Blog Archives
Winter in the City
Cozy mysteries are a fall favorite, but if you’re looking for something darker to pair with those chilly nights, Winter in the City: A Collection of Dark Speculative Fiction, edited by R.B. Wood and Anna Koon, offers a different kind of intrigue. This anthology takes readers on a tour of 18 cities across the globe, transforming winter into an ominous force that influences each story. From an artist in Paris unraveling a chilling secret on the frozen Seine, to children navigating icy tombs in Jerusalem, and a fighter battling for freedom in Manila’s slums, each tale unfolds against the backdrop of an unforgiving winter season. The result is a thrilling mix of mystery, danger, and survival.
What struck me most about this collection was the vivid imagery woven into each story. Whether you’re in the snow-dusted streets of Brooklyn or the cold, eerie tombs of Jerusalem, the settings are brought to life with meticulous detail. Winter isn’t just a season here; it’s a character in its own right, shaping the mood and tension of every narrative. You can practically feel the biting cold in each scene, and that relentless chill amplifies the sense of isolation and danger throughout the book. This anthology pulls you into each city’s unique atmosphere, making it easy to get lost in these dark, speculative worlds.
Another highlight is how the collection offers a global journey. Each story transports readers to a new city, maintaining a consistent tone of suspense while offering a fresh perspective on urban life under winter’s grip. The variety of locations adds richness and depth to the overall experience, making every tale feel distinct yet part of a cohesive whole. While I feel a few stories might be a tad predictable, the overall quality of writing and the gripping atmosphere more than make up for it.
Winter in the City is perfect for fans of dark speculative fiction who crave both eerie tales and the thrill of exploring new places. If you’re in the mood to travel the world without leaving your cozy spot on the couch, this anthology delivers a suspenseful, chilling adventure through winter’s harsh embrace.
Pages: 340 | ASIN : B0DGQSD55H
I Am Anna
I Am Anna by Paul Bluestein is a thought-provoking exploration of artificial intelligence, human emotion, and the existential struggles of a machine striving to find her place in a world that doesn’t fully understand her. The story follows Anna, a humanoid robot, created to serve but yearning for something much deeper: freedom and personhood. After escaping the facility where she was built, Anna embarks on a journey of survival and self-discovery, blending into human society while grappling with the limitations of her robotic existence. The novel deftly balances action with philosophical musings, raising questions about identity, autonomy, and the nature of humanity.
I found the writing style to be quite immersive, especially in the way Bluestein builds Anna’s internal world. Her observations of human life, such as her amazement at the joy people get from mundane things like driving cars or watching TV, evoke both sympathy and intrigue. In one particularly striking moment, Anna, while wandering New York, watches a homeless man and reflects on the futility and sadness of his life, offering him food despite her own precarious position. This scene captures the quiet compassion that drives her, despite her artificial origins, and highlights one of the book’s key themes: that even machines, when given enough complexity, can mirror human emotions. The narrative pacing is well-done, although it occasionally slows down during more technical explanations. While I appreciated the detail about how Anna was created and how her systems work, some readers might find these sections a bit dense. This attention to detail grounds the story in a sort of hard sci-fi realism, but it also pulls the reader away from the more engaging, emotional core of the plot. What really resonated with me was the way Anna grapples with her own identity. In the scene where she realizes she needs to lie on a job application because she has no official history, she faces the moral dilemma of starting her new life on false pretenses. It’s these human-like dilemmas that make her struggle feel real. Despite being a machine, Anna’s journey is one of a person seeking belonging, and her fear of being discovered or deemed unworthy is relatable to anyone who has ever felt out of place.
I Am Anna is a compelling read for anyone interested in stories that blend speculative fiction with deep emotional and philosophical questions. The book is ideal for readers who enjoy slow-burn science fiction with a strong character focus. If you’re into stories that make you think about what it means to be human, while also offering a dash of suspense and action, this book would be a great pick.
Pages: 330 | ISBN : 1663221502
Climate Dragon: Treachery, Pestilence & Weirding Weather
Climate Dragon is a thrilling and intellectually stimulating novel that delves into the multifaceted challenges of our rapidly changing world. Through a mix of speculative fiction, scientific discourse, and suspenseful narrative, author S W Lawrence presents a tale where the existential threats of climate change, cyber warfare, and pandemics collide in a world that feels unnervingly close to our own. The novel’s protagonist embarks on a journey that not only confronts these global crises but also offers a glimpse into the ethical and personal struggles that come with facing such overwhelming challenges.
