Tag: Sci-Fi

Monthly Features – April

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The Woman Who Belonged to Stone by A.M. Burke

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.

Synopsis: In the lands of Iridium magic teeters on the edge of extinction, each crumbling rune marking a tragic loss. With chaos looming, the king takes one last drastic step: outlawing magic.

Rowan used it as a golden opportunity to secure her family’s prosperity. Claiming the power, her father denied her. But, like a flickering flame, her carefully constructed plans crumble when news of her husband’s oncoming return begins to spread. Suddenly, she finds herself facing a treacherous web of diminished loyalties and a deadly threat that sets sights on her life.

Meanwhile, Noctis Telum, shattered by the prohibition, has spent years painstakingly rebuilding his shattered existence. His magic, once his lifeblood, has been cruelly denied, scattering his loved ones across the realm. Yet, with the unexpected death of his oldest friend and the enigmatic return of Delilah, Noctis must accept it’s time to reclaim his purpose and confront the ghosts of his past.

In a realm teetering on the edge of darkness, where fates intertwine amidst a world deprived of enchantment, the stage is set for redemption, treachery, and unyielding determination. Explore the depths of mysticism and discover the key to unlocking the secrets that could save a fractured world.

Summary: Overall, I am excited to see where this series goes next! If you’re a fan of fantasy, adventure, action, mystery, and magic then this book could be for you.

See the full review here: The Woman Who Belonged to Stone
Purchase here

 

Dissonance: Volume II: Reckoning by Aaron Ryan

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.

Synopsis: Sergeant Cameron “Jet” Shipley lost everyone to the gorgons and has lost faith in the integrity of his own Command. But Cameron’s loss didn’t stop there. In a world rife with apocalyptic danger, it has become painfully apparent that humanity is still, even in the very throes of annihilation, at war with itself.

Finding himself a prisoner and eventual outlaw at the hands of those whom he once trusted most, Cameron must put his fate in the hands of his trusted confidants Lieutenant Allison Trudy, Private Liam “Fox” Mayfield, and Sergeant Joseph Bassett once more, endangering their very lives and freedom, as they and others come to his aid to join in the inevitable revolt against those in power who fail to see the truth: power corrupts, even on the very brink of extinction.

Shipley and his team must race against time to find compatriots who share their views, amassing support against the true foe. All the while, they must evade a merciless alien species that will not stop until the earth’s resources are drained dry, reducing it to a barren wasteland. In their quest for truth, they must remember one simple tenet as it pertains to the gorgons:

“One look, and it’s all over.”

Summary: Overall, if you like science fiction, aliens, the battle of good vs. evil, dystopian worlds, action, and adventure, then this book could be for you! 

See the full review here: Dissonance: Volume II: Reckoning
Purchase here

 

Review: Dissonance: Volume II: Reckoning by Aaron Ryan

~ likelystory18 ~ 2 Comments

Synopsis:

Bestselling author Aaron Ryan continues the epic journey begun in Volume I in an increasingly tense post-apocalyptic landscape, set amidst a gritty, attainable future Earth in this alien invasion thriller series.

Sergeant Cameron “Jet” Shipley lost everyone to the gorgons and has lost faith in the integrity of his own Command. But Cameron’s loss didn’t stop there. In a world rife with apocalyptic danger, it has become painfully apparent that humanity is still, even in the very throes of annihilation, at war with itself.

Finding himself a prisoner and eventual outlaw at the hands of those whom he once trusted most, Cameron must put his fate in the hands of his trusted confidants Lieutenant Allison Trudy, Private Liam “Fox” Mayfield, and Sergeant Joseph Bassett once more, endangering their very lives and freedom, as they and others come to his aid to join in the inevitable revolt against those in power who fail to see the truth: power corrupts, even on the very brink of extinction.

Shipley and his team must race against time to find compatriots who share their views, amassing support against the true foe. All the while, they must evade a merciless alien species that will not stop until the earth’s resources are drained dry, reducing it to a barren wasteland. In their quest for truth, they must remember one simple tenet as it pertains to the gorgons:

“One look, and it’s all over.”

Favorite Lines:

“Oh, how I would love to call you something else.”

“My last big conversation with Ally was about justice versus revenge. Was there really any difference?”

“Revenge never leads to receiving. Revenge only ever leads to dead-ends.”

My Opinion:

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.

I had the pleasure of reviewing Ryan’s first book in this series Dissonance: Volume I:  Reality and this book picks up where the last left off which is great because it was a plot twist that I needed answers for! Sergeant Cameron “Jet” Shipley finds himself prisoner and outlaw to those he once considered to be his family. He now has to fight for his freedom and against his previously trusted Command to enlighten those that he can of the real truth: that the aliens might not be the worst thing on Earth. There are those that seek power above all and it just so happens that they are entirely  human.

