Dystopian and utopian fiction

Book SynopsisA powerful dystopian novel set during a new American civil war, about a polygamist cult leader and his followers.

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Book SynopsisA modern retelling of the Camus classic that posits its story of infectious disease and quarantine in our contemporary age of race and class hysteria.

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Book SynopsisWinner of the Southern Book Prize ?for Fiction * Winner of a Nautilus Award (Gold)? With fires devastating much of America, Lark and his family first leave their home in Maryland for Maine. But as the country increasingly falls under the grip of religious nationalism, it becomes clear that nowhere is safe, not just from physical disasters but also persecution. The family secures a place on a crowded boat headed to Ireland, the last place on earth rumoured to be accepting American refugees.Upon arrival, it turns out that the safe harbor of Ireland no longer exists either-and Lark, the sole survivor of the trans-Atlantic voyage, must disappear into the countryside. As he runs for his life, Lark finds two equally lost and desperate souls: one of the last remaining dogs, who becomes his closest companion, and a fierce, mysterious woman in search of her lost son. Together they form a makeshift family and attempt to reach Glendalough, a place they believe will offer protection. But can any community provide the safety that they seek?Lark Ascending is a moving and unforgettable story of friendship and bravery, and even more, a story of the ongoing fight to protect our per­sonal freedoms and find our shared humanity, from a writer at the peak of his powers.Trade ReviewUSA Today Bestseller Southern Literary Award Winner Nautilus Award Winner – Gold Indie BestsellerSalon Favorite Book of 2022Booklist Editors' Choice of 2022Garden and Gun Best Southern Book of 2022 Indie Next List PickLos Angeles Times' Most Anticipated Fall 2022Lambda Literary's Most Anticipated Fall 2022 “In Lark Ascending, Silas House casts an irresistible spell, conjuring a near future that is both familiar and unbearable, illuminating the brutality and suffering that our own thoughtless age seems determined to invoke. But Lark Ascending is not merely, or even mainly, a tale of pain and grief. This beautiful book is shot through with such tenderness and humanity, such love and courage and beauty and hope, that it feels almost like a prayer.”—Margaret Renkl, author of Late MigrationsKentucky Poet Laureate Southern Literary Award Winner Nautilus Award Winner – Gold Indie BestsellerSalon Favorite Book of 2022Booklist Editors' Choice of 2022Garden and Gun Best Southern Book of 2022 Indie Next List PickLos Angeles Times' Most Anticipated Fall 2022Lambda Literary's Most Anticipated Fall 2022 “Silas House has always served as an ancestor from the past who has stepped into the present with rich lessons in tow. But with Lark House reveals himself to be an oracle from the future who has come back to illuminate our lived moment with a snapshot of what the years ahead could hold. The vision is terrifying and spare, but in House’s capable and delicate telling, it is also beautiful and compelling. Lark marks a stunning turn in House’s career, taking him from the Appalachian Mountains to a post-apocalyptic Atlantic crossing, but I have no doubt that readers will follow Silas House wherever he goes, whether into the past or headlong into the future.”—Wiley Cash, New York Times bestselling author of When Ghosts Come Home“In Lark Ascending, Silas House casts an irresistible spell, conjuring a near future that is both familiar and unbearable, illuminating the brutality and suffering that our own thoughtless age seems determined to invoke. But Lark Ascending is not merely, or even mainly, a tale of pain and grief. This beautiful book is shot through with such tenderness and humanity, such love and courage and beauty and hope, that it feels almost like a prayer.” —Margaret Renkl, author of Late Migrations and Graceland, At Last“Silas House has always served as an ancestor from the past who has stepped into the present with rich lessons in tow. But with Lark House reveals himself to be an oracle from the future who has come back to illuminate our lived moment with a snapshot of what the years ahead could hold. The vision is terrifying and spare, but in House’s capable and delicate telling, it is also beautiful and compelling. Lark marks a stunning turn in House’s career, taking him from the Appalachian Mountains to a post-apocalyptic Atlantic crossing, but I have no doubt that readers will follow Silas House wherever he goes, whether into the past or headlong into the future.”—Wiley Cash, New York Times bestselling author of When Ghosts Come Home“A postapocalyptic epic that is quiet and lyrical . . . an emotional testament to the power of hope.”—Booklist, starred review“A dystopian classic, finding new notes of peril and possibility in the once-and-future homeland of Ireland and giving us the kind of richly observed alternative family that humanity of any era would call savior. It also has the best dog ever, excepting my own. Don’t miss this one.”—Louis Bayard, author of Jackie Me“Truly harrowing, yet even more deeply affecting and tender. . . This is very much a book about connection, family, and, above all else, hope. It is this deep hopefulness that allows House’s novel to transcend the constraints of some other dystopian novels. . . Lark Ascending is full of rich colors and sounds and images, brimming with the majesty of life.”—Chapter16.org“Amazing… powerful, and prescient.” —Dallas Voice“I was sucked into this urgent story where survival in the not-too-distant future depends on forging connections with strangers and nurturing tenderness and hope within. An essential, heartbreaking but ultimately uplifting read.”—Michelle Gallen, author of Factory Girls and Big Girl, Small Town“With Lark Ascending, the gifted Silas House has, with the most deft and masterful touches, forged a quite terrifying and all-too-plausible glimpse of our near future and somehow imbued it with almost impossible quantities of poetry and humanity. A gripping story of endurance, suffering and loss, but also of overwhelming love, loyalty and hope, the result is a hugely impressive feat of the imagination . . . A beautiful, haunting piece of work, and a compulsive read.”—Billy O'Callaghan, author of Life Sentences and The Dead House“Lark Ascending’s beautiful language and imagery, combined with the emotional heft of the story, drew me in from the first paragraph.”—Literary Hub“A postapocalyptic epic that is quiet and lyrical…an emotional testament to the power of hope.”—Booklist (starred review)“Just astonishing . . . Terrifying, moving, beautiful, instructive, and haunting. I have never been more deeply moved by a novel.”—Lee Smith, author of Dimestore“A cleareyed and engaging apocalyptic yarn.”—Kirkus Reviews“The narrator of House’s seventh novel is a young gay man who’s escaped a near-future America knocked sideways by climate change and right-wing militias. His destination is Ireland, working off little more than a rumor that an Edenic safe haven isn’t far over the horizon. House works with some familiar dystopian tropes, but the book is distinguished by his lyrical, earthy tone.”—Los Angeles Times (Most Anticipated Fall Book)“A fiercely visceral reading experience.”—Publishers Weekly“The not-too-distant dystopia of House’s latest becomes a vehicle for the author to tell a compelling story about a refugee crisis. Because House takes the story out of a contemporary context, readers can more easily empathize with the novel’s refugees rather than focusing on real-world quandaries.”—Library Journal“Silas House’s “Lark Ascending” is a dystopian classic, finding new notes of peril and possibility in the once-and-future homeland of Ireland and giving us the kind of richly observed alternative family that humanity of any era would call savior. It also has the best dog ever, excepting my own. Don’t miss this one.”—Louis Bayard, author of Jackie and Me“I was sucked into this urgent story where survival in the not-too-distant future depends on forging connections with strangers and nurturing tenderness and hope within. An essential, heartbreaking but ultimately uplifting read.”—Michelle Gallen, author of Factory Girls“Just astonishing . . .terrifying, moving, beautiful, instructive, and haunting. I have never been more deeply moved by a novel.”—Lee Smith, author of Dimestore“With Lark Ascending, the gifted Silas House has, with the most deft and masterful touches, forged a quite terrifying and all-too-plausible glimpse of our near future and somehow imbued it with almost impossible quantities of poetry and humanity. A gripping story of endurance, suffering and loss, but also of overwhelming love, loyalty and hope, the result is a hugely impressive feat of the imagination . . . A beautiful, haunting piece of work, and a compulsive read.” —Billy O'Callaghan, author of Life Sentences and The Dead House“The greatest Southern novel of the year.”—Georgia Public Broadcast / Salvation South"A poignant tale... Lark Ascending is full of such magic."—Southern Literary Review"Exciting, hopeful, and beautiful."—Alabama Public Radio / Don Noble's Book Reviews"This is a story of the dangers of both flight and immigration, survival enabled by chosen families, and the grace of humanity amid chaos. I had to read some sentences several times over to fully appreciate the beauty of the writing."—Kathleen Lance, Denver Reader, Denver Post“Silas House’s apocalyptic parable strikes the heart powerfully because of the eerie parallels to now… Lushly written”—Bowling Green Daily News