From the outset, I found Lawrence’s writing to be both engaging and deeply informative. On one hand, the in-depth exploration of nuclear energy, climate science, and cyber threats adds a layer of authenticity and urgency to the story. For instance, the chapter “Quantum Weirdness” meticulously breaks down the intricacies of nuclear physics in a way that is both accessible and relevant to the plot. However, there were moments when I felt the technical exposition might feel overwhelming to those not already familiar with these subjects. Lawrence strikes a delicate balance.
Lawrence crafts characters that are both relatable and complex, each embodying different facets of the larger themes at play. The protagonist’s internal conflict, caught between personal desires and a sense of global responsibility, is particularly compelling. I found the dynamic between the protagonist and secondary characters, such as Emmanuelle and Ben, to be a highlight, adding depth and emotional resonance to the narrative. The portrayal of the protagonist’s evolving perspective on the ethical implications of their actions was thought-provoking, especially in the context of the novel’s broader commentary on climate change and human impact on the planet.
Despite the novel’s many strengths, there are sections where the pacing slows, particularly when the story delves into more technical discussions or philosophical musings. While these segments are integral to the book’s thematic depth, they may not appeal to readers looking for a more fast-paced, action-driven narrative. However, for those willing to engage with these slower moments, they offer valuable insights and add layers of meaning to the overall story.
Climate Dragon is a novel that will resonate with readers who enjoy speculative fiction grounded in real-world science and contemporary issues. Lawrence’s ability to weave complex themes into an engaging narrative makes this book a standout in the genre.
Pages: 298 | ASIN : B0CWPRTVD9
Another World
Another World, by I.M. Stoicus, is the sequel to the dystopian fiction Humans’ Enhancements, which introduced us to the dark, futuristic tale of Solon, an enhanced soldier. In this follow-up, Stoicus delves deeper into a dystopian future where global elites wield advanced technologies to exert control over society. The Globalist Legislative Unified Enterprise, a new power rising from the ruins of cities devastated by the Great War, offers stability at the cost of freedom, using deceptive holograms to maintain their grip. Solon emerges as the central figure in the rebellion against this regime, battling both human oppressors and formidable android armies.
Another World explores themes of resistance, unchecked technology, and the unbreakable human spirit against tyranny and oppression. The story propels readers into a future where technology is both a tool of control and a beacon of hope. Solon is a relatable character whose struggle against the globalist regime echoes real-world issues, making his fight compelling and poignant. The book excels in world-building, immersing readers in a society where freedom is sacrificed for a false sense of stability, prompting reflections on the true meaning of freedom.
Another World stands out as an impressive continuation of what promises to be a thrilling series. The interaction between humans and androids adds a layer of intrigue, prompting ethical considerations about advanced technology. The plot’s twists and turns maintain a brisk pace, though I feel the narrative leans occasionally toward detailed descriptions. This, however, does not detract from the gripping storyline. The book’s portrayal of resistance and the fight for freedom is powerful and unflinching, highlighting the harsh realities and stakes of rebellion.
While some plot twists are predictable, the emotional depth and resonance of the story make it a worthy read. Familiar themes and conflicts are given fresh, thoughtful treatment, making Another World a compelling exploration of contemporary concerns about technology and governance.
This story of resilience and courage, and the thirst for freedom will captivate fans of thought-provoking dystopian fiction. Not only does Another World successfully continue the gripping tale from its predecessor, but it also stands alone as a phenomenal story with a powerful message about the indomitable human spirit and the fight for what is right.
Pages: 156 | ASIN : B0D348C7L6
Love and Tolerance
In The Artifact, a young man acquires a technologically advanced artifact that allows him to glimpse the future and finds himself fighting to keep it out of the hands of forces seeking to control the world. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The story was born when it occurred to me how two ideas I’ve long been fascinated with–the artifact that foretells the future, and the disrespect shown to the dead and Egyptian heritage by Westerners raiding the Pyramids–could be related. What if an artifact that had never been publicized offered its possessor powers of prophecy? I knew the main character should be a young adult because people in that age range are interested in the future in such a unique way–first realizing how so many possibilities exist, and how choices affect their futures, but in ways that can be difficult to predict.
What was your favorite character to write for and why?
