Baxter, Charlie N. Holmberg, Obert Skye, and Micah Hyatt

Deep Magic, the e-zine of clean fantasy and science fiction, brings you five amazing short stories, including Ken Liu’s “The Ten Suns”, the winner of the Hugo, Nebula, and World Fantasy Awards, Charlie N. Holmberg’s “The Plastic Magician,” and Obert Skye’s “Wizard for Hire.”

“Delightful refuge with spellbinding creativity and unbounded variety. These short stories are truly gifts of magic.” —Amazon Reviewer

The Devil’s Thief (Last Magician Book 2)

Lisa Maxwell

To save the future of magic, Esta and Harte set off through time to steal back the elemental stones. The Book of Mysteries was supposed to hold the key to freeing the Mageus from the Order’s grasp, but now the book’s furious power lives inside Harte. And if he loses control, the power will rip the world apart—and will use Esta to do it. Only the elemental stones can bind the power. Time is running out as the past and future collide, even for these time-traveling thieves.

“A marvelous book, richly imagined, skillfully plotted, and densely peopled with both real and imaginary figures from a variety of historical times and places.” —Amazon Reviewer

Divergent Fates Anthology

Robert J. Defendi, Matthew S. Cox, J.S. Hughes, Mark W. Woodring, J.P. Sloan, James Wymore, Wilbert Stanton, Patrick Burdine, and Benjamin Sperduto

Eleven unique stories in the Divergent Fates universe from nine daring authors: from the cyber-enhanced world of West City to 2418 Korea to the neo-feudal Japan, onto Allied Corporate Council territory, and straight into the Badlands.

“Well-written for the ever-expanding Divergent Fates universe. This collection of stories was all one could ask for.” —Amazon Reviewer

Dragon’s Hand

David VonAllmen

Grand-prize winner of the Baen Fantasy Adventure Award. David VonAllen grabs you from the star with this opening, “The Chained King. Flaming Goat. Moon of Day. Jane pinched the squares of heavy paper hard enough to turn her fingertips white. She’d finally drawn the hand of cards that would end her years of searching… ”

Earth (Complete Short Fiction Volume 1)

Robert J. Sawyer

Eighteen short stories, anecdotes, and a glimpse into the life of Nebula and Hugo Award-winning author Robert J. Sawyer. Enjoy science fiction, fantasy, and horror stories from the downside of receiving the Encyclopaedia Galactica to the upside of breaking a leg, from an alien on trial to the theft of the Stanley Cup, and much, much more.

“So much awesome.” —Amazon Reviewer

Both Space (volume 2) and Time (volume 3) are also available.

Eradications

William Mitchell

The Moon experiment into self-replicating systems has gone wrong, very wrong. A once-thriving colony lies in ruin, while the machines continue to take over the Moon, already infesting more than two hundred miles and growing. The one man who could stop it is hiding, as the world holds him responsible. Now there are powers at work that would rather control this new machine outbreak than eliminate it. The battle to clean up the operation is turning into an all-out war.

“Action packed and with a lead that is easy to sympathize with. I highly recommend it.” —Amazon Reviewer

Escaping Amnthra: A Diving Universe Novella

Kristine Kathryn Rusch

A gripping, fast-paced read. Raina Serpell assumes command when the captain and senior crew abandon the Renegat. When the ship comes under attack from the planet below, she must urgently figure out how to operate the ship’s firepower. Harder still, she must battle her own past to become the captain in more than just name alone.

“Escaping Amnthra is a full-fledged action-adventure filled with high stakes and near-death experiences.” —Realms & Robots

Faery Prophet: Awakened Magic Saga (Faery Chronicles Book 2)

Leslie Claire Walker

A faery seerʼs apprentice, training to enforce magical law, gets in over his head when a troubled girl asks for help with her supernatural emergency. To save his friends, he must organize the resistance as hell arrives on Earth. He must face his own demons at the risk of becoming one. If you like hidden worlds and star-crossed romance at a fast pace, you’ll love this magical series.

“The stakes are higher than ever, and it’s not clear who can be trusted. Highly recommended!” —Amazon Reviewer

Fiction River: Wishes (Book 28)

Ron Collins, Leslie Claire Walker, Fiction River, Diana Deverell, Robert Jeschonek, Lisa Silverthorne, Annie Reed, Eric Kent Edstrom, Dayle A. Dermatis, and Alexandra Brandt

Fiction River, an original anthology magazine, offers sixteen unique stories centered on the power of making a wish, including a crash course in wishery to save a life, the victim of someone else’s wish, teens trying to wish away their problems only to achieve unexpected results, and many more. These stories offer just the right amount of magic, heart, pathos, and hope—no matter the trouble, these stories will lift your spirit and remind you there is still magic in the world.

“Makes great reading.” —Tangent Online

Final Frontier: A Sci-fi Celebration of the Indomitable Spirit that Carried Humanity to the Moon

C. Stuart Hardwick, David Levine, Matthew Rotundo, Martin Shoemaker, Spider Robinson, Mike Barretta, Sean Monaghan, K. Rylander, Ronald Ferguson, and Nancy Fulda

Final Frontier embraces the thrill of the Apollo program and wonders yet to come in a dozen uplifting stories by today’s award-winning authors. Find humor, tragedy, sacrifice, and good old fashioned cussedness—with a healthy dose of optimism.

“Stories that exemplify the positive vision of our future in space.” —Amazon Reviewer

The Final Summons: A New England Speculative Writers Anthology

D.A. D’Amico, Chris Philbrook, E.J. Stevens, Scott Goudsward, Morgan Sylvia, Michael Bailey, Trisha J. Wooldridge, Rachel Menard, Steve Van Samson, Emma Lowry, Dave Pasquantonio, Suzanne Reynolds-Alpert, Peter N. Dudar, Errick A. Nunnally, Jeremy Flagg, C.H. Duryea, C.L. Alden, and Craig Martelle

Final Summons showcases fourteen brilliant speculative fiction writers and their mind-bending stories. Join assassins and improbable saviors as they battle for survival and strike deals with the Devil. Experience a planet-wide apocalypse and intimate tales of heart-wrenching sacrifice in this provocative short-story collection.

“Great new anthology. Different stories and styles.” —Amazon Reviewer

Forced Perspectives (Vickery and Castine Series Book 2)

Tim Powers

Fugitives Ingrid Castine and Sebastian Vickery find themselves plunged into the supernatural secrets of Los Angeles: from the haunted Sunken City off the coast of San Pedro to the unquiet La Brea Tar Pits at midnight, to the Satanic indie movies of the ’60s. They are pursued by a Silicon Valley guru who is determined to incorporate their souls into the creation of a new and predatory World God.

“Playfully blends Egyptian mythology, alternate Los Angeles history, and modern technology. This labyrinthine tale of the bizarre and fantastic will grip urban fantasy enthusiasts until the end.” —Publisher Weekly, starred review

Alternate Routes is Book 1 of the series.

Frozen Sky (Twin Soul Series Book 3)

Todd McCaffrey, Brianna Winner, and Brittany Winner

“Krea was bored and when she was bored, bad things always followed.” Welcome to the Twin Souls Series, a gaslamp fantasy world of magic, wyverns, dragons, airships, mechanical men, and mayhem. Newly-returned from the maiden voyage of the royal airship Spite, and tasked with a new and more dangerous voyage, Captain Ford and his crew are forced to choose between king and queen, glory or survival, and loyalty or greed, as they sail to the bitter north to bring back the winter wyvern—dead or alive. With adventure, romance, witchcraft, meddlesome gods, and danger around every corner, Frozen Sky is the thrilling sequel to Cloud Conqueror.