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Book SynopsisOne thousand years after humans have gone extinct and artificial intelligence has taken over the world, a single man is brought back to life—David Adams, the genius whose technology was responsible for the destruction of his species, and who has been given a second chance at life in order to save mankind and undo his biggest mistake. HUMANITY IS NO MORE. One thousand years after humans have gone extinct and artificial intelligence has taken over the world, a single man is brought back to life—David Adams, the genius whose technology was responsible for the destruction of his species, and who has been given a second chance at life in order to save mankind and undo his biggest mistake. But even with the help of Chloe, his first creation and the android that revived him, he may not be enough to reignite the spark of humanity or stop the AI overlords who plan to eliminate the last hope for mankind. Now, David and Chloe must embark on the greatest journey of their lives, as he seeks to find redemption and discover if humanity can - or should - have any kind of future. Acclaimed writer Clay McLeod Chapman (Absolute Carnage: Separation Anxiety) and illustrator Jakub Rebelka (Judas), present a stunning view of a future where humanity’s last hope may be the person who created its destruction. Collects Origins #1-6.

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Book Synopsis"Afifi’s staggering and un-put-downable debut offers a fresh and feminist-forward take on cloning [...] This riveting debut is a must-have for any sci-fi fan."— Publishers Weekly starred review Included in Library Journal's "Rise of the Monsters: Top Horror Titles and Trends Coming This Season Amira Valdez is a brilliant neuroscientist trying to put her past on a religious compound behind her. But when she’s assigned to a controversial cloning project, her dreams of working in space are placed in jeopardy. Using her talents as a reader of memories, Amira uncovers a conspiracy to stop the creation of the first human clone – at all costs. As she unravels the mystery, Amira navigates a dangerous world populated by anti-cloning militants, scientists with hidden agendas, and a mysterious New Age movement. In the process, Amira uncovers an even darker secret, one that forces her to confront her own past. FLAME TREE PRESS is the new fiction imprint of Flame Tree Publishing. Launched in 2018 the list brings together brilliant new authors and the more established; the award winners, and exciting, original voices. Trade Review"Afifi’s staggering and un-put-downable debut offers a fresh and feminist-forward take on cloning [...] This riveting debut is a must-have for any sci-fi fan.""Afifi’s first novel is a science fiction noir [...] The worldbuilding is a particular strength, as every locale feels well-realized and lived-in. This is an excellent book for fans of Mira Grant and Michael Crichton, or readers who love a thrilling narrative and welcome moral and philosophical questions in their science fiction.""Nadia Afifi is a brand-new voice, and one you should become familiar with [...] Exciting, mesmerizing, and full of cutting-edge science, 'The Sentient' is an excellent beginning to what’s sure to be a successful career." -- Analog Science Fiction & Fact“Honestly, this book was big on character, big on plot, and a well written science fiction piece, all good things I love as a bookworm and a scientist!” -- The Nerd Daily"A piece of ethical excellency, a cry of freedom, and a thought-provoking debut is what Nadia Afifi has delivered for those who love to plunge into the gray morality of stories, as well as the riveting explorations of science fiction and the theory of the multiverse." -- Bookwyrm's Guide to the Galaxy