This book continues to carry on a creative and well written story. Just like the first book in this series, I found myself on the edge of my seat and I loved the additional plot aspect that was introduced at the end of the last book – that sometimes humans can be our own worst enemy. So now we have aliens, people corrupt from power, and those that are just trying to survive and usher in a better world for the future. I loved it! This is book two out of three and I am of course excited to see how Ryan wraps it all up in the last book!

I feel that it is my duty to warn readers, without any spoilers, that no one is safe in this series. I should have known after book one but I didn’t take it to heart when I should have. Think Game of Thrones.

Summary:

Overall, if you like science fiction, aliens, the battle of good vs. evil, dystopian worlds, action, and adventure, then this book could be for you! Happy reading!

Dissonance: Volume II: Reckoning

 

Review: Dissonance: Volume I: Reality by Aaron Ryan

~ likelystory18 ~ 2 Comments

Synopsis:

There are some rules you never forget. Above all else, whatever you do, you never look directly at a gorgon.
Now, plug your ears… because the war for humanity has begun.

Sergeant Cameron “Jet” Shipley was there when they first arrived in 2026. For 16 long years, he learned to hide. To never make a sound. Learning the most important rule of all about the gorgons: You just… don’t… look. The year is now 2042, and humanity is eking out an existence in the shadows. Shipley and his team are sent out on a recon mission with developments that may alter the trajectory of Earth’s fate… and his own. Joined by newcomers Bassett and Trudy, Cameron and his brother Rut will have to contend with a terrifying alien species that has annihilated eighty-five percent of mankind. Will his mission lead him on a slippery slope of discovery that demands accountability? Or will it plunge humanity, and everything in it, into further dissonance?

Favorite Lines:

“The only thing worse than being angry with someone is having nowhere to go to get away from the person that you’re angry with.”

“Reality can be pretty damn painful.”

My Opinion:

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.

I grew up watching pretty much anything science fiction with my dad so when I read the synopsis for this book, I knew I had to give it a read and I was not disappointed. I think Ryan hits the nail on the head comparing this to “Alien meets the Quiet Place”. This story takes place 16 years ahead in a dystopian future. Aliens occupied Earth 16 years ago forcing any human survivors into hiding. The story centers around two brothers who grew up in this new reality and join the military. They partner with a task force of other soldiers to rescue survivors. 

I thought this was a really creative and well written story. Ryan had a very unique voice and does a great job at telling a story that will have you on the edge of your seat. I think what freaked me out the most was how realistic a future like this could be if we ever find out aliens exist. This book had my heart racing at some parts and my eyes watering at others – Ryan did a great job at keeping me invested and evoking a variety of emotions from me. There was also a huge surprise towards the end that I give kudos  to Ryan for (I won’t spoil it for future readers).

Summary:

Overall, if you like science fiction that features dystopian worlds, aliens, action, adventure, thrills, and some romance then this book could be for you! Happy reading!

Dissonance: Volume I: Reality

 

Review: The Collector by Eli Stephens

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Synopsis:

“A once believed distant past returns for Collector Karson. With possessing the only license accepted galaxy wide, Karson’s employer, the Solicitor General, forces him back to his memories. Hoping a defined life could be muddled into the grey, he encounters something that shows him just how black and white his world is. Standard routine becomes a complex adventure, men become evil beasts, women become a divine treasure, a simple contract becomes his purpose. Karson must find his Brother of the Forge, before the Fool takes him.”

Dive into the rich world Collector Karson must navigate to fulfill his simple contract. Technology, Empires, Kingdoms, Lovers, Veterans, Warlords, and the Divine, all can be found inside The Collector , a sci-fi action thriller and the debut novel of author Eli Stephens.

Favorite Lines:

“You may know her every move, but I know her every desire, so I suggest you step back before those desires sway against you…friend.”

“‘You walked into my club with a T-seven, what did you expect?’ Karson added, ‘It was two actually.’ ‘Pardon?’ Karson repeated, “It was two, I had two T-sevens.’ ‘Oh shit my bad…you came in with TWO T-sevens, what did you expect?'”

“So, you are blind suddenly?…Nope just oblivious.”

My Opinion:

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.

This is a debut novel for Stephens and I thought it was a fantastic first book! It was a really refreshing and creative story concept that I am jealous Stephens was able to pull off and bring to life. Karson’s journey was an interesting one as he finds himself whisked away from the world he thought he knew that was rooted in routine and into a world full of intrigue, action, and adventure.

Stephen’s world building is nothing short of extraordinary, weaving together elements of technology, empires, kingdoms, and the divine to create a tapestry of rich details that keep readers invested throughout the story. Stephens does a great job at blending elements of sci-fi, action, and thriller genres to create a story that is quite unique. 