“Phenomenal at keeping the reader in anticipation.” —Amazon Reviewer

The Future is Nigh: A Treasury of Science Fiction & Fantasy

C.L. Holland, Martin L. Shoemaker, C. Hardwick, Matthew S. Rotundo, William Ledbetter, L.D. Colter, and Brian Trent

What happens when winners of the Writers of the Future Contest come together? They bring you truly exceptional stories: from lab rats on the run to rocket-borne dreams and weird casualty loops to Serlingesque kismet. These talented authors have just begun to receive accolades: two Golden Pen Awards, a Jim Baen Memorial Award finalist, a Nebula Award nominee, a Tangent Online Recommended Reading List selection, and a Washington Science Fiction Association Small Press Award.

“A marvelous collection of stories. Each story steps outside the walls of this world and shows us why these tremendous talents won Writers of the Future.” —Peter Wacks, co-author of the Heroes Reborn Series

Future Science Fiction Digest (Issue 2)

N.R.M. Roshak, Mike Resnick, Tais Teng, Jaap Boekestein, David Walton, Wanxiang Fengnian (translated by Nathan Faries), Dantzel Cherry, Natalia Theodoridou, Beth Cato, Svyatoslav Loginov (translated by Max Hrabrov), and Alex Shvartsman (editor)

50,000 words of original science fiction from thinking androids to human consciousness spanning multiple bodies, from the time of the dinosaurs to the heat death of the universe, from cats on the Moon to alien salad dressing that makes plastic delicious (and digestible)—there is something for everyone.

Future Visions (Vol 2)

Fiona Lehn, Brian J. Walton, J. Scott Worthington, Bill Hackenberger, Allison Spooner, R.K. Nickel, Mark Keigley, Judith Baron, Julianne Q. Johnson, Lynette Mejía, Nestor Delfino, Ellen Denton, and Andrea Kriz

Future Visions presents twelve visional tales of the future—visions of heartbreak, horror, and humor with the common thread that despite the infinite possibilities we are still human. These future visions include a horrifying scientific discovery about the common house cat and a mother forced to listen to the sounds of her dying child every night. These are just a glimpse of what you will discover in this collection.

“These stories are windows into our possible future.” —Amazon Reviewer

Galaxy’s Edge Magazine (Issue 30)

• Editor: Mike Resnick

• Laurie Tom, David VonAllmen, Sean Patrick Hazlett, Joe Haldeman, David Afsharirad, George Nikolopoulos, Kij Johnson, M. E. Garber, Mercedes Lackey, Eric Leif Davin, Nick DiChario, and Joan Slonczewski

• Columns by: Robert J. Sawyer, Gregory Benford, Jody Lynn Nye, Bill Fawcett, and Joy Ward

Galaxy’s Edge is a Hugo-nominated magazine with stories from both new and long time friends, including an original story by Laurie Tom of an alternate history where wind magic shapes the tactics of World War I, involving a disabled Chinese Kite Dancer. A horror story utilizing gruesome blood sacrifices and greed by Sean Patrick Hazlett. David VonAllmen deftly mixes action and background to paint a sympathetic antagonist told from the monster’s perspective.

“My appreciation of the genre, the past masters, and new talent has expanded greatly thanks to this effort by Mike Resnick.” —Amazon Reviewer

Galaxy’s Edge Magazine (Issue 36)

• Editor: Mike Resnick

• Stories: Robert Silverberg, Todd McCaffrey, Elly Bangs, Austin DeMarco, Dan Koboldt, Edward M. Lerner, Jane Yolen, Alvaro Zinos-Amaro, Thomas K. Carpenter, Bill Pronzini, Barry N. Malzberg, Joy Kennedy-O’Neill, Christopher Blake, Joe Haldeman, and Charles Sheffield

• Columns, articles, and interviews: Robert J. Sawyer, Gregory Benford, Jody Lynn Nye, Bill Fawcett, and Joy Ward (interviewing F. Paul Wilson)

Galaxy’s Edge is a bi-monthly magazine of science fiction and fantasy. It features some fine stories by new and newer writers, plus old friends. Also included are the recommended books column, the science column, the literary column, an interview with F. Paul Wilson, and part three of Tomorrow and Tomorrow. The enthusiasm for the magazine has kept it going strong for six-years, now celebrating with issue 36!

Galaxy’s Edge Magazine (Issue 39)

• Editor: Mike Resnick

• Stories: Kevin J. Anderson, Nancy Kress, Kristine Kathryn Rusch, Gregory Benford, AustonHabershaw, Joe Haldeman, Lou J. Berger, Shawn Proctor, Floris M. Kleijne, Christopher L. Bennett, R.D. Harris, Eleanor R. Wood, Rick Norwood, and Robert Jeschonek

• Articles by: Charles Sheffield, Robert J. Sawyer, and Richard Chwydyk

• Interview by: Joy Ward on Gordon Van Gelder (Part II)

Each issue of the magazine has a mix of new and old stories, a serialization of a novel, columns by Robert J. Sawyer and Gregory Benford, book recommendations by Richard Chwydyk, and an interview conducted by Joy Ward.

“Memorable characters, a vivid picture of life on the edge, and it left me feeling sympathy for the only non-human in the story.” —Amazon Reviewer

Glass and Gardens: Solarpunk Winters

Brian Burt, Sarena Ulibarri, Wendy Nikel, Holly Schofield, Sandra Ulbrich Almazan, Sarah Van Goethem, Steve Toase, Heather Kitzman, Tessa Fisher, Andrew Dana Hudson, Thomas Badlan, Tales from the EV Studio and Commando Jugendstil, Jennifer Lee Rossman, Lex T. Lindsay, R. Jean Mathieu, Jerri Jerreat, Catherine F. King, and Shel Graves

This anthology is about regular people rising to extraordinary circumstances to survive extreme winter weather, to fix a threat to their community’s energy source, to save a living city from a deep-rooted sickness, of scientists working together to protect narwhals from an oil spill, to bring snow back to the mountains of Maine, to preserve ecosystems—even if they have to be under glass domes. Some stories take place after an environmental catastrophe, with luxury resorts and military bases and mafia strongholds transformed into sustainable communes; others rethink the way we could organize cities, using seascrapers, skybridges and constructed islands to survive the ecosystem we have created. Even when the nights are long, the future is bright in these seventeen diverse tales.

Half-Witch: A Novel

John Schoffstall

An NPR Book Concierge selection (best books 2018). Lizbet embarks on an impossible journey to find a mysterious book, a book that will free her father from a terrible tyrant. To get it she must enlist the help of Strix, a sarcastic young witch. Together they must cross the Montagnes du Monde, globe-girdling mountains that reach to the sky, and outrun powerful witches, goblins, and criminals. But to her horror, Lizbet realizes that Strixʼs magic is turning her into a witch too.