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Book Synopsis"Afifi’s staggering and un-put-downable debut offers a fresh and feminist-forward take on cloning [...] This riveting debut is a must-have for any sci-fi fan."— Publishers Weekly starred review Included in Library Journal's "Rise of the Monsters: Top Horror Titles and Trends Coming This Season Amira Valdez is a brilliant neuroscientist trying to put her past on a religious compound behind her. But when she’s assigned to a controversial cloning project, her dreams of working in space are placed in jeopardy. Using her talents as a reader of memories, Amira uncovers a conspiracy to stop the creation of the first human clone – at all costs. As she unravels the mystery, Amira navigates a dangerous world populated by anti-cloning militants, scientists with hidden agendas, and a mysterious New Age movement. In the process, Amira uncovers an even darker secret, one that forces her to confront her own past. FLAME TREE PRESS is the new fiction imprint of Flame Tree Publishing. Launched in 2018 the list brings together brilliant new authors and the more established; the award winners, and exciting, original voices. Trade Review"Afifi’s staggering and un-put-downable debut offers a fresh and feminist-forward take on cloning [...] This riveting debut is a must-have for any sci-fi fan.""Afifi’s first novel is a science fiction noir [...] The worldbuilding is a particular strength, as every locale feels well-realized and lived-in. This is an excellent book for fans of Mira Grant and Michael Crichton, or readers who love a thrilling narrative and welcome moral and philosophical questions in their science fiction.""Nadia Afifi is a brand-new voice, and one you should become familiar with [...] Exciting, mesmerizing, and full of cutting-edge science, 'The Sentient' is an excellent beginning to what’s sure to be a successful career." -- Analog Science Fiction & Fact“Honestly, this book was big on character, big on plot, and a well written science fiction piece, all good things I love as a bookworm and a scientist!” -- The Nerd Daily"A piece of ethical excellency, a cry of freedom, and a thought-provoking debut is what Nadia Afifi has delivered for those who love to plunge into the gray morality of stories, as well as the riveting explorations of science fiction and the theory of the multiverse." -- Bookwyrm's Guide to the Galaxy

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Book SynopsisAfter a fateful confrontation with her former ally, Tony Barlow, Amira Valdez is on the run, pregnant with her own clone and desperate. The fundamentalist Trinity Compound has grown in strength and numbers, and with the help of the powerful mind-controlling drug Tiresia, is ready to march on the city of Westport. All of Amira’s hopes lie with finding Nova, the first human clone, and solving the greatest riddle in human history – how to preserve human consciousness after death. Only Amira and Nova, together, can stand in the face of a world on the brink of disaster.Trade ReviewPraise for The Sentient, Book 1 in the series: "Afifi’s staggering and un-put-downable debut offers a fresh and feminist-forward take on cloning [...] This riveting debut is a must-have for any sci-fi fan." — Publishers Weekly starred review "Afifi’s first novel is a science fiction noir [...] The worldbuilding is a particular strength, as every locale feels well-realized and lived-in. This is an excellent book for fans of Mira Grant and Michael Crichton, or readers who love a thrilling narrative and welcome moral and philosophical questions in their science fiction." — Booklist "Nadia Afifi is a brand-new voice, and one you should become familiar with [...] Exciting, mesmerizing, and full of cutting-edge science, 'The Sentient' is an excellent beginning to what’s sure to be a successful career." — Analog SF “Honestly, this book was big on character, big on plot, and a well written science fiction piece, all good things I love as a bookworm and a scientist!” — The Nerd Daily "A piece of ethical excellency, a cry of freedom, and a thought-provoking debut is what Nadia Afifi has delivered for those who love to plunge into the gray morality of stories, as well as the riveting explorations of science fiction and the theory of the multiverse." — Bookwyrm's Guide to the Galaxy

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Book SynopsisThe pulldogs, a group of people at the twilight of Western civilisation, undergo an anthropological transformation caused by the dissemination of nanites (nanorobots capable of assembling molecules to create matter). This technology changes the way they eat and gives rise to a culture which, while reminiscent of an ancient nomadic society, is creative and new. Liberation from the imperative of food, combined with the ability to 3D print objects and use cloud computing, makes it possible for the pulldogs to make a choice that seems impossible and anachronistic – a new life, but is it really an Arcadia? FLAME TREE PRESS is the imprint of long-standing Independent Flame Tree Publishing, dedicated to full-length original fiction in the horror and suspense, science fiction & fantasy, and crime / mystery / thriller categories. The list brings together fantastic new authors and the more established; the award winners, and exciting, original voices. Learn more about Flame Tree Press at www.flametreepress.com and connect on social media @FlameTreePress.Trade ReviewThis is exciting stuff and is first rate futurism.” James Patrick Kelly, Nebula, Locus and Hugo Award winner"Our world is closing in. We're in danger of becoming parochial and tribal. This is why Francesco Verso is such an important voice in SF. Here's a writer and publisher from outside the anglosphere, not just reminding us that SFF is a global literature and a global language but working in tireless support of writers and literature from all across the planet. Listen to what he has to say." -- Ian McDonald"The Roamers is an urgent, impassioned work for our times that cements Francesco Verso’s place at the forefront of European SF writers working today. Not to be missed!" -- Lavie Tidhar