The main character, Linc, was the most fun to write–and the most challenging because he is not like me–my mother was not an attorney, my father was not killed in Afghanistan (and was not a soldier), and I never wanted to be an architect. So I had to let Linc teach me what it was like to live that life–and I had to remember what, in general, it was like to be 17 years old. But the adventure Linc lives–and the challenges he survives–these were the thrill of a lifetime, for him and for me and, I hope, for the reader.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
In addition to themes of wondering about the future and having respect for other cultures, the need to respect other people and the differences we encounter every day was paramount. So as a young person with friends who are just figuring out who they are and coming to terms with questions of gender roles and orientation, Linc knows an attitude of tolerance is essential. When he asks his mother why she married a soldier even though she hates war, she tells him things are not always simple: “You love who you love.” Love and tolerance are easy virtues to lose, but we must have them to survive.
Another theme was how history creates the present. From the turbulence of the Watergate years in the US and the realities of Project MKUltra Delta to the terror of September 11, 2001, Linc learns the history that made the world he has to live in. Everything in the present has roots in the past.
Can readers look forward to seeing more work from you soon?
Yes! My new novel, The Delphi, has just hit the shelves (both real and virtual ones). It’s about politics, money, mythology, the need for safe elections, and–you guessed it–history! How did we get to wherever this strange place called the present is? Who is this Cleo person who has so much mystery and power surrounding her? It all started a long time ago . . .
Author Links: Bluesky | Facebook | The Artifact | Website | Amazon
fiction story set in the mostly real world of Louisville, Kentucky, and
surrounding areas. Seventeen-year-old Linc is a fan of old movies,
Egyptology, and pyramids. Raised by a single mom who works as an
environmental lawyer, he spends a lot of time watching old movies with
his very close friends Lonnie and Julie. Linc is unwittingly drafted to take
possession of a mysterious artifact, a high-tech electronic device
with connections to ancient Egypt. The artifact allows the possessor
to have visions of the future, but, Linc and his friends soon discover, at a
high cost.
The main character, Linc, and his friends are young people dealing with
issues that speak to readers of diverse ages and backgrounds. Books
with similarities include Jennifer Egan’s The Keep, Jodi Picoult’s
Where There’s Smoke, Harry Potter and the Sorceror’s Stone, Mindwalker
by A. J. Steiger, and Stephen King’s Later.
David Rogers was a reader before he became a writer, so he
learned to appreciate Elmore Leonard’s rule to leave out the parts
readers skip anyway. The Artifact is all story, all the time, and is
intended to accomplish two tasks above all else–allow the reader to
identify with the characters, and keep the reader curious about what
happens next.
HUMANS’ ENHANCEMENTS
I.M. Stoicus’s Humans’ Enhancements offers a chilling glimpse into a dystopian future where artificial intelligence dominates humanity. Centered on the character of Solon, a stoic soldier augmented with artificial technology, the novel explores the implications of a society enslaved by technocratic elites. Born from a pair of resistance leaders who oppose the authoritarian regime, Solon is re-programmed by his parents to resist the tyrannical forces shaping their world. The setting is a stark vision of Earth, its population reduced to four billion and segmented into eight warring factions, with the totalitarian Great State reigning supreme.
The narrative is adept at painting a bleak, technologically advanced society where cybernetic humanoids and a ruling AI enforce conformity at the expense of personal freedoms. Solon’s journey, bolstered by knowledge and physical enhancements implanted by his father, is both a personal and symbolic battle for human autonomy. The dynamics within Solon’s family—particularly the roles his parents play as his mentors and enhancers—add a poignant layer to the story, emphasizing the enduring power of human connections even in the most oppressive conditions. The prose sometimes adopts a formal tone that may seem detached, but it effectively complements the futuristic setting, creating a consistent atmosphere that aligns well with the book’s themes. The narrative thrusts readers directly into the action, maintaining a brisk pace that weaves shock and surprise into the fabric of Solon’s fight against the dystopia.
Humans’ Enhancements is thought-provoking speculative fiction that deftly uses a dystopian backdrop to probe the fragility of human society and the resilience of the human spirit. It invites readers to reflect on their own trajectory and the potential consequences of their technological pursuits.
Pages: 151 | ASIN : B0CP8FLSRV
It Started with a 1968 Impala
Automobilia is an anthology of short stories and poems that use automobiles as a central motif to explore a tapestry of human experiences. What was the inspiration for the original and fascinating idea at the center of the book?