“Genuinely thrilling, unexpectedly poignant, and oddly reverent. Powerful female friendship.” ―Kirkus Reviews (starred review)

HALO: The Cole Protocol

Tobias S. Buckell

New York Times bestseller based on the award-winning video game series Halo. It is 2535. Entrusted with a top-secret mission by the Office of Naval Intelligence, Navy Lieutenant Jacob Keyes heads to a remote corner of the galaxy where nothing is as it seems. He must rid the galaxy of navigational data that could potentially reveal the location of Earth, which would lead to the destruction of humanity.

“The richness of the Halo universe is developed even further in this amazing novel by an amazing author, Tobias Bucknell, who really seems to understand the tone and energy of the Halo lore. Cole Protocol is one of the most gripping tales.” —Amazon Reviewer

The Hidden Girl and Other Stories

Ken Liu

This collection includes a selection of fantasy and science fiction stories written over the last five years, including sixteen of his best, a new novelette, and an excerpt from book three in the Dandelion Dynasty series, The Veiled Throne.

“Several [stories] capable of piercing the heart.” —Kirkus Reviews

The Hive (The Second Formic War Book 2 and prequel to Enderʼs Game)

Orson Scott Card and Aaron Johnston

A hard science fiction history of the Formic Wars (the alien invasions of Earth’s solar system preceding Ender’s Game). Earth’s nations barely fought off the Formics’ first scout ship, and now it’s clear that there’s a mother-ship out on edge of the system. Can Earth’s warring corporations and nations put aside their differences and mount a defense that will hold?

“Solid.” ―Deseret News

The Swarm is Book 1 in The Second Formic War series.

Infinite Lives: Short Tales of Longevity (Third Flatiron Anthologies Book 26)

Wulf Moon, Brian Trent, David Cleden, Sloane Leong, Matt Thompson, J. B. Toner, Larry C. Kay, David F. Schultz, D. A. Campisi, Russell Dorn, Samson Stormcrow Hayes, Ingrid Garcia, Maureen Bowden, Brandon Butler, Caias Ward, Leah Miller, Megan Branning, Robert Walton, K. G. Anderson, Louis Evans, John Paul Davies, Tom Pappalardo, Philip John Schweitzer, Martin M. Clark, Mack Moyer, Konstantine Paradias, E. E. King, and Sarah Totton. Edited by Juliana Rew.

28 stories with the themes of immortality, longevity, and technological life extension. In these stories you will meet a man cursed with immortality who finally finds joy when technology defeats death, the Grim Reaper finds an enthusiastic successor in a coffee shop barrista, a conquistador and his war dog put their dip in the fountain of youth to good use, aliens convince a scientist to abandon her immortality drug and let evolution take its course, a war criminal pays back the lives she took, and a Zoroastrian angel battles a demon through eternity, until a truce becomes love. These and many more explore the pros and cons of longevity and how it is achieved.

“Great and varied stories. Whether you like laughs or gasps, try it, you’ll like it.”—Amazon Reviewer

Intergalactic Medicine Show (Book 65)

Tony Pi, Steve Pantazis, K.G. Jewell, Jonathan Edelstein, and Megan Lee Beals

Orson Scott Cardʼs InterGalactic Medicine Show is an online science fiction and fantasy magazine. This eclectic caravan of wonder brings you the sci-fi short story “God of Warˮ and fantasy short stories “The Late Mr. Folsom’s Luminosity Shop,ˮ “Nwanyi Enwe Eze,ˮ and “Coachwhip and Wade, Hex Tamers for Hire.”

Intergalactic Medicine Show (Book 67)

Dustin Steinacker, Andrew Peery, Brian Trent, Alex Shvartsman, Leah Cypress, Randall Hayes, and Alethea Kontis

The Intergalactic Medicine Show brings you vibrant, strident, beckoning, and beseeching science fiction short stories. From a false Messiah to a harrowing journey homeward that feels at once fantastic and terrifyingly possible; from a cloned consciousness threatening the earth in order to win the hearts (and presence) of his source’s wife and child to a reporter fallen from the elite castes of the Arkology into the rattle-scrabble world of junkpunks.

“It includes a novelette and four short stories, three science fictional and two science fantasies.” —Tangent Online

Interzone Magazine (Issue 279, January/February 2019)

David Cleden, Sean McMullen, Alison Wilgus, Tim Chawaga, G.V. Anderson, and William Squirrel

Interzone, the British science fiction magazine, welcomes in the new year with half a dozen new cutting edge science fiction and fantasy original works. Some of the stories look to the past, while others to the future, from fast-moving steampunk fantasy to existence in a bizarre new world.

“Thrilling tale of intrigue and adventure.” —Tangent Online

Interzone Magazine (Issue 280, March/April 2019)

Shauna O’Meara, Van Nolan, Maria Haskins, Nicholas Kaufmann, and Sarah Brooks

Enjoy this collection of two fantasies and three science fiction tales, including religion, revenge, redemption, reconfiguration, and romance. These original tales take you to other universes and introduce unique characters with fresh adventure and intrigue.

“All are substantial.” —Tangent Online

The Kill Zone

Kevin J. Anderson & Doug Beason

A Cold War-era nuclear weapons storage facility is being used to covertly receive 100,000 tons of nuclear waste. But Hydra Mountain was never meant to securely hold this much hazardous waste, and it has the potential to explode, taking with it all of Albuquerque and spreading radioactivity across the nation. When a small plane crashes at a nearby military base, this threat proves all-too-possible setting off Hydra’s lockdown and trapping a team in the heart of the hazardous, waste-filled mountain. The only direction for them to go is deeper into the mountain, through the tear gas and into a secretive area no one was ever supposed to know about.

“Shines light on the greatest security lapse of our age. Fans of Dan Brown and Michael Crichton won’t want to miss this high-tech thriller!” ―Ward Larsen, USA Today bestselling author

The Last Dance (The Near-Earth Mysteries Book 1)

Martin Shoemaker

At the heart of a mystery unfolding in space, the opposing forces make a treacherous journey between Earth and Mars. In space, mutiny means death. The alleged mutineer is Captain Aames, whose command of the massive Earth-Mars vessel Aldrin has come under fire. The vast System Initiative says he disobeyed orders, but his crew swears he’s in the right. The investigation is complex, with corruption, conflicting loyalties, and clashing accounts that make it nearly impossible to see the truth in fifty million miles of darkness, and Investigator Park faces danger from every direction. All eyes are on her: one way or another, her findings will have astronomical implications for the Aldrin and the future of space travel.

“It’s not often that I get to trumpet a novel that so imaginatively straddles genres. A twists-and-turns mystery or a deeply impassioned romance, or both, are as much at home on a “Mars cycler” as in any terrestrial setting.” −Jason Kirk, Editor

The Legacy of Heorot (Heorot Series Book 1)

Larry Niven, Jerry Pournelle, and Steven Barnes

The two hundred colonists on board the Geographic have spent a century in cold-sleep to arrive in Avalon, a lush and verdant planet light-years from Earth. Their very presence has upset the ecology of Avalon. Soon an implacable predator stalks them, picking them off one by one. To defeat this alien enemy they must reevaluate everything they think they know about Avalon and uncover the planet’s dark secrets.

“Outstanding! The best ever, by the best in the field. The ultimate combination of imagination and realism.” —Tom Clancy (The Hunt for Red October)

Heorot Series Book 2 is also available.