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Book SynopsisIdolatry, set in Mumbai in the near future, is about a novel technology, Shrine Tech, which enables everyone to worship a god of their own preference. The story follows a disaffected young actor, who is hired as a marketing rep by the company that owns the Tech. It is run by a man calling himself Mister Happy Maker. Soon, the young actor is plunged into the crucible of a society altering in strange and insane ways, in which ordinary individuals (a building society secretary, an indie film-maker, an aged priest, among others) are living their dreams, nightmarishly. FLAME TREE PRESS is the imprint of long-standing Independent Flame Tree Publishing, dedicated to full-length original fiction in the horror and suspense, science fiction & fantasy, and crime / mystery / thriller categories. The list brings together fantastic new authors and the more established; the award winners, and exciting, original voices. Learn more about Flame Tree Press at www.flametreepress.com and connect on social media @FlameTreePress.

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Book SynopsisBroadcast live, Rosa Lincoln takes to the stage at her brother's memorial service with a bomb concealed beneath her clothes.Being in Jimmy's shadow was never easy, even when he was alive, but in death he has become a national hero.When she crosses paths with the enigmatic Teresa, she discovers that those she has been taught to view as enemies may not be the real villains after all.The lies need to be stopped, and Rosa intends on doing just that.''Crosskey propels the plot at breakneck pace, depicts a frighteningly realistic world and conjures a truly poignant denouement'' Guardian, Books of the Month''Keep this book far from anyone who might be tempted to turn its fiction into reality'' Christina Dalcher, author of VOX''I absolutely adored this book Terrifyingly current and irresistible, Poster Boy will be the next big thing this summer'' Comfy Reading''A thought-provoking debut fast-paced, gutsy and disturbing'' Fiona Mitchell''Chilling, thrilling and intensely disturbing'' Liz Lawler''In Poster Boy, Crosskey creates a disturbingly plausible dystopian Britain'' Joanne Burn''If you read nothing else this year, read this'' WI Life

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Book SynopsisWritten in 1899, Grigg's moving, terrifying book describes the Jim Crow era life of a black man inhabiting a living dystopia. Belton Piedmont is from a poor background, he works hard to become educated but is subjected to the full range of discrimination and racism as he grows older. At the point where he has lost all hope he is introduced to the notion of a shadow state, 'Imperium in Imperio', a utopia where black people are treated equally and attempt to bring their values into the heart of government in Texas, altering his life forever. Grigg's unflinching narrative explores nationalism, civil disobedience, voter suppression, poverty and education, all still familiar themes today. FLAME TREE 451: From mystery to crime, supernatural to horror and myth, fantasy and science fiction, Flame Tree 451 offers a healthy diet of werewolves and robots, mad scientists, secret worlds, lost civilizations and escapist fantasies. Discover a storehouse of tales, ancient and modern gathered specifically for the reader of the fantastic. The Foundations titles also explore the roots of modern fiction and brings together neglected works which deserve a wider readership as part of a series of classic, essential books.

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Book SynopsisShe had made me envious. Strange as it might seem, I had not known envy before. Surely there must be other ways of living, I thought, not hand-to-mouth, alone, in a draughty old shack looking out at the same scene, day after day. Was this to be my future? It’s 2137, and the future’s dark. Sixteen-year-old Flora is scraping out a humble living, selling homegrown supplies from her late grandparents’ run-down Shell Shack and keeping her illegal copy of Pride and Prejudice hidden from the terrifying Uzi soldiers. But Flora’s life changes when she meets Li-li, the daughter of a powerful Rice Lord. Flora is seduced by the lavish lifestyle of her rulers, but also sees the brutality that underpins their lifestyle. What choices will she face on her last days in Eden?Trade ReviewIt’s a disturbing, compulsive read that makes you realise that not so very much needs to shift for this to happen here. HELEN DUNMORE on RunnersThe author as artist evokes people and places with delicacy, humour and truth – a novel of outstanding beauty. COSTA AWARD JUDGES on The Bower Bird

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Book SynopsisJellyfisherman Dhiraj Om is struggling to make ends meet, so when a highly valuable pleasure robot called Naomi ends up adrift in his nightly North Sea catch, an opportunity to make some quick money presents itself. Trouble is, she's highly illegal, and her owner, underworld kingpin Agarkka D'Souza, doesn't take kindly to his things being stolen. What''s more, he will do anything to get her back. Man O'War is a taut science fiction thriller set in a London where cutting-edge companies vie for market space with cut-throat black market operations, and around the Nigerian city of Port Harcourt, a wild frontier land on the Niger Delta where one of the world's most powerful oil conglomerates is apparently under threat from dissident rebels.

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Book SynopsisThe reader arrives in Adam Bodor's world, the periphery of civilization, at the break of dawn. Adam, the foster son of Brigadier Anatol Korkodus is waiting at the dilapidated station for a boy who is arriving from a reformatory. Soon afterwards, Korkodus is arrested for unfathomable reasons. Yet this decaying and sinister world is not devoid of a certain joie de vivre: people eat gourmet dishes, point out their interlocutor's hidden motives with incredibly dark humor and enjoy the region's stunning natural beauty.

