Reviewed by Eduardo Aduna for Readers' Favorite

DC Eastman's The Undulating Shadows is a well-crafted sci-fi horror thriller that follows the intertwined destinies of three orphans as their lives are haunted by a deadly specter. Justin and Raven, both still reeling from tragedies that have left them utterly alone, meet the brilliant and driven Albert. The three form an unlikely bond amidst the dangers of the orphanage, one that will be tested as they unravel the mystery of the sinister shadow that has woven its way into the fabric of their existence.

It is a rare talent that can make their debut novel self-restrained enough to satisfy yet expansive enough to warrant another foray into a wider universe. DC Eastman writes with detailed yet confident strokes, painting characters that resonate with the underdog in each of us. Indeed, each character’s experiences and thoughts felt like a familiar memory, and each tragedy that befell them felt like a punch in the gut. The first few chapters were difficult to get through as Eastman expertly leverages empathy to make each scene vivid and visceral. The second half showcases the breadth of his knowledge base as he creates a gentle reminder that what we consider fiction now may not be that far removed from the scientific realities impacting our lives today. It is hard to pigeonhole The Undulating Shadows into one specific niche since it overlaps various genres and does so in a way that stays true to its characters and story. A well-written debut deserves a sequel and it would be a joy to see how our protagonists stack up against new and more insidious threats. I thoroughly enjoyed this novel.

Reviewed by Shrabastee Chakraborty for Readers' Favorite

As a revolutionary biologist dabbling with CRISPR, Dr. Howard Wake’s life is extraordinary. He is perpetually on the run from the Federal Institute for Biomedical Research, which would love to put him in prison or worse. His genetically modified eight-year-old twins are adept at performing experiments. His lab can be packed within hours on the back of his RV, which he uses for shuttling between his hideouts. However, it seems that the continuously active CRISPR machine incorporated into his children’s genome is about to take an enormous leap. At the same time, someone from Howard’s past finally catches up with him, and he has a lot to answer for. To find out what happens next, read CRISPR Evolution by Charis Jones.

This thoroughly engaging work of speculative fiction rejuvenated my love for science fiction. Set in the near future, it has a dystopian theme. FIBR closely monitors most of the ongoing biological research projects. The independently working scientists must flee underground, keeping themselves off FIBR’s radar. The beauty of the storyline is that, although imaginary, this scenario never seems far-fetched. Based on the issues the research community faces today, such a future seems all too plausible. Charis Jones shows how a combination of funding crunches, government intervention, and misinterpretation of results by the media could ultimately hinder scientific progress. At the same time, this thought-provoking story raises questions about the interplay of science and ethics. The characters are spellbinding, each shining in their own light and demanding center stage. As a brilliant and dedicated rogue scientist with a questionable sense of ethics, Dr. Howard Wake changed my outlook on a hero.

While hardcore scientific facts form the book's foundation, Jones’ literary tweaks help it soar to unprecedented heights. I especially loved the visuals of a cell, with chromosome rafts and glittering hubs of gene transcription, the busy proteins, and enzymes having distinct personalities. In CRISPR Evolution, Jones recounts the beauty of life and imagines the unleashing of one’s full potential. I recommend it to those who appreciate science fiction. This story would be perfect for the fans of Michael Crichton’s Next.

Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite

Unanimity (Spiral Worlds Book 1) is a work of fiction in the science fiction and adventure subgenres and is the opening novel in the Spiral Worlds series. It is best suited to the general adult reading audience and was penned by Alexandra Almeida. In this thrilling tale which sparks off a series set over six fateful days that change the course of all known universes, we meet Shadow, a god among men who rose from the life of a screenwriter to become a revered figure, thanks to his involvement with an AI reality that helps humanity face its darker thoughts. But Shadow’s darkness haunts him endlessly, from his struggles with long-lost love to the young and merciless new goddess who would seek to take his place.

