Science fiction: space opera

Book SynopsisThe specter of the meancing Grand Admiral Thrawn looms over Luke Skywalker and Mara Jade as they embark on a journey to recover an important piece of Jedi history.Sometimes it seems a Jedi's work is never done and Luke and Mara Jade Skywalker know this only too well. Despite the bond they share in the Force, after three years of marriage the Jedi Master and his wife are still learning the ropes of being a couple-and struggling to find time together between the constant demands of duty. But all that will change when they're united on an unexpected mission: They must pool their exceptional skills to combat an insidious enemy and salvage a part of Jedi history.Whatever may await, the Skywalkers will not face it alone. Joining them on the strange and solemn journey are an officer of the post-Palpatine Empire, escorted by a detachment of Imperial stormtroopers; a party of diplomats from a gentle alien species that reveres the fallen Jedi for saving them from bloodthirsty conquerors; and a New Republic ambassador who harbors his own mysterious agenda.Soon enough, suspicion, secrecy, and an unknown saboteur run rampant aboard the isolated ship. But it is within the derelict walls of Outbound Flight itself, buried for half a century on a desolate planetoid, where the gravest danger lies. As the marooned hulk yields up stunning revelations and unexpected terrors to its visitors, Luke and Mara find all they stand for-and their very existence-brutally challenged. And the ultimate test will be surviving the deathtrap carefully laid by foes who are legendary for their ruthlessness . . . and determined to complete the job Thrawn began: exterminating the Jedi.

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Book SynopsisThe Definitive Nemesis the Warlock series collects the stories of one of 2000 AD's most iconic characters in chronological order, featuring reformatted artwork that enhances the detail on every page.The penultimate volume in the Definitive Nemesis the Warlock series sees the cosmic conflict between Nemesis and Torquemada continue to unfold across the history of time and space. Chasing after the dangerous Thoth, Nemesis, Purity and Torquemada race backwards through time to try and claim him first. But time-travel has consequences for the whole of reality, and Thoth's presence causes ruptures which threaten existence itself! Written by Pat Mills, this mind-bending volume of Definitive Nemesis features art by John Hicklenton (Heavy Metal Dredd), Carl Critchlow (Batman/Judge Dredd), and Kevin O'Neill (A.B.C. Warriors, Metalzoic).

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Book SynopsisA truly phenomenal, breathtaking debut science-fiction novel of the highest order.

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Book SynopsisInfinity Engine is the third and final novel in the Transformation trilogy by bestselling science fiction author Neal Asher, following Dark Intelligence and War Factory.A man battles for his life, two AIs vie for supremacy and a civilization hangs in the balance . . .Several forces now pursue rogue artificial intelligence Penny Royal, hungry for revenge or redemption. And the Brockle is the most dangerous of all. This criminal swarm-robot AI has escaped confinement and is upgrading itself, becoming ever more powerful in anticipation of a showdown.Events also escalate aboard the war factory. Here Thorvald Spear, alien prador, and an assassin drone struggle to stay alive, battling insane AIs and technology gone wild. Then the Weaver arrives - last remnant of a race that died out two million years ago. But what could it contribute to Penny Royal's tortuous plans?And beyond the war factory a black hole conceals a tantalizing secret which could destroy the Polity. As AIs, humans and prador clash at its boundary, will anything survive their explosive final confrontation?'Transcends the borders of morality, existence, and spacetime itself' – Publishers WeeklyTrade ReviewAsher completes his Transformation series with this powerful work that transcends the borders of morality, existence, and spacetime itself . . . Asher imagines incredible beings wielding vast alien technologies, devastating space battles, and mind-blowing science, but all ultimately hinges on Thorvald Spear and his very human choices -- Publishers WeeklyMind-bending tech, creatures, and action generate a hot-blooded plot overlaid with a smart coolness of writing that has gained Neal Asher recognition in the SF/F community as one of the strongest space opera authors -- RisingShadowA stunning conclusion to the Transformation series . . . A mind-blowingly brilliant read! -- WorldsinInk