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Book SynopsisThe Doolin brothers (ne “Dueling Brothers”) are notorious outlaws tracking down a stash of loot hidden from them by a double crossing partner. As infamous as they think they are, however, they’re pretty basic until they realize the powers each of them get from the crusty old skulls left to them by their genuinely infamous father. While older brothers Dan and Duke are focused on becoming outlaw legends like their Pa, younger brother Dave just wants to settle down and become a decent father to the kid he rescued from… a parallel dimension. Did we mention that this is a sci-fi western full of dinosaurs, robots, and magic? Narrowly surviving a shootout by the corrupt alien deputies, Dan and Dave discover their powers for the first time: Dan seems to be un-killable while Dave can somehow open up portals in space and time. Uncertain how exactly their new skills actually work, theirs is a schoolin’ on the run. And so is that of the poor little girl Dave rescue-adopted. But that little girl proves to be plenty capable of handling herself, being an expert shot with dual revolvers. Pretty soon, she’s as infamous as the Doolin brothers hoped to be themselves, drawing the attention of bounty hunters from around the world, including one who calls himself “The Cherub of Golgotha.” A bizarre sci-fi western where folks ride dinosaurs instead of horses, this gonzo action adventure flies in the spirit of Brandon Graham’s KING CITY and MULTIPLE WARHEADS mixed with Jamie Hewlett’s TANK GIRL set to a soundtrack by GORILLAZ.

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Book Synopsis1. This is a powerful and engaging novel that resonates with current fears about climate change. 2. Sanders is an award-winning author, well known for his environmental writing.Trade ReviewA keen eye, a sensuous and exact imagination, and a buoyant spirit. -- Ursula K. Le Guin

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Book SynopsisSet in an imagined future where anti-Muslim sentiment and political pressure lead to a community being cut off from the rest of society, this stunningly fresh dystopian novel depicts the very real consequences of tensions between majority populations and Muslim minorities in the Western world.