I adored this work by Alexandra Almeida from cover to cover for its modern take on fantasy and the subversion of so many typical themes and ideas that have become tired and overdone in the genre. I love the fluidity of the characters and that nobody was set in a predestined mold. Everyone can change, quickly or slowly, and for good or evil, and it was fascinating to watch Shadow’s emotional inner journey and the knock-on effect that it has on his life in the immediate present. The queer storytelling elements are included beautifully and never made into a gimmick or overdone for the sake of themselves, and as such, they flow naturally with the fantasy and emotional elements of the narrative. I would not hesitate to recommend Unanimity as a sensational opening novel to a very promising series.

Reviewed by Asher Syed for Readers' Favorite

The Intrepid: Dawn of the Interstellar Age by Arnie Benn revolves around the first human expedition to the Alpha Centauri star system, a mission undertaken by an international team of exceptional individuals, during an era of global unity and abundance. Strangely, they discover another vessel, seemingly from their own solar system, equipped with weaponry on the habitable planet they were sent to explore. This puzzling discovery leads to a disagreement between the two mission crews, escalating tensions and pushing them toward a potential nuclear confrontation. The perplexity of their findings provokes profound questions about humanity's origins, existence, and destiny in the universe, and the situation becomes critical as communication with Earth is impossible due to the vast interstellar distance.

Arnie Benn's The Intrepid: Dawn of the Interstellar Age very much balances hard science fiction's technicality with a tightly woven and relatable narrative. Benn has a talent for handling intricate scientific concepts and integrating them into the storyline without wandering off into weeds of jargon and overexplaining which, frankly, in and of itself sets him apart from other contemporary authors. And there's a glossary! I love the discovery elements, the fantastic characters that are all well-developed, and the world-building that bridges the gap between Benn's imagination and ours as his readers. We are set for the next book in what is a solid start to a new series and I am really looking forward to seeing where we go next. I have no doubt others will feel the same. Very highly recommended.

Reviewed by Luwi Nyakansaila for Readers' Favorite

Matthew (Matt) Ryder knows there is a war on the horizon because of tension between the Union of the Earth and one of its colony planets, Acadia. Matt serves under one of Acadia’s feared commanders, Admiral Jim Hollingsworth, but his maternal family is from Earth. Torn between the two sides, Matt goes to Earth to visit his grandparents to avoid participating in the coming conflict. But when the war begins, Matt’s plan to stay out of sight is foiled because he is forced to serve on a secret intelligence mission led by Amanda Chester, the Deputy Secretary of Alien Affairs. Amanda is convinced there is a third party in this war that has caused misunderstandings between The Union and Acadia, which have led to the unnecessary war. Amanda's crew's mission is to stop the war by exposing this third party and its motives. Get a copy of Disunion by John Whitman, and join Matt and Amanda on their action-packed adventure across the galaxy.

This story had me on the edge of my seat, from the space battles to the action scenes and assassination attempts. Suspense, adventure, mystery, and a dash of romance, Disunion brings you all this and more. It is the first installment in the book series by John Whitman, and it established a good foundation for this amazing adventure. Whether it is the characteristics of alien species or how the ships work with human links, every detail is vital to the plot. The book also covers familiar topics like racism, climate change, and corrupt politicians. The characters are great, and I enjoyed each one’s development. Matt and Amanda had complex relationships with their fathers, and this helped them bond and understand each other. Matt’s struggle to choose between his Earth or Acadian roots came full circle in the final battle. I loved seeing him grow from someone who did not want anything to do with the war to a person who desired to save all lives, whether Acadian or from Earth. The book is fast-paced, well-written, and has a smooth flow. I highly recommend Disunion to science fiction lovers and cannot praise it enough for its memorable story.