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Book SynopsisFrom the #1 New York Times bestselling author Brandon Sanderson comes the final book in an epic series about a girl who will travel beyond the stars to save the world she loves from destruction.Spensa made it out of the Nowhere, but what she saw in the space between the stars has changed her forever. She came face to face with the Delvers, and finally got answers to the questions she''s had about her own strange Cytonic gifts. The Superiority didn''t stop in it''s fight for galactic dominance while she was gone, though. Spensa''s team, Skyward Flight, was able to hold Winzik off, and even collect allies to help with the cause, but it''s only a matter of time until humanity - and the rest of the galaxy - falls. Defeating them will require all the knowledge Spensa gathered while in the Nowhere. But being Cytonic is more complicated than she ever could have imagined. Now, Spensa must ask herself: how far is she willing to go for victory, if it means losing herseTrade Reviewanother brisk YA fantasy from Sanderson - inventive, action-stuffed and surprising until the end * SFX *Secrets intensify this ripping yarn, which is crammed with peril, thrills and snappy dialogue * Daily Mail *Brandon Sanderson is the most immersive fantasy writer I've ever encountered * Ben Aaronovitch *Skyward is an adventure and a half that you won't want to miss. Even hardcore Cosmere fans will enjoy the special mix of fantasy and sci-fi that unfolds as you watch Spensa learn what it means to be truly brave. * TOR.COM *Steelheart is the literature equivalent of a blockbuster; episodic and fast-paced with surprises around every turn. * SCI FI NOW *Full of action * THE SUN *All the main characteristics of a Sanderson novel from a writer at the top of his game. * FANTASY BOOK REVIEW *With this action-packed trilogy opener, Sanderson offers up a resourceful, fearless heroine and a memorable cast-including a strangely humorous, mushroom-obsessed robot-set against the backdrop of a desperate conflict. As the pulse-pounding story intensifies and reveals its secrets, a cliffhanger ending sets things up for the next instalment. * PUBLISHERS WEEKLY *as always, Brandon Sanderson creates a unique and interesting universe we get to explore alongside the protagonist...a fun, action packed ride for those of us who remain a child at heart. * Best Fantasy Books *The world of The Reckoners is suddenly presented in all its glory. It's an incredibly vibrant setting that showcases the entire breadth of Sanderson's talent. Expect to finish this one in single sitting. * Upcoming 4 Me *The stories are complex, fascinating, and filled to the brim with three-dimensional characters * Fantasy Book Review *Firefight is a visual, almost cinematic novel * Buzzy Mag *Firefight is a rollercoaster ride of action, entertainment, and humour * Smash Dragons *Firefight is filled with a spine-tingling adventure and heart-racing action that promises to satisfy fans both new and old * Fantasy Book Critic *Steelheart is the literature equivalent of a blockbuster; episodic and fast-paced with surprises around every turn. * SCI FI NOW *A terrifically tall tale, packaging the superhero action into compelling, punchy chapters that keep you reading. It's a fast, feisty read with characters that are skillfully drawn, assassinations, gunfights, physics bending motorcycle chases and a world you can't wait to hear more about. * SFX *Full of action * THE SUN *

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Book Synopsis'Of power, I could tell you much. One must seize the moment, and strike.' Grand Moff Wilhuff TarkinHe's the scion of an honourable and revered family. A dedicated soldier and distinguished legislator. Loyal proponent of the Republic and trusted ally of the Jedi Order. Groomed by the ruthless politician and Sith Lord who would be Emperor, Governor Wilhuff Tarkin rises through the Imperial ranks, enforcing his authority ever more mercilessly...and zealously pursuing his destiny as the architect of absolute dominion. Rule through the fear of force rather than force itself, he advises the Emperor. Under Tarkin's guidance, an ultimate weapon of unparalleled destruction moves ever closer to becoming a terrifying reality. When the so-called Death Star is completed, Tarkin is confident that the galaxy's lingering pockets of Separatist rebellion will be brought to heel - by intimidation or annihilation.Until then, insurgency remains a genuine threat. Escalating guerrilla attacks by resistance forces and new-found evidence of a growing Separatist conspiracy are an immediate danger the Empire must meet with swift and brutal action. And to bring down a band of elusive freedom fighters, the Emperor turns to his most formidable agents: Darth Vader, the fearsome new Sith enforcer as remorseless as he is mysterious, and Tarkin - whose tactical cunning and cold-blooded efficiency will pave the way for the Empire's supremacy...and its enemies' extinction.Trade ReviewIn short, this is a very, very good book. * Jedi News *