Summary: 

Overall, with the compelling characters, intricate world-building, and interesting plot, this would be a great read for fans of the genre and newcomers alike. If you like sci-fi, thrillers, action, adventure, and a touch of romance, then this book could be for you. Happy reading!

The Collector

 

Review: The Surfacing by Terrance Coffey

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Synopsis:

Body snatchers.
Mind control.
An alien invasion almost too clever to be caught.
Read the most chilling sci-fi first contact story in years…

A seemingly normal six-year-old named Kaden is concealing a profound mystery. He possesses an uncanny wisdom beyond his tender age, navigating the world independently, and wielding an eerie influence over those around him, even his parents. Yet Kaden is not alone in his inexplicable nature. In the quiet town of Lynch, Kentucky, peculiar occurrences spiral out of control. Mysterious chasms materialize from thin air, individuals of all ages vanish without a trace, and the populace succumbs to an eerie force, enveloped by an otherworldly blue haze.
Amidst the chaos stands Clay Krutcher, a disenchanted coal miner unwittingly holding the key to unraveling these anomalies. Little does he know, the fate of humanity rests squarely on his shoulders. Can Clay defy his destiny, confront the inhuman force lurking beneath the surface, and save our world from impending annihilation? The countdown to The Surfacing has begun, and time is running out.

Favorite Lines:

“It’s already hard enough out here, honey. This world is cruel and vindictive. People treat you a certain way not because of who you are but because of how you look and who you’re with. Why make your life even harder than it has to be?”

“You always smell like a dog. Stop blamin’ it on the rain.”

My Opinion:

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.

I grew up watching sci-fi movies with my dad so naturally I’m a fan of the genre and this book sounded right up my alley. Following multiple storylines, this book takes readers on a creepy ride as humans themselves not alone on Earth. Strange things start to happen in the small town of Lynch, Kentucky. People are going missing, voids are appearing in the air, and the citizens of Lynch are being terrorized by an unknown force. Clay Krutcher finds himself in the mix of it as he tries to get to the bottom of the mystery plaguing the town. In a parallel storyline, we also follow along Lily and Frank Astin as they deal with the mysterious disappearance of their autistic child, Jeremy. These stories become intertwined with a disturbingly unusual six year old named Kaden who is in the center of it all.

This book reminded me of Stephenie Meyer’s The Host – I guess only in the body snatcher context – which I always thought needed to be more than one book due to the world and content potential she introduced in that book. I am happy to report that I felt like this book had the perfect amount of information and the pacing felt just right. I didn’t feel rushed but I also didn’t feel bored.

I found this book to be incredibly addictive! Needing to know what happens next, I was turning page after page to see where Coffey was going to take us. Coffey does a great job at both world building and character writing. I often felt like I was right there in the room with the characters throughout the story and I especially loved the plot twist! I think this book would make a fantastic TV show or movie and can’t wait to see it on the big screen!

Summary:

Overall, if you like sci-fi, action, mystery, suspense, and thrillers, then this book could be for you. Happy reading!

The Surfacing

 

Review: Early Adopter by Drew Harrison

~ likelystory18 ~ 4 Comments

Synopsis:

The Price of Tomorrow, Paid Today

“Early Adopter” is a collection of short stories from the edge of human progress. Eight stories hold dark mirrors to our own world… experience thought-provoking sci-fi, technologic tragedy, and pulse-pounding thrillers.

To Run Again: Dr. Laura Brandie is ready to change the world.
She’s the lead researcher behind the KSE, a revolutionary cure for paralysis and neurodegenerative conditions. And now, by good fortune, she’s found the perfect candidate for her first human trial: a man who suffers from locked-in syndrome.
Brett Harmon’s paralysis is total: he can’t move his arms, legs, torso, neck, or face. To the outside world, he’s little more than a statue that breathes… but Dr. Brandie’s KSE might be the miracle that allows Brett to run again.

Homonoia: The world faces an unprecedented alignment of catastrophes and failing systems, far too intricate and interconnected for any human to solve. Frank Burman joins with seven other volunteers for Project Homonoia–a radical, last-ditch effort to postpone the apocalypse. Separate minds link to form one multidisciplinary consciousness, the world’s first human superorganism… a hive mind. But with the world’s health rapidly failing, can Project Homonoia work out its kinks in time to make a difference?

Early Adopter: A loner enters into a relationship with a new type of partner: an AI agent, programmed to be the “perfect companion.” Sure, it’s all self-deception and a game of pretend, as she’s not actually real… but where simulated consciousness is concerned, maybe the lines between real and real enough can get blurry.