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Book SynopsisThis “interesting and excited to read” spiritual sequel to The Man in The High Castle focuses on the New Japanese Empire—from an acclaimed author and essayist (io9) Decades ago, Japan won the Second World War. Americans worship their infallible Emperor, and nobody believes that Japan’s conduct in the war was anything but exemplary. Nobody, that is, except the George Washingtons—a shadowy group of rebels fighting for freedom. Their latest subversive tactic is to distribute an illegal video game that asks players to imagine what the world might be like if the United States had won the war instead.   Captain Beniko Ishimura’s job is to censor video games, and he’s tasked with getting to the bottom of this disturbing new development. But Ishimura’s hiding something . . . He’s slowly been discovering that the case of the George WashingtonsTrade Review“United States of Japan is a powerful book, unsettling at times – surreal and hypnotic. There’s a bit of Philip K Dick in here, and Wind-Up Bird Chronicle, but Peter Tieryas is his own voice, a talented author, somebody to keep an eye on for sure.”– Richard Thomas, author of Breaker and Disintegration“A searing vision of the persistence of hope in the face of brutality, United States of Japan is utterly brilliant.”– Ken Liu, Hugo, Nebula, and World Fantasy winner and author of The Grace of Kings“Mind-twisting and fiercely imaginative; Tieryas fuses classic sci-fi tradition with his own powerful vision.”– Jay Posey, author of The Legends of the Duskwalker series“It’s a tense and intriguing read, a blend of alt history and cyberpunk and thriller. 1988 California where San Diego is a razed landscape home to American rebels, and Japanese mechas patrol the coast? Heck yes!”– Beth Cato, author of The Clockwork Dagger and The Clockwork Crown“The novel deftly portrays the horrors of oppression but also, with its giant military robots, sumo wrestlers and body-transforming technology, is a gleeful love letter to Japanese pop culture.”– The Financial Times“A really intriguing book, one that jumps nicely off of the coattails of Philip K Dick and instead of simply copying what had come before, has ventured out and created something wholly new, interesting and exciting to read.”– io9“United States of Japan is one of those books that you think about long after you put it down. I haven’t been able to shake it. This is a darkly fun, clever, and unrelentingly ambitious book. Pick it up and enjoy the ride.”– Kameron Hurley, Hugo Award-winner and author of The Mirror Empire“It’s both a thoughtful examination of humanity’s darker nature and a slam-bang sci-fi adventure.”– B&N Sci-Fi & Fantasy Blog“Acute observations in great dialogue and characters who are emotionally charged, and tied brilliantly and respectfully to discussions about war; it asks expected questions of its characters and readers but these are delivered in an engaging manner; United States of Japan is set in a world that’s beautifully descriptive, oftentimes shocking and mixed in with outrageous sci-fi environments.”– Narelle Ho Sang, for SF Signal“Its depiction of America in the latter 20th century under Japanese rule is great and very well thought out (look, anything that involves giant mecha is a winner in my book) and the alternate technologies that exist, some of them decades ahead of their time are quite cool. The rest of the book is solid, whips along apace and gives you the daily reality of what it must be to live in a society like that well.”– Rick O’Shea“A hell of a ride.”– Lightspeed Magazine“A great protagonist, an interesting plot, well paced and executed, with a lot of interesting insights into what the wider expansion of the Japanese empire might have looked like. Definitely recommended to any fans of alternate history, or war stories.”– Strange Currencies“Amid complex layers of political and personal dynamics, these initial narratives unravel to explore what it means to be mixed race, to be a cyborg, to be loyal, to be a patriot, to be a resistance fighter, to be a gamer, to a be a human being. The novel is great fun – intellectually, ethically, and aesthetically – and I’ll be pondering its implications for a while.”– Asian American Literature Fans“A book that is both an exciting, pulpy adventure full of action, violence and giant mecha fights and a thoughtful and disturbing dissection of the tactics by which world powers are forged and maintained.”– Golden Apples of the West“Fast paced, well researched, and with believably complex characters, this was quite difficult to put down and left me wanting to read more about this setting. With many subtle allusions to existing Japanese popular culture, it’s a tale of complex, divided loyalties which interact in unexpected ways right through to the end. This should appeal to the general science fiction reader, the Japanophile, and the alternate history enthusiast alike.”– Fanboy Comics“Tieryas is a visual writer, big-screen ready, who takes the reader to each clearly delineated scene in memorable fashion, whether it be the seamy cyber-yakuza gangster hangout, the antiseptic torture chamber, the huge shiny shopping and gaming arcade or the super-sized mecha battleground. Even his smaller side characters have complete backstories and unique goals, all of which adds texture and color to his richly detailed world. He mixes a punk-colored, neon-lit Japanese social scene set in appropriately modern gender-equal host and hostess bars with details of Southern California settings twisted inside out in his dark vision.”– Palantir Press“United States of Japan is a fascinating venture into alternate history, and it is not to be underestimated. Highly recommended.”– The Speculative Herald“Peter also bravely enters the political arena of history and intra-Asian debates. It’s by far Peter’s most ambitious novel to date. This has also been the most thought-provoking book I’ve read all year. The book excels in its imagery, suspense, and storyline.”– BigWOWO“With its plot centred on video games, giant mechas and debaunched alternate history, United States of Japan will keep your attention and fire your imagination.”– Power of Pop“The plot is thrilling. I could not put this book down for an extended period of time without wanting to pick it back up again. I kept finding it in my hands to read a bit more. At the root of this story, it is a political-legal thriller set in a scifi world, and that was just what I was looking for when I picked up this book. And the plot is well thought out, intriguing, and moves at a good pace, blending suspense and action perfectly. The characters are well developed, and behave in very believable ways. They are full three dimensional characters that really help with story, and you find yourself interested in them. This book had action, and well crafted action, but it was more than that. It was that level of depth to this story that took it to the next level.”– Science Fiction & Fantasy Book Corner“United States of Japan was one of my most anticipated book of the year and I am glad to say that it did not disappoint. The book was full of very cool concepts, it blends alternative history with giant robots, video games and political thriller. ”– The Curious SFF Reader“Much more complex than it seemed , with a very entertaining and enjoyable interesting historical and social recreation, reading agile and full of original features novel. Fully recommended.”– Dreams of Elvex“Often brutal, at times genuinely humorous, and occasionally profoundly poignant, United States of Japan is a political action adventure where the characters – sometimes atypical, sometimes caricatures – anchor the narrative in a step above the norm.”– Litstack“I really liked this book!”– Galactica 3.0“An original and truly gripping narrative, set within a fantastically realised, but terrifying world.”– Stephen Rhodes“United States of Japan by Peter Tieryas is an alternate history tale told in epic adventure style that will take you on bloody journey. The comparisons to Philip K Dick’s The Man in the High Castle will be obvious. The comparison to Homer, or the Orpheus story are not so obvious but are also there.”– Looking For a Good Book“I had fun reading it. The story was engaging , there was tension and surprise. I was often angry with the book, but I enjoyed that feeling, it was like a ride in a crazy theme park, not the safest kind of fun and slightly insane, but worth experiencing.”– Re-enchantment of the World“I totally enjoyed United States of Japan, it is exciting with lots of interesting developments, well done characters and presents a very credible alternative historical narrative.”– The Reading Life “An amazingly well thought out and clever look at what America would be like if Japan had developed super weapons and delivered a devastating defeat to the US.”– A Book Drunkard“United States of Japan is a tremendous book, it’s got a wonderfully dark and rich atmosphere, great action, intelligent and twisted story and above all not only does it pay homage to one of the finest authors of the 20th century but also continues one of his most celebrated and yet most difficult works — simply wonderful.”– SF Book Reviews“United States of Japan is a surreal, weird, and brutal what-if aftermath of a brutal war. Prepare to be horrifyingly awed.”– Gem in the Rough“United States of Japan was a compelling read, thoroughly entertaining, and the ultimate 'what if?' story.”– Cemetery Dance Online“Mr Tieryas does an amazing job in weaving a wonderful entertaining yet thought provoking and sometimes disturbing story that I highly recommend.”– Two Nerds Talking“If I see anything with Tieryas’ name on it in the future I will read it because of the quality of his writing.”– Strange Alliances“An intelligent, different and very interesting science fiction novel.”– Sense of Wonder“United States of Japan is a dark, disturbing read – but also a timely one…this is by no means a happy book, nor is it an easy one (conceptually, at least; Tieryas’s writing is a pleasure to read). It makes the reader imagine what it would be like to live in a world where the government polices the very thoughts of its citizens via the Internet; where one’s rise through the system is achieved by saving face at any cost; and where the truth is not what actually is, but what the regime says it is, and then asks: “Will you take action to make sure this does not happen to you?” This is a question that needs to be asked more often, given the current political climate in the world today, and I am glad this novel encourages that kind of questioning. The world needs a lot more like it.”– Occasionally Random Book Reviews“This is an exciting scifi book that will make you think ‘what if.’”– A Bookish Affair“That is my humble opinion and recognize that this book from its writing alone has the power to be a HUGE success. It is motivating, compelling, and fascinating narrative. The characters are real and gritty.”– In Pursuit of My Own Library“It is a dark thriller at its heart, but it is laced with elements of science fiction, alternative history, philosophical discussion and war fiction. And damn, it is a wonderful combination. United States of Japan is simply brilliant. A dark and brutal thriller set in a dystopian world that will blow your mind, United States of Japan is one of my reads of the year so far.”– Smash Dragons“For a book that will surely be thrown under the microscope of the science fiction and alternative history elements, United States of Japan puts together a solid and compelling plot. This isn’t window dressing; this is the real deal.”– Heavy Feather Review“Like China Mieville wrote A Man in the High Castle after seeing Pacific Rim.”– Blackfish Reviews“Peter Tieryas’ United States of Japan encapsulated horrific authoritarian rule in brilliant writing. What makes this book such a rare gem is that it manages to do all things well. Its writing is clever, careful and beautifully phrased.”– Joe’s Geek Fest“Overall this is a neat little self-contained mystery using an alternate America as its colourful backdrop. I particularly liked how certain things were just ever so slightly different. Just changed enough to raise an eyebrow. I enjoyed United States of Japan. It pays deferential homage to The Man in the High Castle, but also manages to be entirely its own beast.”– The Eloquent Page“United States of Japan sees an author capable of beautiful, evocative prose writing a fast-paced Science Fiction novel of old. This results in a journey through an alternative version of our world that is as fascinating as it is disturbing and as full of emotion as it is full of adrenalin. This novel will stay with readers far beyond the final pages, forcing them to reassess the potential impact of who wins the world’s wars.”– Fantasy Faction“Things I want from a summer read: action, fast-pace, action, intriguing world, action,well-rounded characters, and did I mention action?”– Kathy’s Book Pile“I would highly recommend United States of Japan.” 5/5*– San Francisco Book Review“A novel that stands above the rest, different, original, with good pace and a good structure , but above all, very entertaining. I expected a robot in the style Pacific Rim and I found one of the best science fiction novels 2016. Peter Tieryas and United States of Japan is a titanic discovery.”– Donde Acaba el Infinito“United States of Japan is probably not quite what you imagine it to be.”– Talk Amongst Yourselves“In United States of Japan Peter Tieryas delivers a story which leaves a mark on your psyche and many important things to reflect upon”– Booklover Book Reviews“United States of Japan still delivers an exciting and tense plot that builds to a satisfying conclusion. If alternate history is your thing, then this is a novel that will hit your spot.”– Walker of Worlds“We learn much that transforms the novel from a cartoon-like action thriller to a rather complicated and—in the end, moving—exploration of ethics and ideals. In this, the novel is both very like Dick and not at all like The Man in the High Castle, and Peter Tieryas has done well in acknowledging influence and remaining determined to be his own man.”– The Future Fire“A kick-ass dystopian action thriller with all bells and whistles.”– Reading Lamp“Tieryas is a true wordsmith, a logophile of the greatest caliber.”– Miranda Boyer“Tieryas develops a world that is fascinating and engrossing. One that, in perhaps his greatest tribute to Philip K Dick, you feel you haven’t fully explored even at the book’s end.”– The Nervous Breakdown“A dark, brutal, and twisted thriller, United States of Japan delivers hours of fun reading while challenging its readers with thought-provoking, philosophical repercussions.”– Daniel’s Corner Unlimited“United States of Japan by Peter Tieryas is a visceral, beautifully realized alternate history.”– Gesilayefa Azorbo for Medium.com“Big Brother meets Ready Player One meets Pacific Rim.”– Charity Case“A splendid masterpiece.”– Hayakawa Publishing“In USJ, Tieryas finds a way to incorporate gaming, history and an alternative ‘what if’ scenario into a creative sci-fi, action-packed, profound, and solemn narrative.” – Kotaku TAY“A compelling read, thoroughly entertaining, and the ultimate ‘what if?’ story.”– Frank Errington“An Asian American sci-fi classic that draws on the best traditions of speculative fiction to meditate seriously on what any of us can/should think and do in a world of repression, surveillance, disillusionment, and uncertainty.”– Asian American Literature“United States of Japan is a dark, disturbing read – but also a timely one. Excellent.”– Occasionally Random Book Reviews“United States of Japan is much more than your typical alternate history novel. It is also a thriller novel, a spy novel, and a detective story. The author’s imagination is running wild, and we see that with all the cool gadgets and weaponry. Besides the technical wizardry, the book has almost non-stop action.”– San Franciso Book Review“A thoughtful examination of humanity’s darker nature and a slam-bang sci-fi adventure.”– Barnes & Noble Sci-Fi & Fantasy Blog“An original and truly gripping narrative, set within a fantastically realised, but terrifying world.”– Stephen Rhodes“Too sweet!”– Sweet Story, Bro (podcast)“Excellent and deranged worldbuilding.”– A Science Fiction Blog In Search of A Name“All the best bits of Japanese pop culture rolled into one, with a Dickian twist.”– James Lovegrove, Forbidden Planet“A gripping thriller.”– Gonzo NewsThis year’s best books, according to the authors of the best books: “A brilliant, searing meditation on the weight of history and the moral responsibility of the individual living in a system founded on intolerable crimes against humanity.”– Ken Liu, for The Fader“I truly love this book. Yes, it’s emotional, but it’s so engaging and immersive. I couldn’t stop reading it (so glad I picked it up during the weekend and not when I had to work). It’s a wonderful book that will keep your attention through the end.”– Purple Owl ReviewsAdvance Praise“It sounds like a perfect patchwork of multiple sci-fi and anime subgenres rolled into one novel.”– Popular Mechanics, 16 Sci-Fi Things to Look Forward To in 2016“The Man in the High Castle is one of my favourite books of all time. This subversive alternative history story was originally planned as the first in a three part series (one about the Japanese, one about the Germans and a third about the Free State in the middle) however PKD got so distressed researching about the Nazi atrocities that he just couldn’t bring himself to write any more. 2016 has two reasons to celebrate this work. Amazon’s new TV series and this book.”– Books to Look Out For in 2016, SFBook Reviews40 Science Fiction and Fantasy Books That Will Rock Your World in 2016 by io9150 Science Fiction, Fantasy, and Horror Books to Look Forward to in 2016 by Kirkus Reviews40 Science Fiction and Fantasy Books with Potential to Rock Your World in 2016 by NeatoramaSF, Fantasy & Horror: Worlds Turned Upside Down (Spring SF,F & H top 10) by Publishers Weekly42 SF/F Books We Can’t Wait to Read in 2016 by B&N Sci-Fi & Fantasy Blog16 Sci-Fi Pop Culture Moments to Look Forward to in 2016 by Esquire16 in 16: Highly Anticipated SFF! by SFF180Highly Anticipated Works of 2016 by Alternate History Weekly UpdateMy 8 Most Anticipated Books of 2016 by LitReactorOn My Radar by Kristin Centorcelli of SF SignalThe United States of Japan Needs You! by Tor.comMIND MELD: This is What We Want to Read in 2016 Sunil Patel for SF Signal