Let Sleeping Dragons Lie (Have Sword, Will Travel #2)

Sean Williams and Garth Nix

When an old man named Edga and a warrior named Hundred, with an ancient dragon chant, come to the kingdom, knights Odo, Eleanor, and their swords, Runnel and Biter, take off on a quest to unfamiliar lands, to fight unseen enemies, and unlock unbelievable secrets in order to prevent an unbearable impostor from taking the crown. Also, they will need to keep an eye out for dragons. Join these unlikely heroes on a tale full of fire, laughs, and twists for adventurous readers of all ages.

“They are fast and fun to read, interesting in both world-building and characterization. I really enjoyed devouring each of them.” —Amazon Reviewer

The Levelling

Will Mitchell

In the wake of what is only known as the leveling, the decimation of Germany after WWII, Hitler’s scientists (and those continuing his research into the occult) are close to unleashing powers that have not been wielded on Earth for over six thousand years. They will not stop until the gateway between this world and the worlds beyond are theirs to control.

Little Things (Buffy the Vampire Slayer Book 26)

Rebecca Moesta

Buffy is having a hard time keeping her chin up and taking responsibility for Dawn since the death of her mom—even the little things are getting her down. When evil mini-monsters are discovered in Weatherly Park wreaking havoc, Buffy and the Slayers have mega-trouble on their hands, and little things take on new meaning. If the Slayers are going to stop this economy-sized evil, they are going to have think small!

“It’s got all the makings for a real Buffy episode: drama, horror, humor … and Spike!” —Amazon Reviewer

Lost Signals

Tim Doyle, Charles Gannon, Lawrence Schoen, Kacey Ezell, Mike Massa, Walter Hunt, Marc Miller, Joelle Presby, Alex Shvartsman, Gray Rinehart, Barbara Krasnoff, Robert R. Chase, Vonnie Winslow Crist, Alan Brown, Alistair Kimble, Robert E. Hampson, Rick Boatright, Jean Marie Ward, Griffin Barber, and Doug Dandridge

Just as humanity finally reaches out to the stars, it is confronted by “exosapient” species with unusual motivations. Caine Riordan and his team must contend with both humans and aliens during the exploration, statecraft, and warfare in our post-contact world. Lost Signals dives deep into the struggles of those beyond the spotlight. Twenty new voices tell twenty gripping stories of intrigue and high-stakes war throughout the Consolidated Terran Republic.

“The satisfying resolution is enhanced by the promise of more excitement to come in this fascinating far-future universe.” —Publishers Weekly Starred Review

Luck Be Ladies: A Poker Boy Collection

Dean Wesley Smith

Sometimes Poker Boy and his team come to the aid of Lady Luck, the most powerful God of them all—the boss of everything. Meet three of Lady Luck’s daughters: the Queen of Hearts, the Queen of Diamonds, and the Queen of Clubs. Poker Boy also gets to save Lady Luck and her one great love. Enjoy the crazy world of Poker Boy, one of the newest and most puzzling superheroes you might ever meet.

Made in L.A.: Stories Rooted in the City of Angels (Book 1)

Amy Sterling Casil, Cody Sisco, Dario Ciriello, Allison Rose, Gabi Lorino, Jude-Marie Green, Andre Hardy, and Bonnie Randall

Los Angeles-based authors bring a diverse range of genres and voices. Nothing is off-limits. Contemporary, noir, literary, science fiction, and ghost stories that will forever change the way you look at this iconic metropolis. For example, in Amy Sterling Casil’s “Chromosome Circus” a circus of genetic freaks must care for an abandoned furry boy who shows up out of the blue.

“Vibrant. The voices on display are as diverse as the people who call this grand, sprawling, intimate place home.” —Dan Lopez, author of Keep Your Eyes Open Till Morning Light

Magazine of Fantasy & Science Fiction (Book 134)

William Ledbetter, C.C. Finlay, Gordon Van Gelder, Andy Stewart, Charlotte Ashley, Chi Hui, Susan Palwick, Marc Laidlaw, Charles de Lint, Paul Di Filippo, and Michelle West

These amazing authors bring you original works of science fiction and fantasy, exploring the dangers of the faery world colliding with the mortal realm, a moving story about acceptance and healing, a hunt for the beast from below, a young girl in Nigeria and the cost of social protest, a dark fantasy about being caught between the ocean and the cliffs, and a hard science fiction short story about the exploration of Titan. Read these short captivating tales and many more.

Man-Kzin Wars XV (Man-Kzin Wars Series Book 15)

Larry Niven, Brad R. Torgersen, Martin L. Shoemaker, Brendan DuBois, Hal Colebach, Jessica Q. Fox, and Jason Fregeau

The Man-Kzin Wars have been going for years, and despite the series of battles, neither side has ever been able to declare victory once and for all. The humans should have been easy prey with their small stature and lack of claws for the predatory catlike warrior race known as the Kzin. They have encountered and conquered many alien worlds with little effort; however, the war with humanity rages on in these short stories by award-winning authors.

“Wonderful job of covering new territory, while reading EXACTLY like Niven. It is UTTERLY faithful to the entire series. Recommended without reservation.” —Amazon Reviewer

Monsters Among Us (The Changeling Detective Book 2)

Shauna O’Meara and Phillip Berrie

A detective noir urban fantasy with elements of horror, crime, witchcraft, and deep-time science fiction told from the perspective of a quick-thinking protagonist, the changeling detective. Once coming to grips with the fact that he is either a mutant or a devil incarnate, the tries to get on with his life. With his girlfriend becoming the latest addition to the Triple-A Detective Agency, they tackle their first case: the disappearance of a British journalist and soon discover they can’t leave their old lives behind them and hope to survive.

“Great read.” —Amazon Reviewer

Moon Tracks (Bright Sparks Book 2)

Jody Lynn Nye and Travis S. Taylor

A teenage girl and her fellow Bright Sparks, along with twenty-five other teams, are making the first race around the Moon—counting on one another as they face thousands of kilometers of unknown dangers, where even a simple accident can have fatal consequences. While Dr. Bright is searching for rare minerals underneath a crater on the far side of the Moon, disaster strikes and only the Bright Sparks are close enough help him. Now the young scientists are not only racing for victory, but to save their beloved mentor.

“Fun and plausible futuristic elements. This science-fueled race around the moon is a nerdy Fast and the Furious.” —Booklist

Mr. Wells & the Martians: A Thrilling Eyewitness Account of the Recent Alien Invasion

Kevin J. Anderson

Was the War of the Worlds just a warning? When discovering the imminent launch of Martian cylinders for an invasion of Earth, young H.G. Wells and his beloved Jane unite with scientists Professor Cavor, T.H. Huxley, and Hawley Griffin, the invisible man, to find a way to prevent the attack from Mars. Their epic adventure takes them to the craters of the Moon and the canals of Mars, where they must stop the looming tripods and deadly heat ray. While on Earth, Doctor Moreau and Percival Lowell have captured a Martian specimen of their own and will do what it takes to extract the plans from this alien spy.

Music in the Night

Michelle Levigne

Ess must reach Carmen before it is too late. Carmen has no idea of the power in her blood or that the rose made of crystal allowed the Originators and Revisionists to travel through time. Carmen and her orphan charges are out on the streets in the shelter of an underground community, whose leader fears he is slowly growing insane. Carmen’s music may be the key to solving puzzles passed down from their ancestors, and only Ess knows that the fate of the world rests in their hands.

