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 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 Vincent Dublado for Readers' Favorite

As the first book in The Biogenesis War series, The Chiral Agent is a provocative science fiction thriller novel with intelligent ideas. L.L. Richman’s hero is Captain Jonathan Micah Case of the Alliance Navy, an innocent man on the run. Set in the far future where humanity has reached the stars, Case had been previously thought dead. He regains consciousness with no memory of his past and with a voice talking inside his head. On top of that, the military that he served is tracking him down. With the aid of Doctor Samantha Travis, Case discovers who he really is. They have stolen his identity through chiral cloning. Jonathan and Micah have become two physical personas, where one is a mere extraction of the original’s biomatter. Micah must turn the tables on those running against him to get his life back, for they will not stop until they obtain the research, steal the samples, and destroy everything else.

The tension comes from the novel's cat and mouse game premise. Either Micah is hunted down, or he gets to them first. He is automatically placed at a great disadvantage upon waking up with memory loss, and he tries to put the pieces of the puzzle together with the help of some morally-driven individuals and that annoying voice inside his head. Hats off to L.L. Richman, who chooses to dabble in ideas in a genre that is saturated by robots and aliens. In a time when we read about cloning and gene editing, the science in The Chiral Agent is theoretically possible, as well as the moral implications that go with it. Richman’s writing makes it even larger and more encompassing, as the author writes with bold and evocative strokes, and you don't mind reading the technical explanations within the dialogues because it keeps you in the zone. This is a tense and entertaining science fiction series that would be a shame to miss.

Reviewed by Vincent Dublado for Readers' Favorite

A.K. DuBoff’s Cadicle Space Opera kicks off with Empire Reborn in the Taran Empire Saga Series. She has created a space opera reminiscent of the works of E.E. Smith. Take a step into the Cadicle Universe where Tarans are the dominant race and humans are their genetic offshoot. Jason Sietinen has worked hard to become a Tararian Selective Service officer in his own right and has gotten used to his parents occupying important positions in the TSS. Jason is assigned to investigate a mysterious attack on the salvage hauler Andvari. Further investigation reveals a tentacled leviathan was responsible for the attack—creatures made from ethereal energy and without physical form. A shadow faction of the Taran Empire has opened the Gates in an attempt to disturb the peace. As war looms, Jason must find a way to unite the worlds and restore peace.

As a new space opera, Empire Reborn puts emphasis on the game of space politics. But it is a political allegory that goes beyond escapism, as it points your consciousness to contemporary cultural politics and how it might undergo changes in the far-off future. Empire Reborn counters the grand expectations of optimism in the age of great advancement. It may sound cynical, but inequality appears to persist as those who reside within the Outer Colonies are in want in affecting change. I like how the TSS agents are gifted with telekinetic and telepathic abilities, which in its own way has a political purpose, as they use it to leverage their traction in the hierarchy. The plot has a perspective that fixates on re-envisioning privilege and hierarchy. Perhaps this is why the book has such a sense of narrative richness. It is a story that balances dialogue and characterization, as we get to know more about the cosmic threat based on every interaction, and you believe the danger as it lurks. Discovering its resolution will make you want to read the next installment.

Reviewed by Saifunnissa Hassam for Readers' Favorite

Mike Waller's science fiction novel Hawk: Hellfire is set on planets in the Confederation Guarda and on Scenna, a remote and independent planet. Krystian Hauken, or Hawk, is imprisoned on an airless moon for a crime he did not commit: A deadly explosion on his home planet of Arkeden. He seizes the opportunity to escape in exchange for a mission to oust dictator Basa from Scenna. Hawk has extensive and formidable skills from his military and mercenary past. Abigail Renner, a Guarda officer on Attika, is determined to find the source of an extremely addictive deadly hallucinogenic drug, Hellfire. When she discovers a freighter transporting Hellfire, she tracks it in a Guarda stealth spaceship to Scenna. Hawk's and Abbie's paths cross in Scenna. The Scenna rebel leader Sarnai has only limited weaponry to fight General Basa. Hawk's plan to attack Basa must be successful and will require extraordinary teamwork and courage.