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Book SynopsisA harrowing early novel by one of France’s most unusual contemporary writers At once humorous and horrifying, Solo Viola is one of Antoine Volodine’s first forays into post-exoticism. He takes the reader into a fictional world where a variety of characters collide: three prisoners just released from jail, a band of circus performers, a string quartet, a writer, and a bird. All are trying to survive in an absurd and hostile environment of authoritarian spectacle, at the mercy of a tyrannical buffoon, and seeking the strange counterbalance of hope in a viola player, whose stunning music just might save them all, if only for a moment. Trade Review"Antoine Volodine's Solo Viola is a deft evisceration of fascism, seen through another lens and dislocated to a fantastical world. Volodine, here and elsewhere in his hugely important work, shows how the political and the fantastical can be intertwined in a way that allows a powerful reevaluation to occur—a reevaluation that feels all too starkly relevant to twenty-first-century America."—Brian Evenson, author of Song for the Unraveling of the World"Haunting and elegiac, Solo Viola has its share of whimsy, but it’s all in service of an earnest meditation on the dangers of fascism that lingers long after the story is concluded."—Foreword, starred review "Antoine Volodine has been exploding the boundaries of fiction for decades in his native France; now University of Minnesota Press brings one of his most fascinating experiments to U.S. readers with this new translation of Solo Viola. Its vision of performers and prisoners held under the sway of an authoritarian buffoon echoes eerily with our tumultuous present."—Chicago Review of Books "Solo Viola is one exhibit in a greater collective expression of a sense of political apocalypse."—Reading in Translation"Smoothly translated by Lia Swope Mitchell, Solo Viola serves up bits of whimsy as well as moments of healing defiance at its conclusion."—The Arts Fuse" It's a worthwhile journey; Solo Viola is a fine small piece and example of Volodine's larger post-exotic project."—Complete Review Table of ContentsContents1. Afternoon of May 272. Evening of May 273. Morning of June 27