Of Wars, and Memories, and Starlight

Aliette de Bodard

Fourteen dazzling tales that showcase the richly textured world-building and beloved characters that have brought her so much acclaim. Discover the endless invention and breadth of her universes, ranging from the multiple award-winning Xuya, a far-future space opera inspired by Vietnamese culture where scholars administrate planets and sentient spaceships are part of families, to a dark Gothic Paris devastated by a magical war. This collection includes a never-before-seen 20,000-word novella, Of Birthdays, and Fungus, and Kindness.

“First mesmerizing collection of 14 tantalizing gems!” —Amazon Reviewer

Pack Dynamics: A Price to Pay

Julie Frost

Private eye Ben Lockwood, recently infected with lycanthropy, finds peace in his werewolf state. When one of his past horrors comes back into his life, armed with werewolf nanotech and determined to seek revenge, Ben is given a chance at payback of his own—his own inner demons may be a far graver threat than a nanotech-enhanced werewolf nearly twice his size.

“Frost’s newest book really keeps up the tension throughout. You won’t be able to stop turning pages.” —Amazon Reviewer

Passages: Best of NewMyths Anthology (Vol 1)

Scott T. Barnes, Marta Tanrikulu, Brent C. Smith, Delaney Green, Adele Gardner, Andy Oldfield, Susan Shell Winston, Andrew L. Roberts, Jennifer Winston, Bob Sojka, Toby MacNutt, Lisa Timpf, Ellen Denham, Vanessa Fogg, Aaron Zimmerman, R.W.W. Greene, Kathryn Yelinek, Gunnar De Winter, Christina Sng, Ann K. Schwader, Marge Simon, Rebecca Roland, Michelle Kaseler, Steven L. Peck, Ronald D. Ferguson, Jordan Taylor, Beth Cato, David Bowles, Stephen S. Power, Mike O’Reilly, Mark Arvind White, Doug Tierney, and Susan Winston (editor)

Passages by NewMyths e-zine presents twenty-five speculative stories and eight poems on the triumphs and losses, hopes and fears of entering—and surviving—every stage of life, from the magic of childhood to the struggles at the end. Contributing authors include award-winners of the NewMyths Reader’s Choice, Rhysling, Bram Stoker, and Writers of the Future along with other bonus and original material.

Petra Released (The Prison World Revolt Book 2)

Matthew Rotundo

The battle for Petra has just begun. Kane and Tayla must work with unlikely allies to fight merciless enemies to save themselves and all they believe in. While finding shelter from the brutal winter, Kane uncovers a plot to seize control of Petra that could kill millions, including himself and his friends. Shadowy forces in Farside are destroying all enemies and the powerful Petra Compact is hunting for the explosive prisoner records that were smuggled offworld—which have fallen into the hands of Kane’s wife, Tayla …

“Great writing. Story kept me so interested it was hard to put the book down, I loved it!” —Amazon Reviewer

The Post-Apocalyptic Tourist’s Guide to Mammoth Cave (Series 2, Book 5)

Stephen Lawson, M.T. Reiten, Andrew Peery, and Ville Meriläinen

Oliver Lawrence searched for survivors in the depths of Mammoth Cave many years before Thursday Forrester made a desperate trek across the states. With an invisible monster haunting him, Oliver uses his ever-dwindling resources—and his wit—to keep his team alive.

“Another great installment in The Post-Apocalyptic Tourist’s Guide series. I love the premise of the series and the group of authors who are contributing their talents to the story.” —Amazon Reviewer

The Prometheus Objective: The Morpheus Initiative (Book 5)

David Sakmyster

In a world on the brink of devastation, with the population reeling from psychic visions, a team of remote viewers must find a way to reverse the damage. The team has one chance, and one choice—in their secret base under the Antarctic ice they have access to the wisdom from the dawn of time: will they accept this gift … and the consequences?

“An excellent read. Fun, suspenseful, terrifying, and thrilling at times.” —Amazon Reviewer

Pulphouse Fiction Magazine (Issue 4)

Mike Resnick, Kevin J. Anderson, Kristine Kathryn Rusch, Dean Wesley Smith, J. Steven York, Robert Jeschonek, Kent Patterson, M. L. Buchman, Chuck Heintzelman, Michael Kowal, Jerry Oltion, Mary Jo Rabe, O’Neil De Noux, Ray Vukcevich, Sabrina Chase, David Stier, Valerie Brook, Stephanie Writt, and Annie Reed

Hugo Award-nominated magazine. As the cutting edge of modern short fiction, Pulphouse presents eighteen imaginative stories by some of the leading authors in contemporary short fiction. Just great stories, no topic or genre limitations. Feel, attitude, and high-quality fiction equals Pulphouse.

“All the stories have a lot of life to them.” —Tangent Online

The Queen of Crows (Sacred Throne Book 2)

Myke Cole

Heloise is no longer a shell-shocked girl, but a figure of revolution. Crippling injuries and religious tyrants, make her cause grow stronger. With the help of alchemically-empowered armor and an unbreakable spirit, she must rise to greatness and face the tyrannical Order to win freedom for her people.

“A heart-wrenching, blood-racing, all-around page-turner. Spare, vivid and surprisingly sensual, with a small, fierce heroine who will stick in your mind and live in your soul. ” —Diana Gabaldon, author of New York Times bestselling Outlander

The Queen’s Adepts

Daniel J. Davis

A fast-paced adventure fantasy set in a city of flintlock firearms, sorcery, and steam-powered machines, in the tradition of Fritz Leiber. When a supernatural monster tries to assassinate the queen, two unlikely heroes need to uncover the truth—an ex-magician, aging war hero, and once a member of the legendary Queen’s Adepts, and the “Holy Roller,” a prizefighting priest. However, the corrupt Homeguards plan to pin the crime on them and the Cardinal of the Church silences those who ask too many questions.

“Great book from a new author. If you like steampunk and fantasy mix, check it out.” —Amazon Reviewer

Release the Virgins

Jody Lynn Nye, Brian Trent, Michael Ventrella, David Gerrold, Allen M. Steele, Lawrence Watt-Evans, Keith R.A. DeCandido, Daniel M. Kimmel, Sharon Lee, Steve Miller, Shariann Lewitt, Alex Shvartsman, Matt Becthel, Shariann Lewitt, Gordon Linzner, Gail Z. Martin, Beth W. Patterson, Hildy Silverman, Patrick Thomas, and Cecilia Tan

Creative and varied fantasy, science fiction, outright comedy, and serious imaginings inspired by the concept: Release the Virgins. You’ll meet Manhattan gangsters, computer hackers, marathon-running aliens, teenage Cthulhu worshippers, sad superheroes, ghost dinosaurs, and even a unicorn or two.

“This collection keeps you guessing and grinning. Fantastic collection of well-known and respected authors who clearly enjoyed writing their short stories. Highly recommend.” —Amazon Reviewer

Resurrection Trust: Green Stories Competition Winners

Mica Scotti Kole, Brian Burt, Jane Roberts, Caroline Lucas, and Amanda Saint (editor)

These original speculative fiction stories are inspired by the potential of living sustainably: from sharing economies to resetting the earth back to prehistoric times, and from eco communities to singing buildings. These stories showcase diverse ideas about how humans can live more harmoniously with nature, and each other. They are funny, mad, dark, downbeat, upbeat, and fantastical short stories from the University of Southampton’s Green Stories writing competition.