I thoroughly enjoyed reading Mike Waller's Hawk: Hellfire for its key characters, Hawk, Abbie, and Sarnai, and for its richly imagined setting. Hawk, Abbie, and Sarnai are driven by different motives. I liked the development of the key characters, how their life-experiences influence them, their courage in fighting Basa, and how the challenges on Scenna change them. Hawk comes to terms with his mercenary past. Abbie shows herself to be extraordinarily resilient and capable of leadership beyond that of a Guarda officer. Sarnai must consider Scenna's ability to defend itself against off-world greed for its rare metal resources. I liked the involvement of Scenna's ordinary people and how Hawk builds trust and teamwork. Finally, I loved the vivid and richly imagined history of humanity's expansion from Earth into deep space, and the impact of quantum drives on interstellar expansion. Hawk: Hellfire is a terrific science fiction tale, full of action, and is thought-provoking!

Reviewed by Romuald Dzemo for Readers' Favorite

Zero-Day Rising is the third book in The BetterWorld Trilogy by T. C. Weber and in this installment, Kiyoko sets out on a dangerous mission to free her sister, Waylee, who is facing life imprisonment. She is also out to sink MediaCorp and to destroy U.S. President Rand. What she does not know is that MediaCorp has its own sinister plan; it is about mind control using cerebral implants and they are targeting the population. Can Kiyoko and her sister’s team stop the deadly onslaught of this corporation on humanity?

This is science fiction at its best, a tale of resistance against an aggressive and utterly oppressive government and a corporation about to rob everyone of their freedom. T. C. Weber creates a world that is irresistible, especially to fans of virtual reality games. It is sophisticated and the new digital technology is designed to offer not just endless possibilities but power to its owners that no one or corporation has thus far enjoyed. It is in this digital context that the dynamics of the conflict are created. The characters are well-developed and I enjoyed the way the author fills in the blanks with information from the previous installments without digressing from the main plot.

Zero-Day Rising is filled with action, brimming with sophisticated characters, and propelled forward by a monumental conflict. The writing is superb and this skillfully plotted and beautifully written story demonstrates how a few corporations can take control over the lives of millions of people, thanks to the power of digital technology. It is a novel with a clear and strong message about what happens when too much power is given to the wrong people — it is as entertaining and as mind-boggling as any can be.

Reviewed by Susan Sewell for Readers' Favorite

Three teens try to outrun unknown agencies, a mysterious viral infection spreading across the earth, and ape-like creatures in an effort to fulfill a task commissioned in a dream in the thrilling young adult science fiction novel, Edge of Light by Jay Antani. Dev Harrison is a small child when his physicist father's lab explodes during a compromised experiment, and he vanishes without a trace. Ten years later, Dev starts experiencing a recurring dream where his father shows him the location of a hidden item. When meteors explode over his city, Dev feels the urgency to follow the directions portrayed in his vivid dreams. Accompanied by his two best friends, Dev sets out on a journey to uncover the enigma behind his nighttime visions. Simultaneously with the trio's departure, a viral infection devastates the region, and they discover that at least two unidentified individuals are stalking them. Can they fulfill their mission? Or will they fall victim to one of the many dangers the world now faces?

Starting with a bang, Edge of Light by Jay Antani is an action-packed science fiction novel. Beginning with the dramatic opening paragraphs, the plot's drama and suspense continue to accelerate until coming to a climactic and heart-stopping conclusion. With the extreme situations and the characters' reactions, I was hooked from the first page. Not only are the protagonists well-developed and relatable, but the plot is also flawlessly executed. Containing alien creatures, unspecified agencies, and quantum physics, it is a remarkable novel, and I loved every aspect of the storyline. It is an edge-of-the-seat adventure that will enthrall everyone who enjoys books filled with action, drama, and suspense.

