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Early Adopter
Early Adopter is a captivating collection of eight short stories that take a hard look at the promises and pitfalls of human progress. Drew Harrison weaves thought-provoking sci-fi narratives, each story holding a dark mirror to our present-day world. The collection blends technologic tragedy, unsettling what-ifs, and pulse-pounding thrillers, all set at the brink of our ever-accelerating future. From a high-stakes medical experiment to the creation of a hive mind and an AI love story that tests reality itself, this book pulls readers into a whirlwind of emotions and ethical dilemmas.
Early Adopter straddles the realms of science fiction and, at times, dips into the unsettling tones of horror, reminiscent of H.G. Wells and Richard Matheson. The stories vary in tone: some carry a hopeful outlook, while others are imbued with a sense of dread. Yet, they all circle back to a central theme, our intricate, often fraught relationship with technology. Among the standout stories is “To Run Again,” where a doctor discovers what she believes to be the ultimate remedy for neurodegenerative diseases. Predictably, the cure spirals into unforeseen territory, shocking both the doctor and her subject. Harrison’s perspective on technological advancement is intriguingly ambivalent. The author expertly builds the tension, and you can’t help but feel dread as you wonder what happens when science overreaches its limits. It’s a sharp commentary on the thin line between medical marvel and nightmare. Harrison captures the confusion and loss of individuality, and I couldn’t stop thinking about the cost of unity versus the value of individual human will. The stakes are sky-high, and the pacing makes you feel the urgency right alongside the characters. Harrison masterfully blurs the lines between human connection and synthetic love. The writing makes you question where reality ends and self-deception begins, and it left me feeling both intrigued and uneasy. It’s a sobering look at how close we might be to choosing simulated comfort over genuine, messy human relationships.
Early Adopter is a great audiobook for fans of sci-fi that digs deep. Harrison’s writing pulls no punches, and each story brings up questions that stick with you long after you’ve finished. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast or someone skeptical of where humanity is headed, there’s something in this collection for you. The stories are unsettling, exhilarating, and sometimes devastating, but always thought-provoking. If you like your sci-fi with a dark edge and plenty of heart-pounding moments, this audiobook won’t disappoint.
Pages: 352 | ASIN : B0CP1W4JVB
The INCARNEX Compound
Eight years ago, David Harris engineered a groundbreaking compound to defy death itself. Eight years ago, he and his twin sister perished in a tragic accident. Now, David wakes up—handcuffed to a bed in a world unrecognizable. The once-promising INCARNEX, his revolutionary cure for mortality, has spiraled into failure, plunging society into chaos. As time runs out, David must race to undo the damage he’s unleashed. With countless lives hanging in the balance and danger lurking everywhere, he faces a chilling reality: he doesn’t know who to trust, and every second counts.
The INCARNEX Compound by A.J. Roe is an electrifying dystopian sci-fi novel that follows David Harris on his heart-pounding journey to make amends for his catastrophic mistake. Roe crafts a riveting story that refuses to let up. David’s perspective captivates readers, drawing them into his internal struggle while keeping the tension high. His relatability adds depth to the narrative, making his fight to correct his past all the more compelling. Even the side characters shine, each layered with intrigue and unpredictability, keeping readers guessing at every turn. The plot is a whirlwind—packed with suspense, action, and moments of genuine surprise. Roe’s storytelling never loses momentum, offering a relentless pace that ensures there’s no room for boredom. The novel consistently challenges expectations, keeping the audience engaged and hungry for answers. The intricate web of trust and deception is masterfully crafted, and the thrill of discovery is palpable throughout.
For fans of dystopian sci-fi, The INCARNEX Compound is an absolute must-read. A.J. Roe delivers a well-written, gripping tale that is nearly impossible to put down. His ability to balance fast-paced action with thought-provoking themes is exceptional, making the book both exciting and intellectually satisfying. Roe keeps readers questioning everything, while his knack for narrative twists keeps anticipation high. This novel is an exhilarating ride from start to finish, and I’m eagerly awaiting what Roe has in store next.