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Book SynopsisThe second original novel tying into the critically acclaimed and much-missed Firefly series from creator Joss Whedon. The second original novel from the much-missed Space Western Firefly, produced with Joss Whedon as consulting editor, set between the TV series and the movie Serenity. A cosmic cry for help Captain Mal Reynolds is in a fix. He'd like nothing more than to find honest smuggling work that stays under the Alliance's radar and keeps the good ship Serenity in the sky. But when an old flame of Jayne Cobb's sends a desperate plea across the galaxy, his crew has other ideas. A cut-throat bandit On the arid, far-flung world of Thetis, the terrifying Elias Vandal is threatening to overrun the town of Coogan's Bluff with his trigger-happy army. He wants control of the only thing standing between its people and dustbowl ruin: their water supply. The Magnificent Nine When the crew land at the hardscrabble desert outpost, they discover two things: a savage outlaw gang who will stop at nothing to get what they want, and that Jayne's former girlfriend, Temperance, is singlehandedly raising a teenage daughter, born less than a year after she and Jayne parted ways. A daughter by the name of Jane McCloud...Trade Review"charming" - SyFy "Titan Books is two for two as far as I'm concerned...they are doing a killer job of leaving you wanting whatever comes next." - Nerds on Earth "What a sheer delight of a book!" - The Frumious Consortium "I love that the series is continuing in novels. And this latest installment is a great addition" - SciFi Chick

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Book SynopsisIn a world devoid of hope, is revenge the only way out?The Argus Space Station looks down on a nightmarish Earth. And from here, the Committee enforces its despotic rule. It governs a corrupt world, where the poor are starving – and are policed by mechanized overseers wielding identity-reader guns. There are also too many people and too few resources, so the Committee has decided twelve billion people must die. So they prepare to unleash the full power of their Station’s weaponry to make this happen. Alan Saul wakes to this world, confined in a crate bound for a Calais incinerator. He doesn’t know why he’s there; he only remembers pain and his tormentor’s face. And he has company: Janus, a rogue intelligence, who is inhabiting forbidden hardware in his skull. As Janus shows his host a damaged Earth, Saul resolves to discover who he was – and kill his interrogator. Next he will take on the Committee and topple their debased regime.The Departure is the first fast-paced book in the Owner trilogy by acclaimed science fiction author Neal Asher.'Delivers plenty of thrills' – SFX'Fast, dramatic stuff . . . rapid pace, great action, messy consequences' – SFFWorld'I had an absolute blast with this book . . . his work really does get better and better' – FalcataTimesTrade ReviewFast, furious, violent, slightly tongue-in-cheek (I think), and a whole lot of fun that makes 1984 seem like a children’s tea party . . . the start of another promising series from Asher. Go on, dive in, you won’t be disappointed -- British Fantasy SocietyDelivers plenty of thrills, and the climax also sets up a very intriguing status quo for the second volume -- SFXFast, dramatic stuff . . . this is a book with lots of Asher trademarks: rapid pace, great action, messy consequences -- SFFWorldI had an absolute blast with this book . . . his work really does get better and better -- Falcata TimesThe Orwellian intro had me utterly hooked right from the start. I simply couldn’t stop reading until I reached the end -- WorldsInInkAction packed and thrilling, The Departure is a must for all fans of contemporary science fiction who haven’t experienced Asher’s visceral novels before -- We Love This Book