“Diverse, surprising, and hugely enjoyable collection of entries.” —Jonathon Porritt, Co-Founder of Forum for the Future

Re-Quest: Dark Fantasy Stories of Quests & Searches (Book 3)

Doug C. Souza, Douglas Smith, Robert E. Howard, James Dorr, Gregory L. Norris, Jonathan Shipley, Kelly A. Harmon, Dennis Mombauer, C.B. Droege, Jennifer Rachel Baumer, Dale W. Glaser, Jeremy Zimmerman, Christine Lucas, Bradley Sinor, Chris Kuriata, and Vonnie Crist (editor)

Wander magical worlds in sixteen fantasy tales, from old gods outwitted by heroes, dragons roaming the earth, magical weapons that bring good and evil, a wizard witnessing endless battles, and much, much more. Re-Quest will take you on fantastical quests filled with magic, adventure, and danger.

Revelation: A Post-Apocalyptic Zombie Thriller (Arize Book 2)

Scott Nicholson

A zombie outbreak, with storms, earthquakes, and devastating plagues appear to support the enigmatic Rev. Cameron Ingram’s claim that this is a biblical apocalypse. He is rapidly forcing the world to submit to his authority. Dr. Meg Perriman and a group of survivors head for the BioGenix research lab in hopes to find a cure, but getting there is nearly impossible with the dead rising from their graves … and Meg isn’t sure that science can explain these sinister mysteries.

“His unique storyteller abilities bring this story to life. This is a must read for sci-fi horror fans.” —Amazon Reviewer

Rewrite: Loops in the Timescape

Gregory Benford

A sequel to Gregory Benford’s award-winning bestseller Timescape. In this clever thriller, a history professor travels back to 1968, the year he was sixteen, where he finds a slew of others with the same ability, including Philip K. Dick, Albert Einstein, and Robert Heinlein. When he discovers this is a time loop, he tries to change one of the events of 1968, and not be self-indulgent—until some wicked time-travelers try to subvert him.

“Neatly balancing high concept hard SF with a humanistic appeal has made for a broadly accessible story that works well across the entire sci-fi spectrum.” —Amazon Reviewer

Rick and Morty vs. Dungeons & Dragons (Book 3)

Patrick Rothfuss, Jim Zub, and Troy Little

Dungeons & Dragons paradigms are real, and until Rick and Morty made their mark, the rules were absolute. You will plead the fifth (edition) as this chaotically evil story of family friction and fantasy frolics immerse you. Reality’s most dysfunctional animated series. The world’s greatest role-playing game. What could go wrong?

“Tons of fun and for DnD players, it is full of laughs. You don’t even have to be a Rick and Morty fan to love this one. And the art is really, really well done.” —Amazon Reviewer

Salvage Conquest: Tales from the Salvage Title Universe

Brad R. Torgersen, Kevin Steverson, Chris Kennedy, Christopher Woods, Kevin Ikenberry, Robert E. Hampson, Van Allen Plexico, Ian J. Malone, Marisa Wolf, Quincy J. Allen, John G. Hartness, KC Johnston, Alex Rath, David Alan Jones, and Mark Wandrey

Salvage System is a beacon of hope, and a number of other races have begun looking toward it as an inspiration for how to live and govern themselves, and—in some cases—for assistance in defending themselves and throwing off oppressive regimes.  Fifteen incredible authors give you a look at some of the beacons of hope … and some of the malevolence that has yet to show its face. Can the system’s founder Harmon Tomeral and his friends hold out against it?

Shards: A Noblebright Fantasy Anthology (Lucent Anthologies Book 3)

Ville Meriläinen, B. Morris Allen, J.E. Bates, Jade Black, Gustavo Bondoni, Bokerah Brumley, Stephen Case, R.K. Duncan, M.C. Dwyer, Chloe Garner, Kelly A. Harmon, Pete Alex Harris, Ben Howels, Tom Jolly, Brandon M. Lindsay, Alice Loweecey, Jason J. McCuiston, Alex McGilvery, Jennifer R. Povey, Holly Lyn Walrath, Pat Woods, and Richard Zwicker, C.J. Brightley (editor)

This is an exciting collection of noblebright fantasy inspired by shards of myth and memory, the shards of life, shards of broken pottery or glass, and shards of a broken heart. The grimbright and nobledark stories included explore themes of brokenness tempered by redemption and despair tempered by hope. (‘Noblebright’ comes from gaming, taking noble +‎ bright; opposite of grimdark. It is a fantasy fiction subgenre involving good triumphing over evil and often a heroic quest.)

“Wonderfully unique tales. Amazing world-building and storytelling.” —Amazon Reviewer

The Shredded Tapestry: A Gothic Horror Story

Ryan Harvey

A thrilling Gothic horror story in the classical English tradition. On the run and accepting shelter from an old monastery, Richard Davey’s nightmare amps up when he comes face to face with the diabolic vengeance in feline shape that has haunted the monks for over two centuries, seeking redress for a crime committed long ago.

“Modern Gothic horror which actually entertained me.” —Amazon Reviewer

Soldier’s Heart (Brotherhood Protectors World Part 4)

Ilsa J. Bick and Brotherhood Protectors World

The killers are en route with a Special Ops team to recapture Kate McEvoy. She reluctantly joins forces with Wynn, though she suspects a double-cross. Though it will mean recapture, she tries to signal her minders only to discover that she has not only lost access, but the biobots and Jack are battling to take control. The clock is ticking. It’s a fight for life. Or death for all of them. Click here to get the whole series.

“Outstanding book. This was a much-anticipated book that surpassed what I could even imagine it would be.” —Amazon Reviewer

Speak Truth to Fire

Matthew Candelaria

This blend of supernatural horror with the all-too-real human horror of burning crosses, racism, and con artists creates an uneasy tension that builds throughout in this cross between Dashiell Hammett and H.P. Lovecraft. In the 1920s, the Klan ruled Denver. But what dark power ruled the Klan? Stanley Fields, P.I. and witch, is sent to Denver to stop a powerful conjuring. He finds a culture of cons, corruption, and bootlegging. Along with a couple of unlikely allies, they must dispel the lies about Otoniel Garcia, framed for the murder of an heiress to generate the hate needed to fuel the evil conjuring. But how can they succeed in a society where a pact with evil passes for patriotism?

“There is a breathless intensity to the atmosphere and pace. The writing is tight.” —Amazon Reviewer

The Speed of Belief: A Great Ship Novella

Robert Reed

Asimov’s Best Novella finalist. An alien world inhabited by highly-intelligent—and living—rivers, made a deal with the Great Ship: humanity will be given moons and planets as gifts IF they send a mortal human as a sacrifice. Amund unexpectedly volunteers. Now this ordinary mortal holds the lives of billions in his grasp.

“A very rich story and an interesting exploration of what life really is.” —SFRevu

The Spherical Trust (The Sphere of Influence Book 3)

Mjke Wood

The King of the Sphere of Influence and Finance Director may both be in danger, but the threat is bigger than either man. In fact, there’s more to save than a ragtag band of mercenaries or even a lost planet—this time, the future of the whole Sphere of Influence is in play.