Pages: 347 | ASIN : B0D11B92SB
Kalani: Shadows of Destiny
Jolene Fine’s Kalani: Shadows of Destiny launches her Fostering Worlds series with remarkable flair. This ambitious fantasy debut delivers a rich tapestry of complex characters, high-stakes struggles, and deeply immersive world-building. Kalani, a planet ruled by god-like figures, brims with intrigue and conflict, with every corner of its beautifully mapped terrain promising readers a thrilling adventure. Fine’s storytelling will make you laugh, cry, and stay invested in each twist as you journey through this fascinating new world.
The novel centers on two main characters, Zach and Desiree, who navigate Kalani’s world of immortals. Kalani’s inhabitants are divided into two classes: the Lambients and the Watchers. Fine masterfully introduces readers to this world’s structure, where advanced technology meets a unique social order from the very first page.
The author’s emotional writing style makes it easy to connect with the characters as they grapple with belonging and identity in a complex and vividly imagined society. Zach, yearning for his girlfriend Gretchen back on his home planet Therma, petitions Kalani’s spiritual leaders, hoping for any chance to communicate with her. Meanwhile, Desiree, an outsider, finds herself pulled toward Kalani’s deeper mysteries, her drive for knowledge propelling her into powerful but dangerous territory.
Fine builds suspense masterfully, creating a world where every choice holds weight. Zach and Desiree encounter mystical barriers and god-like rulers, with each encounter steeped in high drama and tension. Their inner conflicts bring as much depth to the story as the fantastical elements, weaving a narrative that explores love, existential longing, and personal destiny. The world of Kalani feels simultaneously vast and intimate, with each page building anticipation and excitement.
I’d highly recommend Kalani: Shadows of Destiny to fans of character-driven fantasy and those who enjoy exploring dystopian worlds. For anyone new to fantasy, this novel is an excellent entry point, offering a story that balances rich world-building with genuine emotional resonance.
Pages: 314 | ASIN : B0CCZHY41R
First Passage
First Passage, by Morgan Fitzgerald-Lorah, is a captivating Fantasy Sci-Fi novel that grips you from the first page and refuses to let go. The story follows Nathan, a young magic user and inventor navigating life in the bleak future of the Dark Zone. His journey is fraught with peril, from betrayal in shadowy alleyways to brutal fights and deadly magic. At its heart, Nathan’s quest is one of self-discovery—seeking the truth about his origins and the reasons behind his unique abilities. Alongside him are his enigmatic mentor, Grant, and his steadfast friends, who do everything they can to keep him alive. With time running out, Nathan must uncover why he is being hunted before it’s too late.
As Nathan’s past begins to surface, readers are left wondering: will the guidance of his mentor, and the support of his loyal companions—Mark, his trusty sidekick, and Lily, the healer—be enough to save him? The action is relentless, with heart-pounding fight scenes that keep the pages turning. Fitzgerald-Lorah’s vivid descriptions paint a violent and unforgiving dystopian world, but she balances it perfectly with the emotional growth of her characters and the deep bonds they share. The quirky, dynamic cast surrounding Nathan adds both depth and humor, while his backstory of trauma and resilience makes him an inspiring protagonist to root for.
For fans of novels that are a thrilling blend of fantasy and science fiction, First Passage delivers an exhilarating adventure with a hero worth cheering for. It is worth noting that some key scenes felt somewhat rushed. I would have liked to have seen a little more detail and depth in these cases. The overall story remains compelling with an engaging plot and a memorable cast of characters.
First Passage is the kind of book that leaves you wishing it were longer, eager to dive deeper into the world Fitzgerald-Lorah has created. In the end, First Passage is an exciting introduction to what promises to be a fantastic saga, and I can’t wait to read the next installment.
Pages: 178 | ASIN : B0CG9YDZRG
Silence
Silence, by Che De Leon, is a gripping dystopian novel set in a world where society is starkly divided into the Complete and the Incomplete. The chasm between these two groups has never been wider, with desperation and greed ruling the day. The black market thrives, as the wealthy treat body parts like fashion accessories, swapping them at will. Amidst this chaotic world, we meet Lily—the girl with no tongue. In this brutal reality, De Leon explores the fragility of humanity. Can a world built on violence, theft, and survival possibly change? Is there room to dream of something better, or is hope a luxury no one can afford? These questions are at the heart of Lily’s journey, as she navigates a life torn between the past and the present.
