Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite

The Worst Ship in the Fleet is the first book in the Dumb Luck and Dead Heroes series by Skyler Ramirez. After making a monumental mistake that led to the deaths of 504 civilians, Captain Brad Mendoza's military career in the Promethean Navy is in disarray. Assigned to the remote Gerson Station, Brad finds himself in command of the Persephone -- a frigate hailed as the worst ship in the Promethean Fleet. Resigned to his fate, Brad reluctantly meets his crew and soon develops an infatuation with Lieutenant Commander Jessica Lin, his beautiful and talented XO, who also has a dark past. However, on the way to a seemingly routine patrol, Brad and his crew encounter a dangerous threat they had not foreseen. Can they survive? And will Brad be able to protect his XO from her past?

A concise sci-fi novella filled with humor, heartbreak, and mystery, The Worst Ship in the Fleet takes you on an exhilarating interstellar adventure you won't want to end. Skyler Ramirez excels in crafting a compelling plot featuring characters you love to root for while others you love to hate. With a fast-paced narrative, Ramirez's sci-fi adventure tale hooks you in from the first page, and it's a thrilling ride to the finish line. A couple of well-placed twists and turns raise the stakes, and, as a reader, you find yourself hoping the main leads make it out of their situation alive. Ramirez's use of dry humor hits the nail on the head almost every time, and there were multiple instances throughout the book when I chuckled out loud. Fans of space opera science fiction will savor this one.

Reviewed by Foram Vyas for Readers' Favorite

Fleet Opposed by Chuck Grossart is a gripping start to The Han Wars series, plunging readers into a high-stakes military conflict that promises to keep you on the edge of your seat. The story kicks off with Commander Jackson Flynn, the new captain of the RSS Repulse, who finds his routine mission shattered by a devastating Han sneak attack. As Flynn and his crew fight to fend off the invasion, they discover that the enemy is not only external but also within their own ranks. Meanwhile, Junior Captain Anka Siljan of the Han Navy begins to question her allegiance when she learns the war's catalyst was a lie. Torn between duty and morality, Siljan faces a heart-wrenching decision that could change the course of the war.

Chuck Grossart's writing in Fleet Opposed is both compelling and immersive, making it a standout in the military science fiction genre. The plot is fast-paced and reminiscent of Pearl Harbor, filled with intense battle sequences and unexpected twists that keep the tension high. Grossart excels in character development, providing depth to both heroes and antagonists. You can't help but feel a mix of admiration and frustration toward the characters as their complex motivations unfold. The pacing is excellent, ensuring that the action never lets up, while the themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and the blurred lines of morality are deftly explored. The vivid descriptions and realistic combat scenarios make it easy to visualize the epic space battles. If you're a fan of Marko Kloos or Jay Allan, Fleet Opposed is a must-read that will leave you eagerly anticipating the next installment in The Han Wars series. It's a thrilling, thought-provoking read that's well worth your time.

Reviewed by Anne-Marie Reynolds for Readers' Favorite

Youtopia by Joseph Rein is a techno-thriller with a difference. Anabel Downer is a special agent with the FBI, and she’s been given a strange case to solve. Youtopia is a mind space, similar to virtual reality, where people live their dream lives in a perfect world. These people are called Immersers, but when one is killed in their Youtopia, it kicks off a chaotic race to find the killer. Anabel is considered the best agent for the case, and when she starts her investigations, she speaks to people who are for and against Youtopia. However, the case brings her past back to face her, and she starts to question her reality. As the killer steps up his game, she must confront her demons if she is to solve this case.

Youtopia by Joseph Rein is the first in a new series, and it will leave you with your jaw on the floor. This is definitely an edge-of-your-seat thriller that will have you questioning what is and isn’t real. This unique plot offers plenty of action that will keep you reading all the way through. The author has a highly creative imagination. This book will, in equal parts, have you gripped on the murder mystery – how could it happen inside a mind space? – and questioning what you see as perfection and whether it’s what you really want. The characters are amazing, as unique as the plot, and highly believable. The twists and turns will leave you speechless and just when you think you have worked it all out, the plot will go spiraling out of your control once more. This is one of the best sci-fi books I have ever had the pleasure to read, something very different in the genre, and I can’t wait to read the next installment.