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Book SynopsisEarth is falling. Will our call for help be heard? The Saints of Salvation is the extraordinary conclusion to Peter F. Hamilton’s Salvation Sequence: a high-octane adventure from a master of the genre.'The most powerful imagination in science fiction' – Ken Follett, author of The Pillars of the EarthLive in hiding – or die for freedomHumanity welcomed the Olyix and their utopian technology. But mankind was tricked. Now these visitors are extracting a terrible price.For two years, the Olyix have laid siege to Earth, harvesting its people for their god. One by one, cities are crumbling beneath their devastating weaponry. And while millions have fled to seek refuge in space, others continue to fight an apparently unwinnable war.As Earth's defeat draws near, a team attempts to infiltrate the Salvation of Life – the Olyix’s arkship. If it succeeds, those chosen will travel to a hidden enclave thousands of light years away. Once there, they must signal its location to future generations, to bring the battle to the enemy. Maybe allies scattered throughout space and time can join forces. Yet in the far future, humanity are still hunted by their ancient adversary. And as forces battle on in the cold reaches of space, hope seems distant indeed . . .The Saints of Salvation is the third and final book in the Salvation Sequence by Peter F. Hamilton.'A stirring finale' – Guardian'It delivers on every level' – Daily MailTrade ReviewPeter F. Hamilton brings his Salvation trilogy to a satisfying climax . . . a stirring finale -- GuardianThis is outstanding sci-fi, monstrous in scale both physical and temporal, with knock-out thrills and spills . . . It delivers on every level -- Daily MailA massive, knock-your-socks-off, bravura finish -- Locus MagazineA rousing, action-packed space opera that further cements his reputation as a master of the genre . . . Fans will be thrilled to see this series go out on a high note -- Publishers Weekly, starred reviewExceptional . . . shows a writer that is the master of his genre, delivering everything expected, and more. Highly recommended -- SFFWorldThe Saints of Salvation is exactly what I have come to expect from a Peter F. Hamilton novel – grand awe-inspiring celestial vistas and plots that manage to be both devilishly simple yet also fiendishly complex. I can confidently confirm you’ll find all that and more in his latest masterwork -- EloquentPageA satisfactory conclusion -- SFCrowsnestPrepare for science fiction on a truly galactic scale . . . This was an awe-inspiring read -- RunalongTheShelvesEverything readers of Salvation will have hoped for. A series emerging as a modern classic -- Stephen Baxter, author of Time, on Salvation LostThis is galactic-scale space opera . . . audacious, exciting, funny and just happens to have the most terrifying alien invasion concept I've ever encountered -- Alastair Reynolds, author of Revelation Space on Salvation LostSavage, brilliant and compelling. A masterclass in tension and spectacle -- Gareth L. Powell, author of Embers of War, on Salvation Lost

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Book Synopsis''Orson Scott Card made a strong case for being the best writer science fiction has to offer.'' - The Houston Post on Xenocide''The novels of Orson Scott Card''s Ender series are an intriguing combination of action, military and political strategy, elaborate war games and psychology.'' - USA TodayTOGETHER THEY STAND - BUT CAN THEY PREVENT AN ATROCITY?Ender and Valentine Wiggin: brother and sister whose lives have shaped history. Valentine is ''Demosthenes'', whose subversive, incendiary writings fight the monstrous power of Starways Congress, masters of the Hundred Worlds. And Ender. . . As a child, Ender commanded a warfleet that wiped out a planet. The triumph of his life could be his fight to stop it happening again. It might be his tragedy that he cannot.Congress has sent a warfleet to Lusitania, home to Ender, his family, two alien species and the deadliest virus ever known. The warfleet carries an order to desTrade ReviewSome of the most hauntingly brilliant writing of the decade -- INTERZONE on ENDER’S GAMEAchieves and delivers more than almost anything else within the science fiction genre, Ender's Game is a contemporary classic -- NEW YORK TIMES on ENDER’S GAMECard has taken the venerable SF concepts of a superhuman and interstellar war . . . and, with superb characterisation, pacing and language, combined them into a seamless story of compelling power -- BOOKLIST on ENDER’S GAMEAlmost impossible to put down -- LOCUS on ENDER’S GAME