Reviewed by Susan Sewell for Readers' Favorite

After surviving an attack, a man must trust a group of renegades to hide him. At the same time, he resolves the mystery behind his missing memory in the intriguing science-fiction novel, Effacement by Hieronymus Hawkes. Cole works at BioNarratus, and he is one of the creators of the neurochip, Vitasync. The Vitasync has completely changed how the world's population interacts with technology and each other. Now each moment of every person's life is recorded and logged. Recently people have been dying, and Cole is given the job of determining whether the Vitasync chip is responsible for their deaths. While investigating the phenomena, Cole is attacked, drugged, and his Vitasync chip is removed. When he wakes up in his bed, he has no memory of what had happened in the last few days. Confronted by a media nightmare, Cole is rescued by a lawyer and taken to a compound hidden in the country. While investigating the events that led to his attack, Cole discovers there are aspects of Vitasync he knows nothing about, and someone wants him dead. What is hidden in his memory that threatens someone enough to kill him? Is it related to BioNarratus and Vitasync?

Effacement by Hieronymus Hawkes is a sensational science-fiction thriller set in a dystopian world. Taking place in the near future, the aspects of the story are thought-provoking and a little frightening. With the current popularity of VR, it wasn't too hard to imagine how the storyworld could evolve into reality. Filled with intrigue, suspense, and action, the plot moves at a quick pace. The story's excitement and apprehension continue building from the first page until the astounding conclusion. With the elements of drama and mystery blended with advanced technological aspects, it is an entertaining story that will delight everyone who enjoys science-fiction thrillers.

Reviewed by Joel R. Dennstedt for Readers' Favorite

Evocatively reminiscent of Michael Chrichton’s best techno-thrillers, The Fossil by Joshua T. Calvert shares the old master’s skill at handling a complexity of multiple, intertwined plotlines told with crystal clarity, at a breathless pace of development that keeps the pages turning, and by way of many well-sketched characters – all believable and personally engaging – leading us eagerly through a highly nuanced, wonderfully imagined, brain-satisfying, near-future adventure in a familiar if extrapolated world. In science fiction, credibility and continuity are king. The reader must believe the storyline is possible, perhaps probable, but at the same time, incredible. And any explanation of its development must be seamlessly embedded in the plot, not simply patched on like some overlying writing band-aid. Fans of the genre will understand.

Joshua T. Calvert scores a major hit with The Fossil, his first book in a planned trilogy. The only surviving member of a Mars exploration team is compelled to know why their craft crashed on its return to Earth, why she cannot remember vital details of the mission, and most importantly, what in hell did they bring back on board? In parallel quests, a beleaguered scientist attempts to prove that ancient astronauts, or aliens, or original humans built that enormous pyramid in Antarctica, and a pair of counter-terrorist agents are tasked against the Sons of Terra, Earth-devoted fanatics who seek to expose and destroy The Enemy – a closeted but supposedly supreme alien master. Like I said, a complex scenario of multiple, intertwined plotlines. As told by a new master of this genre with consummate skill, clarity, and gusto.

Reviewed by Rabia Tanveer for Readers' Favorite

Star Marque Rising by Shami Stovall is the perfect science fiction/fantasy novel to keep you glued to your chair for hours. If you ask Clevon Demarco, he will tell you he is the best gunrunner in history and you will not be able to find a specimen as fine as him. To him, he is invincible, thanks to his genetic modification and his own hard work. However, when he is arrested by the ever-serious and mysterious Captain Voight, Clevon does not expect to be given an offer. He could choose to be put behind bars or he could join her agenda against the superhumans. She wants him to act as her mercenary and, in return, she will give him whatever he wants. He can name it and it will be his. This seems to be too good to be true, but Clevon Demarco is a man who is used to taking risks. What could go wrong anyway?

Star Marque Rising by Shami Stovall was a complete surprise to me. I was not expecting to be swept away like that and I’m simply blown away. Demarco is such a different yet perfect character. He reminded me of Star-Lord from the Marvel universe. I loved his attitude; I enjoyed his dialogues and I was incredibly charmed the moment he opened his mouth. He has his own way of dealing with things, even if he is in big trouble. Even though Endellion Voight tested and teased him, he never lost his cool and simply did what he is best at. The constant action is thrilling and the way each chapter opens is enough motivation for the reader to keep reading on. I enjoyed the banter between Demarco and Voight, how they learned to work together and how everything tied together in the end. The political tension in the story is well-handled while at the same time, the author made sure it didn't get in the way of character development. I literally read this book in one sitting. Exceptionally well written.