The novel alternates between two timelines, reflecting Lily’s dual existence. In one, she recalls her seemingly idyllic childhood in a quiet seaside village, where she still had her tongue and a sense of belonging. In the other, we see her in the bustling, cutthroat City, where survival means becoming Complete again—no matter the cost. Lured by a mysterious girl in an ugly sweater who offers promises of fulfillment, Lily embarks on a dangerous quest, learning how to navigate a society that treats her as inferior. Along the way, she meets others like her, who teach her the skills needed to survive in the cruel and unforgiving City. She also faces tormentors, individuals who challenge her dignity and pride, testing her will to continue. As Lily struggles to come to terms with all that she has lost—her body, her identity, and perhaps her hope—De Leon’s storytelling shines.
The author weaves a complex narrative that is as emotionally resonant as it is darkly imaginative. Lily’s internal battle mirrors the external conflict in this fractured world, making her story both deeply personal and universally relatable. De Leon’s voice is both distinct and powerful, offering readers an unflinching look at themes of survival, identity, and resilience.
The lessons embedded in Lily’s journey transcend the dystopian setting, speaking to readers of all backgrounds, regardless of race, gender, or age. While set in an alternate reality, the novel strikes an eerie chord, suggesting that this world may not be as far from our own as we would like to believe.
Silence is not just a tale of a girl trying to reclaim what was taken from her. It is a reflection on human nature and the lengths to which individuals will go to feel whole again. De Leon’s masterful storytelling and richly drawn world make this a novel that lingers long after the final page, challenging readers to think about what it means to be complete in a world that feels so broken.
Pages: 225 | ASIN : B0D88K98TR
The Boy Who Learned to Live
The Boy Who Learned to Live, by D.N. Moore, is a gripping dystopian novel set in the year 2085, centering around a boy named Oliver McNeil who escapes the highly controlled, artificial environment of City 5. As Oliver navigates the wilderness beyond the city, he encounters a group of people living off the grid, far removed from the simulated, sterile life he’s known. The book explores Oliver’s psychological struggles, his withdrawal from medication, and his search for a deeper sense of reality. As he confronts the rawness of this new world, the story grapples with questions of identity, freedom, and what it really means to live.
Moore’s writing style is vivid and immersive, especially in the way she describes Oliver’s disorientation in the beginning. The prose has a dreamlike quality, reflecting Oliver’s fragile mental state as he moves from the highly medicated, simulated city life into the wild unknown. Oliver’s confusion is sharply illustrated in the opening scene when he questions if the world around him is a black-and-white movie. This surreal narration effectively draws the reader into his headspace. What stood out most to me was the tension between the simulated world and the raw, unpredictable wilderness Oliver is thrust into. The idea that society has retreated so far into artificial comfort, leaving behind the very essence of what it means to be human, is haunting. When Oliver struggles to explain “sims”—the all-encompassing simulations used for school, exercise, and even socializing—to Autumn, one of the characters who helps him, it’s a chilling reminder of how disconnected people in the city have become from reality. Moore does a great job of making the reader feel the weight of this disconnection.
The relationship that builds between Oliver and Autumn’s family is complex, full of mistrust, and laden with Oliver’s fears about being a danger to others. There’s a poignant moment when Oliver, feeling unworthy of their help, asks to be put in a holding cell. It captures how deeply entrenched his sense of helplessness is. But it’s also these human connections that push him forward. The emotional beats are handled well, especially the way Oliver’s interactions with the younger children, like Jesse, reveal a softer, more vulnerable side of him.
The Boy Who Learned to Live is a thought-provoking novel that delves into timely themes of isolation, the consequences of over-reliance on technology, and the rediscovery of what it means to be alive in a world that has lost touch with its roots. The novel is perfect for readers who enjoy dystopian fiction with a psychological edge, especially those who are fans of books like The Giver or The Maze Runner. Moore’s characters are relatable and the story’s emotional core makes it worth the read.