Reviewed by Bernadette Longu for Readers' Favorite

The Defence of the Commonwealth by John J. Spearman IV is pure science fiction at its best. The author takes the reader on a journey through space and how the new Commonwealth was born. There are so many characters that march through the pages of the book but the ones that count the most are King William VIII, his daughter Queen Charlotte who inherited the throne, Captain Perseverance, Ester Andrews, Admiral Freshly, Commander Ken Berger, Captain Hank Boyd, Commander St John Powell, Advocate Alex Papadopoulos, Mr. Gilchrist, advisor to the Queen, and Samantha, Mr. Gilchrist's housekeeper and confidant.

The Defence of the Commonwealth shows how human nature does not change, even in the year 2527 when new discoveries are made to help the ships in space. There is still corruption and underhanded work and trying to get the better of everyone and everything and don’t forget the greed. The author has taken present wars and turned them into a space war with the exact same parties in the most interesting way. It took a bit of time to get into the story, especially with all the technical knowledge that was relayed. But as you read, you realize why this is relevant and very important to the plot. I eventually understood the need for all the technical knowledge although it was a bit daunting. Once I got past that, I realized why the author had included it and that it is a very important part of the story.

The Defence of the Commonwealth is a serious but light-hearted tale of the future with all of humankind’s greed, inactivity, and apathy. The twist in the tale at the end is delightful and leaves room for the reader’s imagination to take flight. Thank you for an eye-opening book. I really enjoyed reading it.

Reviewed by Keith Mbuya for Readers' Favorite

The genius CEO of AI company Quantum World and a time corrector, Dr. Vincent Abajian had just brought his long-lost love Akane Egami back into his life, but at what cost? Akane had been lost in a time turbulence for over three decades since 1991. It was during this time that Vincent met Emika, whom he later realized had Akane’s soul trapped inside her. In a bid to separate Akane from Emika, Vincent had gone back in time to alter the current reality. Although he now had Akane back, he had lost fragments of his memory involving Emika, with whom he shared a past. It turns out that Emika is still in love with Vincent and is hiding a big secret from him. What secret, and what will happen once Vincent recovers his memory? On the other hand, Vincent’s new powerful adversary Vandal plans to sabotage Quantum World’s new AI invention, the Neurolink. As if that is not enough, Vandal is hell-bent on destroying everything Vincent has accomplished and everyone he loves. Get yourself Avi Datta’s The Movement: Time Corrector Series Book 2 to find out what transpires.

Avi Datta’s The Movement is just what you should be looking for if you love a science fiction novel with a touch of mystery, action, and romance. Featuring the savvy Dr. Abajian, Datta once again delivers a compelling tale. I strongly recommend that you read the first installment of this series to fully appreciate the story. Datta hatches an intriguing plot, giving vivid descriptions that bring the scenes to life. He alternates the narration between the past and present, while at the same time switching the action between designated characters. This gave the storyline a complicated but beautiful flow. Datta spices the narration with humor, adventure, thrills, and suspense, keeping readers enthralled throughout the reading experience. The emotion in his words allowed me to experience his wonderfully developed cast’s feelings. I pitied Markus. He gave Emika all the love and care he could, but she didn’t choose him. She was obsessed with Vincent and Markus should have realized that. I loved the book and am looking forward to the next installment of this amazing series.

Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite

Gallantry in Action is the first installment of the Jonah Halberd Series by John J. Spearman. A sci-fi military novel set in space, the book follows Captain Jonah Halberd, newly assigned commander of the spaceship HMS Cumberland, an advanced cruiser in the Royal Navy of the Commonwealth, currently under the reign of King Edward XII. There is an ongoing war between the Commonwealth and the Rodinan Federation. After rescuing Lady Julia Hawthorne, the fiancee of First Space Lord Chesterfield, Jonah and his crew set off for yet another dangerous assignment. But an ensuing battle with the Rodinan armada causes heavy casualties, and Jonah finds himself captured by the enemy. A daring rescue led by Lieutenant Commander Fred MacMurray results in Jonah receiving a hero's welcome back home. Now, he must unite the Coalition for war.