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Book Synopsis''LIKE ALIAS MEETS X-MEN . . . I LOVED IT!'' Maria Lewis on The Girl Who Could Move Sh*t With Her MindFull of imagination, wit and random sh*t flying through the air, this insane new Frost Files adventure will blow your tiny mind.Teagan Frost''s life is finally back on track. Her role working for the government as a telekinetic operative is going well and she might even be on course for convincing her crush to go out with her. But, little does she know, that sh*t is about to hit the fan . . . A young boy with the ability to cause earthquakes has come to Los Angeles - home to the San Andreas, one of the most lethal fault lines in the world. If Teagan can''t stop him, the entire city - and the rest of California - could be wiped off the map.''Ford delivers a fantastic follow-up to The Girl Who Could Move Sh*t With her Mind with this tale of earthquakes, superpowers and culinary ambition'' PublisTrade ReviewFord delivers a fantastic follow-up to The Girl Who Could Move Sh*t With her Mind with this tale of earthquakes, superpowers and culinary ambition * PUBLISHERS WEEKLY *This second book about psychokinetic superspy Teagan is even more suspenseful than The Girl Who Could Move Sh*t With Her Mind. The stakes couldn't be higher . . . The suspense, the danger, and the rocket-fueled pace are all turned up to 11 in this more-than-satisfying sequel * KIRKUS *[A] smart, action-packed novel . . . New readers will be able to pick up here. Teagan's bright wit offsets the darker moments, and a curious cliff-hanger ensures that readers will be back for the next entry * BOOKLIST *Like Alias meets X-Men in a grimy LA setting. Full throttle from the opening page, this book gives urban sci-fi fans everything they could want with a spiky heroine, shady government agencies, high stakes and a diverse cast of characters. I loved it!Proceeds at breakneck speed through almost 500 pages of madcap adventure, with some terrific jokes and plenty of tensionTeagan is a frank and funny narrator for this wild ride, which starts off with our heroine falling from the 82nd floor of a skyscraper and pretty much never slow down. Readers will be glad to learn that it's set for a sequel. A fast-paced, high-adrenaline tale that manages to get into some dark themes without losing its sense of funFord's strengths are evident in the taut action sequences and suspenseful pacing

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Book SynopsisJourney to Star Wars: The Force AwakensThe second Death Star has been destroyed, the Emperor killed, and Darth Vader struck down. Devastating blows against the Empire, and major victories for the Rebel Alliance. But the battle for freedom is far from over.As the Empire reels from its critical defeats at the Battle of Endor, the Rebel Alliance—now a fledgling New Republic—presses its advantage by hunting down the enemy’s scattered forces before they can regroup and retaliate. But above the remote planet Akiva, an ominous show of the enemy’s strength is unfolding. Out on a lone reconnaissance mission, pilot Wedge Antilles watches Imperial Star Destroyers gather like birds of prey circling for a kill, but he’s taken captive before he can report back to the New Republic leaders.Meanwhile, on the planet’s surface, former rebel fighter Norra Wexley has returned to her native world—war weary, ready to reunite with her estranged son, and eager to build a new life in some distant place. But when Norra intercepts Wedge Antilles’s urgent distress call, she realizes her time as a freedom fighter is not yet over. What she doesn’t know is just how close the enemy is—or how decisive and dangerous her new mission will be.Determined to preserve the Empire’s power, the surviving Imperial elite are converging on Akiva for a top-secret emergency summit—to consolidate their forces and rally for a counterstrike. But they haven’t reckoned on Norra and her newfound allies—her technical-genius son, a Zabrak bounty hunter, and a reprobate Imperial defector—who are prepared to do whatever they must to end the Empire’s oppressive reign once and for all.Trade ReviewWendig tackles what is quite possibly the trickiest novel to navigate since Heir to the Empire with confidence and precision, introducing new characters and concepts while retaining the jury-rigged, gung-ho swagger of the original trilogy. Roll on chapter 2. * Jedi News *Do yourself a favour, you don’t want to be suffering from Jedi fatigue come December, avoid any further trailers for the new film and read this instead. Wendig has achieved an accomplishment I thought nigh on impossible. He has written a novel that has left me actively salivating for the next Star Wars movie. Well played Mr Wendig, well played. Turns out, thirty two years later, I haven’t changed a bit; I am still completely in thrall to my childhood favourites. If The Force Awakens manages to capture the same sense of adventure that is on display here, then the future of Star Wars is in safe hands * The Eloquent Page *highly readable, sharp continuation of the saga * Sci-Fi Bulletin *Chuck has kept the spirit of the original Star Wars movies – that cheesiness and goofiness we all loved so much – but at the same time made sure there is enough realism and grittiness so that it appeals to the tastes of readers today. 10/10 * Fantsy Fiction *It's clear from the start that Wendig really gets Star Wars, he manages to immerse the reader into that unique Star Wars feeling right from the start. The ambience is spot on. Aftermath is full of the strange creatures and dusty technology that helps to make up the Star Wars universe. He then populates this canvas with intriguing, lively, thoughtful characters that fit into the spaces seamlessly…The ending, when it comes is just superb and does what a book should, leave you wanting more - such as figuring out just who is really in charge of the remnants of the Empire. Star Wars Aftermath almost makes up for that sweeping canon reset, a few more like this and Disney will be completely forgiven. A wonderful Star Wars adventure by a gifted author. 5 * * SFBook.com *