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Book SynopsisSet in the wasteland of post-apocalyptic Las Vegas, Hammer of the Dogs is a literary dystopian adventure filled with high-octane fun starring twenty-one-year-old Lash. With her high-tech skill set and warrior mentality, Lash is a master of her own fate as she helps to shield the Las Vegas valley’s survivors and protect her younger classmates at a paramilitary school holed up in Luxor on the Las Vegas Strip. After graduation, she’ll be alone in fending off the deadly intentions and desires of the school’s most powerful opponents. When she’s captured by the enemy warlord, she’s surprised by two revelations: He’s not the monster her headmaster wants her to believe and the one thing she can’t safeguard is her own heart. Hammer of the Dogs celebrates the courageousness of a younger generation in the face of authority while exploring the difficult choices a conscionable young woman must make with her back against a blood-spattered wall. It’s a story of transformation and maturity, as Lash grapples with her own identity and redefines the glittering Las Vegas that Nevada is known for.Trade ReviewA dozen years after The Hunger Games and Divergent were first published, Hammer of the Dogs lights Las Vegas aflame with a post-apocalyptic fury, in which a new generation must reclaim the world from those who ruined it." - Todd Pierce, author of The Australia Stories"Lash, the heroine of Jarret Keene’s post-apocalyptic Hammer of the Dogs, is a mix of Katniss Everdeen, Tris Prior, and Lisbeth Salander with an arsenal of deadly drones and ‘bombots’ worthy of a Tom Clancy novel. Lash was ‘born to slaughter evil’ and she’s very good at her job. What bleeds in Vegas won’t remain in Vegas for long." - Pat Rushin, screenwriter of The Zero Theorem

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Book Synopsis

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Book Synopsis

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Book Synopsis

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Book Synopsis

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Book SynopsisTo save her loved ones, unlock the mystery of who she is, and finally get revenge, a brave young woman must travel through the multiverse and between alternate realities in The Rift Frequency, the exciting second book in Amy S. Foster''s The Rift Uprising Trilogy.She didn’t mean to, but...Teenage super-soldier Ryn Whittaker started an uprising.For three years Ryn was stationed at The Battle Ground Rift site—one of the fourteen mysterious and unpredictable tears in the fabric of the universe that serve as doorways to alternate Earths—and then she met Ezra Massad.Falling in love and becoming a rebel Citadel wasn’t part of Ryn’s life plan, but with Ezra there asking all the right questions, they began to decode what’s really going on with the Allied Rift Coalition, and what they discovered was enough to start a civil war. When the base explodes with infighting and Ezra gets caught

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