An action-packed military drama set in interstellar space, Gallantry in Action is a wild rollercoaster of a book that masterfully captures the lives of soldiers fighting in wars. John J. Spearman's worldbuilding is impressive, crafting a tale revolving around a war between two mega powers. The sci-fi concepts utilized in the narrative are riveting. Theories of near-light speed travel and advanced futuristic battleships are seamlessly incorporated into the story, pushing the limits of your imagination and reminding readers why they fell in love with science fiction in the first place. The cast is quite large, but each character feels distinct and unique. Anyone who is a fan of popular space sagas like Star Trek or Dune will find Gallantry in Action thoroughly entertaining.

Reviewed by Saifunnissa Hassam for Readers' Favorite

Alan Priest's SkyWorld Saga: Foundation is an exciting futuristic science fiction and adventure novel. Ben Dawson is an inventor and the founder of Sky City, an independent city in the skies with no geographical limits. Sky City looks like a pyramid with several vertical levels and hundreds of Skyboats on each horizontal level. Ben's entire family is involved in the design, building, and maintenance of Sky City, combining multiple talents and skills, including shipbuilding, aerodynamics, aeronautics, and robotics. Skyboats and Sky City become the target of a takeover by the Department of Space. Ben is threatened with charges of "crimes against humanity" if he refuses to comply. He comes up with a plan to save his vision of creating more Sky Cities. His team consists of Paige, his wife; his children Jason, Angie, and Alana; Ryan, an incredibly creative architect, and engineer; Jesse, a security expert; and Daniel, Ben's longtime mentor and legal counselor. Four team members head to the moon on an exploratory mining mission. Ben faces relentless pressure from DOS to give up Sky City's independence.

I thoroughly enjoyed reading Alan Priest's SkyWorld Saga: Foundation for its incredible characters and highly imaginative futuristic worldbuilding. I became immersed in the story from the outset. I liked the character development in the novel, through backstories, and particularly through the characters' thinking and actions. Ben Dawson and his team are faced with perilous situations on Earth and in space. They have to be able to think on their feet and act fast. I loved how the team meets incredible difficulties with ingenious solutions. The novel gained great depth through the details of the underlying technology on Earth, in the sky, and in space. I felt those well-crafted details made the characters more vivid, illustrating their different talents and skills and their teamwork. I liked how personal relationships and family love emerge as the story unfolds. I found the story thought-provoking, as ethical questions arise about the rights and freedoms of individuals vs. the government. Intrigue, suspense, and action continue to the end as Ben Dawson fights for his vision of Earth's survival, and an individual's right to pursue his/her dream. This is a terrific futuristic sci-fi tale with strong characters and relevant themes!

Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite

Falcon’s Ghost is a work of fiction in the science fiction genre and serves as the second installment in the Falcon Books series. It is suitable for the general reading audience and was penned by author Mike Waller. Set sixty years after the Blackship War, the book resumes the journey of Joe Falcon, who has spent the interim since the first book trying to enjoy a simpler and more peaceful life. This serenity is savagely ended when Earth once more comes under alien attack. As the only person who truly understands the threat, Joe must find a way to broker peace with an entity consumed by its hatred for living things.

Falcon's Ghost is a highly engaging science-fiction novel that entrenches us in mysterious alien lands. One of the things I enjoyed the most about this story was how well-developed and intriguing the characters were. Falcon is a flawed but sympathetic and engaging protagonist, and Waller does a masterful job of making Falcon a character who is easy to connect with. Author Mike Waller is a master at building suspense and mystery, and I found myself on the edge of my seat, waiting to discover both Falcon and humanity's fate. The descriptive work in the book is vivid and immersive, making it easy to imagine the world of action-packed sci-fi events and easy for you to feel like you're there alongside Falcon. Overall, I felt the work was action-packed and well written, with its own flavor that separates it from other books in the same genres. I would not hesitate to recommend Falcon's Ghost to those who enjoy fast-paced and action-packed science-fiction stories or those looking for a gateway into the genre.