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Book SynopsisLuke Skywalker dreamed of adventures out among the stars and alien worlds. But when he intercepted a message from a beautiful captive princess, he got more than he had bargained for—and that was how the adventure of his life began. . . .Forty years after the groundbreaking movie Star Wars: A New Hope first hit the silver screen, Star Wars remains one of the most beloved sagas ever told. Together, the three original Star Wars movies A New Hope, The Empire Strikes Back, and Return of the Jedi told one epic: a heroic tale of innocence lost and wisdom gained, of downfall and redemption, of the never-ending fight between the forces of good and evil. Read the story of the movies in one paperback volume and rediscover the wonder of the legend that begins: A long time ago, in a galaxy far, far away . . .Trade ReviewWell worth a read * Concatenation *

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Book SynopsisEnemies without! Enemies within!This fourth omnibus of The Rise and Fall of the Trigan Empire, a classic of the science-fiction genre, collects the stories published in Look and Learn from 1973 through to 1975.Don Lawrence’s painted art continues to be a highlight of the series and, as Don Lawrence takes a sabbatical from the strip, Miguel Quesada and Philip Corke match his impressive work with their own style.The Trigan emperor and his nephew, Janno, continue to protect their citizens from treacherous politicians, foil assassination attempts by mercenary assassins, halt the despotic plans of delusional scientists, and resist alien invaders.Trade Review“The Rise and Fall of the Trigan Empire is a stand-out strip on the UK comics’ landscape” Tripwire “We can still marvel at the extraordinary visual flair and detail of Don Lawrence’s stunning artwork. 9/10” Starburst "Vastly influential. Stunning. Dominated the genre of Science-Fiction epics." The Independent "Lawrence [is] celebrated for his richly coloured, highly detailed visions of fantastic worlds." The New York Times

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Book SynopsisThe sixth omnibus collection of The Rise and Fall of the Trigan Empire reprints all of the classic stories in chronological order, many for the first time. This volume includes Oliver Frey's final work on the series, and the beginning of Gerry Wood's work.

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Book SynopsisA young fleet officer and a Marine must stand together to defend their neighbors and their colony in this thrilling finale to the powerful and action-packed Genesis Fleet saga from New York Times bestselling author Jack Campbell. The recently colonized world of Glenlyon has learned that they're stronger when they stand with other star systems than they are on their own. But after helping their neighbor Kosatka against an invasion, Glenlyon has become a target. The aggressive star systems plan to neutralize Glenlyon before striking again. An attack is launched against Glenlyon's orbital facility with forces too powerful for fleet officer Rob Geary to counter using their sole remaining destroyer, Saber. Mele Darcy's Marines must repel repeated assaults while their hacker tries to get into the enemy systems to give Saber a fighting chance. To survive, Glenlyon needs more firepower, and the only source for that is their neighbor Kosatka or other star systems that have so far remained neutral. But Kosatka is still battling the remnants of the invasion forces on its own world, and if it sends its only remaining warship to help will be left undefended against another invasion. While Carmen Ochoa fights for the freedom of Kosatka, Lochan Nakamura must survive assassins as he tries to convince other worlds to join a seemingly hopeless struggle. As star systems founded by people seeking freedom and autonomy, will Kosatka, Glenlyon and others be able to overcome deep suspicions of surrendering any authority to others? Will the free star systems stand together in a new Alliance, or fall alone?

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Book SynopsisThe Definitive series of the Nemesis the Warlock saga continues with Nemesis's continuing battle against the wicked forces of Termight's mad tyrant Torquemada, alien freedom fighter Nemesis The Warlock is joined by his bloodthirsty son Thoth and war robots, the A.B.C. Warriors, for a nightmarish adventure across the terrifying Time Wastes. Written by Pat Mills (Marshal Law) and drawn by Kevin O'Neill (League of Extraordinary Gentlemen) and Bryan Talbot (Sandman, The Adventures of Luther Arkwright), this edition compiles the entire series in order, with the colour centre-spread pages reproduced in their original form. Definitive Nemesis the Warlock is the ultimate way to read one of the most important sci-fi sagas published in the pages of 2000 AD.