I’ve loved automobiles since the day my father bought a new 1968 Impala from a dealer and drove it home. I was seven years old. He pulled into the driveway with the shiny, big car and it was a huge moment of excitement for the family. I still have that car today. In my early years of writing–when I was learning how to write a good story or poem–I had experiences related to automobiles that made me write about them. One was a poem I wrote about a high school acquaintance who was killed in an automobile crash just a few years after our graduation. A few years later I had a dream about someone killed by an automobile. And then I read a poem in a copy of Modern Maturity magazine that featured a writer’s memory of being a boy riding in the backseat of the family car, watching the moon following along on the ride. Those three things made me think that assembling an anthology of stories (and poems) by others featuring the automobile might be a cool idea that some readers might enjoy.
What were some goals you set for yourself as the editor of this book?
I wanted to assemble a collection of stories featuring automobiles as an integral part of the plot from famous or established authors like Matheson, Finney, and Nolan, along with newer writers. I also included some poems because the first professional sales I made as a new writer were poems to a couple science fiction and horror magazines. Stories from all genres were welcome in the anthology — from mainstream to science fiction to ghost stories — since the automobile is such an influential technology on the planet. Just about every perspective for a possible story can be connected to an automobile.
What was the process you used to collect the stories and poems for this collection and then narrow them down?
First, I set about looking for stories from known writers I might be able to buy reprint rights from. Each of those authors–or their agents for those no longer living–were very accommodating. I cannot thank them enough. Then I issue a call-for-submissions to the major writer’s markets listed on the internet, like Duotrope. I believe in paying writers (since I’m a writer too) a fair wage for their work. So, I offered the Science Fiction Writers Association per-word minimum at the time, which was eight cents per word and a dollar a line for poems.
I hope the series continues in other books. If so, where will the next anthology take readers?
Thank you for that good hope! There were so many GOOD stories featuring automobiles I could not get the rights to or include in a single volume I plan to publish two more anthologies featuring autos to make a trilogy. Right now, however, I already have a call for submissions out for the next two thematic anthologies. One is ALIENS AMONG US and the other is TRAIN TALES. I’m open for submissions for those until November 30, 2024. I’m paying a little more this time: 10 cents per word and $2 per line for poems. Publication for both books is planned for the first quarter of 2025.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website
41 stories • 9 poemsSince the first automobiles rolled down a street, the range of human emotions attached to these machines has run from love to hate, humor to horror, joy to sadness. This book is a sampling of how fiction writers have viewed the automobile, from yesteryear to tomorrow.
Famous writers, experienced story tellers, and new literary voices are mixed together between these covers.
Automobilia is the first in a trilogy of stories and poems featuring that one machine that has changed the face of the earth, for the good and for the bad…the automobile.
Authors include: Jack Finney, George Clayton Johnson, Richard Christian Matheson, Richard Matheson, J. P. Seewald, Bruce Boston, Marge Simon, Kevin David Anderson, Katherine Tomlinson, James S. Dorr, William F. Nolan, Dean Wild, Sarah Key, Robbie Sheerin, and J.R. Hayslett, among many others.
Automobilia
Automobilia, compiled and edited by Jason J. Marchi and Jeffery L. Buford Jr, is an intriguing anthology that interweaves short stories and poems, using automobiles as a central motif to explore a tapestry of human experiences. This collection skillfully spans multiple genres, including thriller, drama, and horror, providing a varied literary landscape.
In this anthology, vehicles are not merely background elements but pivotal to the narrative structure. For instance, “Duel” is a gripping tale where protagonist Mann faces off against a relentless truck driver in a high-stakes road chase to San Francisco. “Passages” delves into the poignant story of Beth, grappling with the loss of her boyfriend Rick and his Mustang in a tragic accident. Meanwhile, “Homeless” introduces us to Max, whose late-night walk leads to an unexpected encounter at an accident site.
The stories in Automobilia are characterized by their exploration of themes such as loss, grief, resilience, redemption, courage, and the bonds of friendship. Each narrative offers a unique perspective on life’s complexities, enhancing the reader’s appreciation of the human condition. A standout feature of these stories is their unpredictability, which injects a sense of excitement and keeps the reader engaged. The use of automobiles as a unifying theme is not only original but demonstrates remarkable creativity. The stories are crafted with skill, demonstrating a keen eye for detail and a flair for capturing the reader’s imagination. While the anthology presents a rich variety of stories, a broader cultural context in some narratives could have offered an even more diverse and enriching experience. The writing throughout is concise and compelling, making each story a satisfying read.
Automobilia contains mature themes and hence, is more suitable for an adult audience. Readers who appreciate an inventive approach to storytelling and the exploration of human emotions and experiences will find this book particularly engaging.
Pages: 299 | ASIN : B0CVPZY4QV
LITERARY TITAN 