Reviewed by Rabia Tanveer for Readers' Favorite

First by Randy Brown is a space travel science fiction novel about the race for outer space that can get out of hand very easily. Lewis wished to be the first astronaut to reach another star system and get back home safely. He dreamed big, and SpaceFirst shared the same goals. However, they are not the only ones racing toward the same goal which is to reach Proxima Centauri. Lewis was excited about the journey, but nothing could have prepared him for what lay ahead. The perilous journey proved to be deadly but there wasn’t much Lewis could do about it. All he could do was face each problem head-on and struggle to survive. He had to find a way back home, or else he would be lost in space forever. With lies, deceit, and sabotage dogging his every step, Lewis needed to survive. But could he?

A space race is a theme I haven't read before, but I enjoyed First so much. Author Randy Brown created a believable world where space travel is real (even if it is terrifyingly dangerous). Lewis’s character was fantastic. I understood his passion and excitement, but I had a feeling in the pit of my stomach the moment Lewis started his journey. I knew something would go wrong, and it did. The action was relentless, the pace was fast, and the suspense was incredible. I loved how intelligent and courageous Lewis was. He was a leader through and through, and it showed in how he navigated the obstacles ahead. If you love space exploration novels, you will adore this one! First by Randy Brown was simply perfect for me. I loved the camaraderie between Lewis, Colt, Sandra, Peter, and Eve. I enjoyed the thrill the story gave me (even though I was a little scared at times), and I loved the narrative style. I hope there will be a sequel!

Reviewed by Stephanie Chapman for Readers' Favorite

Ultimatum: Ultimatum series Book 1 by Vladimir Fleurisma is a dystopian novel set after a nuclear war decimated the world's population. Something sinister has emerged that feasts on anything living. The creatures are evolving, and more human survivors die from their insatiable hunger. D is a marine who has his sights set on reaching Three Mile Island. As Zach is running from the beasts, D rescues him. They find a bunker with a small group living inside. Zach spends his time trying to get close to Dede. D feels Hank, the leader, is hiding something. He takes an interest in Cella because of the chemical weapons and healing medicines she has created. D feels heightened trepidation when Wanda asks him to make sure her grandchild Saffire learns the same skills he has used to survive outside of the bunker.

Vladimir Fleurisma included several moral lessons in the narration. I found an interesting conversation between D and Cella during which they discussed what age group adapted the quickest and what social behavior would not form without parents. The amount of competition between the role players with military experience and civilians was intense. The women did not get along well and were quick to stab each other in the back. There was never a dull moment to be found anywhere. The dialogue is engaging and revealed the unique personalities of every character. Watching the shift in opinions gave me a clear understanding of the intentions of each person. The monsters kept everyone on their toes, and I kept thinking the worst whenever silence followed any encounter. The transitions were seamless, and the ending was unpredictable. I recommend Ultimatum to dystopian readers who enjoy stories with intense suspense and danger.

Reviewed by Eric Ferrar for Readers' Favorite

Commander Kate Holman is assigned to lead the first mission to Mars. She's honored to fulfill this duty. Unfortunately, Kate is relieved of her command and replaced by the mission's security officer at the last minute. The order came from NASA's assistant director himself. In the blink of an eye, their entire mission went from being an exploration mission to a military assignment. The security officer retrieves a foreign object from the face on Mars (an alien site), leaving Kate and her crew shocked. They don't know what he removed from the site, but it leads to dire consequences. Astronauts suddenly begin to die under mysterious circumstances. There's talk about a curse affecting the entire crew. The only thing that can save them now is if they put the stolen item back in its rightful place on Mars. Kate does some digging around of her own and finally discovers the truth. She understands why some people would kill to keep the truth hidden, but exposing it isn't simple. People with powerful political influences are involved. Do you want to learn the truth too? Then grab a copy of Jayson Adams' riveting tale, Ares, to find out.

Ares is an exuberant tale with a compelling storyline and well-developed characters. Kate's character is down-to-earth and identifiable. She is a strong main character with intelligence and wit. I got a great sense of the story's setting and atmosphere through her point of view. I like that she doesn't succumb in the face of adversity. When she was relieved of mission command, she immediately sensed that their protocol was jeopardized and didn't yield until she got to the bottom of the issue. Her performance is believable and kept me submerged in the overall story. Her only Achilles heel is her past and I love how Jayson Adams ties in her past issues with her present dilemma and inner conflict. There are a few tension-ridden and fear-inducing plot twists nicely packed into the storyline that will entice horror and murder mystery fans. The plot is also full of political intrigue and shocking reveals that will impress fans of conspiracy theory novels. Without reservation, I recommend Ares to sci-fi fans worldwide.

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.