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Book SynopsisFINALIST FOR HUGO AWARD FOR BEST NOVEL 2019FINALIST FOR LOCUS AWARD FOR BEST SCIENCE FICTION NOVEL 2019IN SPACE EVERYONE CAN HEAR YOU SINGA century ago, intelligent space-faring life was nearly destroyed during the Sentience Wars. To bring the shattered worlds together in the spirit of peace, unity and understanding, the Metagalactic Grand Prix was created. Part concert, part contest, all extravaganza, species far and wide gather to compete in feats of song, dance and/or whatever facsimile of these can be performed by various creatures who may or may not possess, in the traditional sense, feet, mouths, larynxes or faces. This year, humankind has discovered that it must fight for its destiny not with diplomacy, gunships and stoic councils - but with glitter, lipstick and electric guitars. A washed-up glam-rock trio from London, Decibel Jones and the Absolute Zeroes, has been chosen to represent humanity on the greatest stage iTrade ReviewSPACE OPERA by Cat Valente is the experience of Finding Your Song stretched out over paragraphs and chapters and characters and story arcs, and it is glorious, it is painful and silly and serious and glorious and glitterpunk glamrock glory in multi-syllabic crescendos of idea. * Seanan McGuire *As if Ziggy Stardust went on a blind date with The Hitchiker's Guide to the Galaxy, then they got smashed and sang karaoke all night long. Cat Valente is mad and brilliant and no one else would have even thought of this, much less pulled it off. * John Scalzi *SPACE OPERA is a book I really needed in this dour, dire age: Valente's book contains a story and prose that is both electric and breathless, It has the heart of Douglas Adams and the soul of David Bowie. I loved it and it made me happy. * Chuck Wendig *Cat Valente is the Ray Bradbury of her generation * Lev Grossman, Time Magazine *Valente has cleverly recreated just the kind of surreal alien anarchy Douglas Adams would be proud of, all of it topped off with a Ziggy Stardust swagger . . . The result is so funny, so quirky and so downright weird that at times you have to remind yourself you're not actually reading Adams... and we can't praise anything more highly than that. Definitely not "nul points". * SFX magazine *

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Book SynopsisTwo Syndicate World star systems have fallen prey to a mysterious fleet of warships controlled entirely by artificial intelligence. The warships are no mystery to Geary. He knows they were developed by his government to ensure security, but malfunctioned. If the Syndics learn the truth, the war with the Alliance will resume with a vengeance. As the government attempts to conceal the existence of the A.I. warships - and its role in their creation―Geary must track the ships to their secret base in the supposedly mythical Unity Alternate star system and end the conflict―at any cost.

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Book SynopsisThe third thrilling omnibus of the lost Sci-Fi classic from the sixties that the New York Times noted had “highly detailed visions of fantastic worlds”This is the epic story of the Trigan Empire’s rise and fall, and of how Trigo, often alone, had to fend off usurpers and monstrous threats to save his people. The lush painted comic art that Don Lawrence produced in this period would solidify him as one of the greatest comic book artists of all time.Collected within are all the Trigan Empire stories published in chronological order including the never before reprinted short stories not illustrated by Don Lawrence, to give you the complete saga of the Trigan Empire. Trade Review“The Rise and Fall of the Trigan Empire is a stand-out strip on the UK comics’ landscape” Tripwire “We can still marvel at the extraordinary visual flair and detail of Don Lawrence’s stunning artwork. 9/10” Starburst "Vastly influential. Stunning. Dominated the genre of Science-Fiction epics." The Independent "Lawrence [is] celebrated for his richly coloured, highly detailed visions of fantastic worlds." The New York Times