Pages: 251 | ASIN : B0DG71BNWQ
Digger: Dig or Die!
Digger: Dig or Die!, by Deborah Cholette, is a fantasy novel for all ages. The story follows siblings Nick and Lily as they try to save their community when oxygen levels drop dangerously low. Nick’s knack for digging becomes crucial when he uncovers a hidden tunnel system that links homes, allowing people to breathe. Meanwhile, Lily uses her ingenuity to set up a network of walkie-talkies and baby monitors, creating a communication lifeline as everything around them falls apart. Together, they must race against time to complete the tunnels and help their neighbors survive, battling food shortages and dwindling air supply.
I was completely hooked by the vivid dystopian world Cholette creates. Her writing pulls you into a society on the brink of collapse, where every act of resourcefulness and hope feels like a lifeline. From the start, I was captivated by the courage and creativity of the siblings as they faced down a disaster. Nick’s digging skills and Lily’s clever communication system were not just interesting—they were integral to the plot and made the survival story even more exciting.
What really stood out to me was how authentic Nick and Lily felt; they weren’t simply young heroes, they were real kids doing whatever they could to protect the people they loved. The high stakes and tension kept me turning pages, eager to see how they would pull through. One of the best things about this book is how it balances intensity with heart. I loved it so much that I shared it with my nieces, and they were equally absorbed by the siblings’ cleverness and the fast-paced struggle against the clock. It’s hard to find a dystopian tale that feels both thrilling and heartwarming, but this one managed to hit every emotional note perfectly.
Deborah Cholette’s Digger: Dig or Die! is a must-read for anyone looking for a story that combines suspense and ingenuity with hope. I highly recommend it for both children and adults who want an adventure filled with danger, heart, and a fierce drive to survive.
Pages: 240 | ISBN : 164371399X
He Died Two Days Ago
He Died Two Days Ago by John Posner is a captivating blend of science fiction and fantasy that centers on twins Nick and Tony, who discover they are hosts to alien entities known as Ephemerals. These beings secretly inhabit humans and other creatures, feeding off the emotions of their hosts. The plot thickens when assassins, sent by a mobster kingpin, mistakenly kill Nick instead of Tony after Tony steals Sylvia, the kingpin’s girlfriend. From there, all three find themselves entangled in the power struggles between warring Ephemeral clans.
One of the novel’s strengths is its immersive introduction to the world of the Ephemerals. I was intrigued by the glimpse into their culture as they struggle over who will inherit a new world. The pacing and detail of this portion of the story were just right, allowing me to become invested in these alien beings without feeling overwhelmed. In fact, I wished we could have stayed longer in their world, as it was one of the more compelling aspects of the novel. The transition to Nick’s storyline, while necessary, shifted the narrative in a way that felt quick. That said, the idea of the Ephemerals having the power to heal a dying person added a fascinating dimension.
Nick and Tony’s predicament of getting caught in a tangled web of crime, betrayal, and alien interference felt grounded and realistic. I appreciated the authenticity in Nick’s reaction to being shot, which added depth to his character. I loved Nick and Tony and I wanted their backstory to be fleshed out more. Similarly, Sylvia’s fate, while rooted in real-world circumstances, was introduced abruptly, and I would have loved to have spent more time with her. And after Artemesia, the High Priestess of the Xemegan clan, was introduced, I would have preferred to see other traits or characteristics that made her memorable.
Still, the book’s deeper themes, like identity, control, and the influence of outside forces on our decisions, are compelling. The relationship between Nick and his twin brother Tony and how they’ve been manipulated by their respective aliens adds emotional depth to the narrative.
He Died Two Days Ago is a gritty and action-packed read that blends science fiction and thriller with surprising emotional depth. Fans of dystopian thrillers and speculative sci-fi will enjoy this for its original premise and intense action. If you’re into deep space adventures with a heavy dose of psychological tension, this one’s for you.
Pages: 352 | ASIN : B0D79NBGDM
LITERARY TITAN 