And many more!

Favorite Lines:

“A notification on the bottom corner of your screen shows Larry sent you a link. ‘It’s a list of psychological clinics in your area,’ Larry explains. ‘You should check into the nearest one and explain to the labcoats there that you just did the most braindead thing a man’s ever done, intentionally uglifying your partner.'” 

“…sidestepping outside your own normal head is the best way to acquaint yourself with the lens you see reality through.”

My Opinion:

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.

When Harrison requested a review for this book, it was described to me as a collection of short stories with an overall tone similar to Black Mirror. As a fan of Black Mirror, I knew I needed to check it out and I was not disappointed. I am a sucker for a good science fiction with a twist type of story and this collection was a creative collection that touched on a variety of thought provoking topics that hit a bit too close to home and were chilling in how close we are from that type of reality.

This was overall a very well written collection of stories. Harrison does a really good job at world building and I found myself constantly at the edge of my seat torn between wanting to close the book and not being able to turn the page fast enough because of all the suspense and twists and turns.

My two favorite stories in this collection were To Run Again and the name sake of the collection, Early Adopter. To Run Again centers around the story of a researcher who proposes a cutting edge treatment for neurodegenerative conditions. As the first short in the collection, this one really set the tone for how the rest of the series would go. The ending left me thoroughly creeped out but still wanting more. Early Adopter reminded me of the movie Her where the main character has a romantic partner that is programmed to be a romantic companion. This story had me pondering ethics that I haven’t had to really think about before and I found it to be very thought provoking and even a bit sad.

Summary:

Overall, I really enjoyed this collection. Harrison did a fantastic job at shining light on too-close-for-comfort alternate realities that left me thoroughly disturbed in the best way possible. If you’re a fan of fiction, thrillers, suspense, sci-fi, and mirrored realities similar to Black Mirror, then this book could be for you. Happy reading!

Early Adopter

 

Review: Hounds of Gaia by Sean M. Tirman

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Synopsis:

Foxhound doesn’t care about the gaps in her memory. Being a Contractor, a kind of spacefaring mercenary, keeps her occupied enough. Rather than dwelling, she rockets around the farthest reaches of the solar system, earning a steady paycheck hunting down ne’er-do-wells and enjoying a semblance of freedom most folks in the outer colonies can’t dream of.

So when she receives an urgent prisoner transfer request from a cult starship, she accepts the gig. She figures that transporting a bone marrow-eating serial killer from the cult’s colony back to Earth is just another well-paying job that’ll keep her mind off things. Upon discovering that the suspect in custody is an orphan girl—one that could pass for her much younger doppelgänger—she decides it’s time to get some answers.

But before she can piece together who the girl is, how their lives intertwine, and who orchestrated their implausible rendezvous, a group of violent prisoners aboard Foxhound’s starship breaks free. As the once-peaceful cultists take up arms in response, Foxhound teams up with her mechanized AI assistant and two of the cult’s wayward members to stop the barbaric escapees, elude the grasp of the cult’s radicalized leader, and protect and extract the mysterious, potentially dangerous girl.

Favorite Lines:

“We can’t change humanity but we can do our best to help as many in need as possible, especially those who cannot ask for it themselves.”

“Yet for all our goodness, all the wonderful things we created, it was not enough. Or perhaps a better way to put it was that it was too much. Our avarice, our greed, our wanton desires were killing the Earth, the only place we had to call home.”

My Opinion:

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.

I will start this review off by saying that sci-fi is not a usual genre for me, at least when it comes to books. I am, however, a sucker for sci-fi movies/tv shows and I think this book could make a great TV show/movie with multiple points of view coming together but we will get to that in a moment.

The beginning took a bit to get used to because there were a lot of character introductions and point of view changes. I felt like the scenes were flashing from one to the next at a rapid pace and somehow, they carried both a lot of detail and not enough at the same time. This is what made me think it could translate to the big screen well – if you wanted to keep viewers at the edge of their seats, you could dangle the carrot and leave them wanting more of that piece of the puzzle. 

I actually really enjoyed the background story of Earth’s history and how civilization came to be beyond Earth’s atmosphere. It is almost exactly how I imagine the future of the human race explores the stars.

There is a lot of mystery around Foxhound and Leila with Tirman ending the book on a somewhat foreseeable cliffhanger but somehow, I still wanted more. Tirman did a great job of answering some questions but leaving you with more. I would love more background on Foxhound’s backstory and how they got to where they are. What were their origins? Who are the hounds in Hounds of Gaia? 

Summary:

Overall, this was a really creative story that left me wanting answers to several questions I have after being left on a cliffhanger. If you like sci-fi, mystery, action, and adventure then this book could be for you.

Hounds of Gaia