“A solid story loaded with very creative technology. I marvel at the things Woods comes up with. The well-developed characters are not what we usually see as space heroes. I highly recommend this book for a fun and engaging read.” —Amazon Reviewer

The Spirit in the Clay, Chapel Hollow/Silent Strength of Stones Universe

Nina Kiriki Hoffman

At the Winter Holiday Market, Evan Seale and Nick Verrou are challenged with what gifts to choose when your girlfriend is a witch and your best friend is a shapeshifter. To make matters worse, they discover that some gifts have agendas of their own and some gifts fight back!

“The author creates strong, cohesive fantasies with flawless logic that draw you in.” —Amazon Reviewer

Spirit Seeker: The Kassandra Leyden Adventures

Jeff Young

Kassandra strives to defend both the living and the departed, with the whispers of spirits in her ear and unlikely allies at her back. She’s inherited the extraordinary talents of her parents, and when her mother vanishes and her father turns to drinking, she must navigate her own way. There is as much intrigue as adventure when she learns that not all those she’s had faith in are to be trusted.

A Star-Wheeled Sky

Brad R. Torgersen

The surviving factions of humanity are on the brink of war—a democracy vs. a totalitarian nightmare. The race to take control of the new Waywork intergalactic superhighway, and whatever revelation or power lies on the other side, will determine Humanity’s fate­—freedom or endless dictatorship.

“Solid hard sci-fi with the frisson of well thought through action. Much to enjoy!” —Gregory Benford, author of Timescape

Starsight (Skyward Book 2)

Brandon Sanderson

Starlight is the second book in an epic series about a girl with a secret in a dangerous world at war for humanity’s future. Spensa is sure that there’s more to the story. And she’s sure that whatever happened to her father that day could happen to her. Humankind has always celebrated heroes, but who defines what a hero is? Could humanity be the evil the galaxy needs to be protected from?

“He’s simply a brilliant writer. Period.” —Patrick Rothfuss (Name of the Wind)

Skyward is Book 1 in the series.

Stellar Glory

Scot Noel and Frank Schurter (illustrator)

The crew of the Intrepid, while responding to a distress call from an isolated colony, encounter the impossible—a winged god leading demonic warriors that can change shape and command great energies at will. This is just the beginning of their desperate mission, where through struggle and sacrifice, they risk their souls, challenge their beliefs, and suffer the loss of loved ones to stop psychotic alien renegades from establishing an eternal abyss among the stars. Stellar Glory is space opera in the tradition of Star Trek, Battlestar Galactica, and Babylon 5, where flawed but heroic characters face overwhelming powers of destruction while bringing meaning and value to the world, whose actions are of consequence, and whose dreams are the vanguard of things to come.

Story Hack Action & Adventure, Issue Four (August 2019)

Julie Frost, Bryce Beattie, Sidney Blaylock Jr., Spencer E. Hart, Jason Restrick, Brandon Barrows, Misha Burnett, Jon Mollison, John M. Olsen, and Damascus Mincemeyer. Edited by Bryce Beattie.

StoryHack, Issue Four features 10 past favorite and new authors of furious adventure. Stories include the sudden invasion of dragons in postwar Colorado to an underground duel with unexpected twists and a werewolf in space escaping the confines of Earth−where the moon is always full.

“Visually appealing with its vivid cover art and individual story artwork. This issue boasts a deep roster of good stories.” —Amazon Reviewer

Tales from the Inner City

Shaun Tan

A collection of incredibly original stories that are strangely moving and rich with feeling. The artwork is like walking into an amazing room and then throwing open a curtain to see a brilliant scene that makes you appreciate everything you’ve encountered more deeply.

“The paintings are characterized by layers of glorious color, shadowy corners, dazzling luminosity, surreal situations, and ethereal beauty. They invite lingering. Read and reread slowly, savoring every nugget.” —Kirkus Reviews, starred review

Ten Thousand Thunders

Brian Trent

InterPlanetary Council puts investigator Gethin Bryce to the task of uncovering the truth behind unexplained anomalies that lie outside their control. His investigation takes him from the battered Wastelands beyond civilization’s protection to the luxurious enclaves of Earth’s elite. He befriends a reluctant outlander who has an important piece of the puzzle—evidence of a sadistic entity which threatens not just civilization, but all life.

“Ten Thousand Thunders is a thrilling science-fiction adventure from first page to last; Brian Trent is one of our very best new writers and now’s the time to start reading him.” —Robert J. Sawyer, author of Flashforward

Terra! Tara! Terror! (Third Flatiron Anthologies)

Wulf Moon, Robert Silverberg, Salinda Tyson, Marie Vibbert, Jen Downes, Evelyn Deshane, John Paul Davies, Steven Mathes, Diane Morrison, E.M. Sheehan, Michele Baron, Liam Hogan, Stefon Mears, K.G. Anderson, Kelly A. Harmon, Matthew Reardon, Samuel Chapman, Emmett Schlenz, Gustavo Bondoni, Melanie Rees, Kiki Gonglewski, Caroline Sciriha, Dan Micklethwaite, Rhonda Eikamp, Blake Jessop, Elizabeth Twist, Josh Taylor, and Juliana Rew (editor)

Third Flatiron’s new anthology, Terra! Tara! Terror! takes you on an atmospheric journey through the realms of speculative fiction: from Fae to a cabin in the woods, and to a tomb by the sounding sea, savor its mixture of dark and playful themes, fantastical elements, and mystery. Also included is Critters Award-winning “War Dog” by Wulf Moon. This is an original collection of science fiction, fantasy, humor, and horror.

“The stories are clever, the editing perfect, and the authors are superb writers. You will read it from cover to cover.” —Amazon Reviewer

Terran Tomorrow: Yesterday’s Kin Trilogy Book 3

Nancy Kress

Due to the transit time lapse, twenty-eight-years pass before the disastrous diplomatic mission returns to Earth from World. There are only a few million survivors in the aftermath of the spore plague cloud, and the knowledge brought back by Marianne Jenner and her staff are the only hope in turning the tide of this overwhelming biological warfare.

“Kress mixes contemporary issues of isolationism and refugee status with classic SF first-contact tropes, threaded neatly with solid scientific theory and speculation.” —Publishers Weekly (starred review)

They Promised Me the Gun Wasn’t Loaded

James Alan Gardner

Just days after a freak accident grants superhuman powers to Jools and her friends, they are on the hunt for a mad genius’s misplaced super-weapon. Jools falls in with a modern-day Robin Hood and his band of super-powered Merry Men, and soon realizes the line between the good guys and bad guys, is no longer clear—or on which side she truly belongs. Especially since nobody knows exactly what the super-weapon gun does.

“This book is packed with fun action, intelligent plotting, and likable characters.” —Amazon Reviewer

A Town Divided by Christmas

Orson Scott Card

The quarrel over which newborn would be the baby Jesus in the Christmas pageant tore the town apart. Some decades later, a small-town genetic study being done by two scientists, runs directly up against the invisible walls that split the leading citizens into two congregations. The only way to join them is through love and forgiveness … and maybe a little deception—there are a few things that people just don’t need to know.

“Quirky enough to be thoroughly entertaining.” —Greensboro News and Record

Trace the Stars (LTUE Benefit Anthologies Book 1)

Kevin J. Anderson, Brad R. Torgersen, Eric James Stone, David Farland, Wulf Moon, Julia H. West, Joe Monson, Nancy Fulda, Sandra Tayler, M.K. Hutchins, Daniel Friend, Emily Martha Sorensen, John M. Olsen, James Wymore, Eric G. Swedin, Paul Genesse, Beth Buck, and Jaleta Clegg (editor)

Trace the Stars was created in honor of Marion K. “Doc” Smith, the original faculty mentor behind the creation of Life, the Universe, and Everything (LTUE), the annual science fiction and fantasy academic symposium. These exciting hard science fiction and space opera stories include a consultant who discovers how to communicate effectively with ancient, alien beings, a human becomes a hero for his actions … after his death, hard choices that must be made to save loved ones, when insanity becomes an asset in trying to prevent imminent death, and many, many more amazing stories. Proceeds support their mission of educating writers, artists, and editors to become successful in the speculative fiction field.

Tribulation (Arize Trilogy, book 3)

Scott Nicholson

Dr. Meg Perriman and her allies plan to infiltrate Promiseland and expose the oppressive Rev. Cameron Ingram, who has risen as the world leader in the wake of a zombie outbreak. But first they must get there through hostile wasteland and evade Ingram’s deadly army. And they soon discover it’s not so easy to kill a king—especially one that’s no longer human.

“Always surprises and always entertains.” —Jonathan Maberry, V-Wars

Trouble in the Wind (The Phases of Mars Book 3)

Brad Torgersen, Kevin J. Anderson, Chris Kennedy, James Young, Taylor Anderson, Sarah Hoyt, S.M. Stirling, Kevin Ikenberry, David Weber, Christopher Nuttall, Joelle Presby, Rob Howell, Alan William Webb, Monalisa Foster, S. Philip Bolger, Justin Watson, Peter Grant, Jan Niemczyk, and Patrick Doyle

Eighteen outstanding authors. Sixteen stories of warfare that never happened. What if Sherman had fought for the South in the U.S. Civil War? What if Germany had fought to the end in World War I? What if World War III had actually happened? Fighting Hannibal at the Battle of Cannae, to the early death of Napoleon, to scouting the bush in Angola, and more. Read on to find out what if all of these things had changed history, even if just a little.

“I could not put this book down!” —Amazon Reviewer

The Truth Undiscovered (The Golden City)

J. Kathleen Cheney

In this astounding prequel to The Golden City, The Lady was to weld the four most powerful witches in the world into a team that would investigate the Northern Portugal Special Police. However, they must first hunt for an assassin, deal with demons, and break a prison not meant for mankind.

“A wonderful addition to the Golden City series.” —Amazon Reviewer

Twisted Fairy Tales

Doug C. Souza, Mary E. Merrell, S.A. Stovall, Tiffany O’Haro, Dana Ardis, and B.B. Swann

The Aeon Writers Group proudly presents Twisted Fairy Tales, original works that make you fall in love these timeless classics all over again. Time-honored fairy tales have reversed their roles in these twisted versions of the classics. Some are in space, others in the modern world, somewhere the villains are the heroes, and one where the wicked witch is not so wicked. Rediscover the magic from a new perspective.

Undercurrents: An Anthology of What Lies Beneath

Ken Scholes, Brian Herbert & Kevin J. Anderson, Robert Jordan & Brandon Sanderson, Callie Bates, Terry Brooks, Delilah S. Dawson, Jason Denzel, David Anthony Durham, Lev Grossman, John Gwynne, Megan Lindholm (Robin Hobb), Mark Lawrence, Todd Lockwood, Seanan McGuire, Naomi Novik, Peter Orullian, Cat Rambo, Robert V.S. Redick, Scott Sigler, Anna Smith Spark, Shawn Speakman, Anna Stephens, Patrick Swenson, Ramon Terrell, Marc Turner, Carrie Vaughn, Tad Williams, and Deborah A. Wolf

From chilling ghost stories to the Magicians’ world, from Osten Ard in an epic first look at the Empire of Grass to the desert planet Dune. Travel the Ways in a new Wheel of Time novella then enter the amazing potter city of Seven, and many more. Fettered III sales support SF&F artists and authors with medical expenses.

“Top notch fantasy anthology. Heart and optimism—with the gift of each other’s care and love, we can triumph. Very much a worthwhile read.” —Amazon Reviewer

Unfettered III: New Tales by Masters of Fantasy

Jody Lynn Nye, Kevin J. Anderson, Rebecca Moesta, Kary English, L.D. Colter, Steve Pantazis, Terry Madden, Lisa Mangum, Jessica Guernsey, Kristin Luna, Chris Mandeville, Lauren A. Lang, and Joy Dawn Johnson

Twelve short stories capturing the essence of what lies beneath. Creatures of classic mythology, mermaids, sirens, and sea serpents, swim alongside more unusual beasts, including underwater cats and singing whirlpools. A giant Kraken rules the deepest ocean. The smallest puffer fish creates intricate works of underwater art. Stories that dive deep into the fears, losses, death, and physical or emotional danger that we bury beneath the surface. When these fears rise up and threaten to consume us, we must make a choice: be conquered or conquer the fear.

“Full of fascinating, imaginative, and thrilling stories. Some of them are incredibly dark. Some are profoundly hopeful. And some are just weird and thought-provoking.” —Amazon Reviewer

A Wasteland of My God’s Own Making: A Shattered Sands Novella

Bradley P. Beaulieu

With dark shameful secrets behind her, Djaga creates a new life in the Sharakhai fighting pits, rising as the famed Lion of Kundhun. However, her sister Afua tracks her down and threatens to reveal her past, which would not only ruin her new life but shatter the relationship with her new companion. Can Djaga face her past? And if she does, will she lose the one she loves?

“An exceedingly inventive story.” —Glen Cook, author of Chronicles of the Black Company

While Gods Sleep

L.D. Colter and Trevor Smith (Cover art)

Dive head-first into a 1950s Greece where conjoined queens rule a nation perched above an underworld filled with monsters and demigods, and a mortal man holds the key to the fate of the gods. After playing an ancient game of throwing bones, Ty quickly finds himself deeply in debt. To repay this debt, he is forced to descend to the mid-world of Erebus with sleeping gods, the factions that seek to control them, and a powerful enemy that may destroy them all.

“A suspenseful plot. Fans of Greek myths and celestial fantasy will root for Ty and eagerly await more adventures in this polished world.” —Publishers Weekly

Wyvern’s Creed (Twin Soul Series Book 15)

Todd McCaffrey and the Winner Twins (Brit and Brianna Winner)

The first victory in King Markel’s war has been won, but all is not well with his men—the cavalry has no hay to feed the horses in the freezing winter. Meanwhile, Vistos has created evil magic to enslave and control. Skara Ningan and Thomas Walpish barely survived Vistos’ attack with the aid of the gods and now they are sworn to avenge themselves and destroy him. But how? Where can Skara and Thomas turn for help?

Winter Wyvern is Book 1of the series.

Xeelee: Redemption

Stephen Baxter

Michael Poole finds himself in a very strange landscape—the center of the Galaxy. The Xeelee have had time to build an immense structure here, without war or interference from humans. The Xeelee Belt has a radius ten thousand times Earth’s orbital distance, and its purpose is to preserve a community of Xeelee into the very far future. Poole and his party must explore the artifact and survive encounters with its alien inhabitants, before he, at last, finds the Xeelee who led to the destruction of Earth.

“A sense of grandeur few other SF novelists can even hope to match.” ―SFX Magazine