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Book SynopsisIn the cold reaches of space, are they sowing the seeds of battle?Alan Saul is now part human and part machine, and our solar system isn't big enough to hold him. He craves the stars, but can't leave yet. His sister Var is trapped on Mars, on the wrong side of a rebellion. And Saul's human side won't let her die. He must leave Argus Station to stage a dangerous rescue – but mutiny is brewing on board.Serene Galahad is the earth’s latest dictator, with its full powers at her disposal – and she’ll do anything to prevent Saul from escaping her grasp. So she musters new warships, ready to unleash a terrifying display of interstellar violence. The previous ship sent to end Saul failed, and is now limping back to earth. One survivor is Clay Ruger, who is holding to ransom humanity’s greatest asset – seeds to rebuild a dying Earth. He’ll give them up if Galahad gives up her life. But will Galahad pay the price, to ensure humanity’s future?Jupiter War is the final book in the Owner trilogy by Neal Asher.‘This dizzying and unusually thoughtful space opera . . . The result is a challenging, extremely satisfying read' – Publishers Weekly‘Expertly ratchets up the narrative tension and excitement with high-tech mayhem and technological razzle-dazzle' – Kirkus ReviewsTrade ReviewThis is a dizzying and unusually thoughtful space opera . . . The result is a challenging, extremely satisfying read -- Publishers WeeklyJam-packed with . . . invention, and just downright, in-your-face, balls-to-the-wall action -- SFFWorldNeal Asher is a real SF professional, and you won’t be disappointed -- EarthianHivemindFast, furious, violent, slightly tongue-in-cheek (I think), and a whole lot of fun that makes 1984 seem like a children’s tea party . . . the start of another promising series from Asher. Go on, dive in, you won’t be disappointed -- British Fantasy Society on The DepartureThe Orwellian intro had me utterly hooked right from the start. I simply couldn’t stop reading until I reached the end -- WorldsInInk on The Departure

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Book SynopsisTime travel can always bring complications. The Doctor, Leela and K9 find themselves at different ends of strange temporal effects - from two time zones on the same planet to two locations that couldn't be more different. But the peril they find in all of these places is the same.

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Book SynopsisThe Moon wants to kill you. It might not get there first.Luna is a gripping thriller about five corporate families caught in a bitter battle for supremacy in the harsh environment of the moon. It''s very easy to die on the moon, but with its vast mineral wealth it''s also easy to make your fortune. Following the fortunes of a handful of disparate characters, from one of the lowliest workers on the moon to the heads of one of the most powerful families, LUNA provides a vast mosaic of life on this airless and terrifying new home for humanity.This is SF that will be perfect for fans of Kim Stanley Robinson and Ken Macleod alike.''McDonald is one of the best world builders I''ve ever read'' - Tamora PierceReaders are being swept away by LUNA: NEW MOON:''It''s a great epic read. It''s also filled to the brim with imminently plausible science. Not a single thing was out of place''- Goodreads reviewer, ⭐ Trade ReviewIan McDonald is one of the very best SF writers in the world. His novels are fearless, brilliant wise...they illuminate and entertain spectacularly * Kim Stanley Robinson *I will read anything that man writes-he is the most underappreciated genius working in the field today * Cory Doctorow *Provocative, gripping and prancingly adult, it's a stunning example of how good science-fiction can be, and proof that McDonald is one of the best writers currently working in the genre * SFX *Luna: New Moon is a world that has been intricately woven together by its author. It's compelling and thought-provoking, and all without relying on overbearing sci-fi clichés. Brilliantly done. * Sci-Fi Now *Imagine Ben Bova's Farside mixed up with Heinlein's Moon is a Harsh Mistress and David Wingrove's Chung Kuo series but then re-imagined for the 21st century, with a sexed-up, more global viewpoint and you'll get an idea of Luna. I foresee great things for this book and award nominations a-plenty. Recommended. * SFF World *Luna is a remarkable novel! It is enormously clever and spectacularly visual and yet nothing overshadows the strength of its characterisation. A standout novel in a year that has been fantastic for science fiction. * For Winter's Nights *There's a lot of intrigue, some violence, rather more sex - healthily polymorphous and energetic, this - and all the pleasures of a cut-throat soap opera in space: a sort of Moon-Dome Dallas. -- Adam Roberts * The Guardian *In its gravitas and tension and, alas, tragedy, it's damn near Shakespearian. Add to that all the compulsive qualities of A Song of Ice and Fire, as I suggested in the header: a setting so brilliantly built and deftly embellished that buying into it isn't ever an issue; a vast cast of characters as satisfying and sympathetic individually as they are as part of McDonald's elaborate ensemble; and a plot composed of so many threads that you never know where it's going to go-except that when it ends, it's destined to end terribly. * Tor.com *Luna: New Moon is the best moon novel I've seen in many years...Inasmuch as it challenges one of the cherished master narratives of SF, in which the moon is only a stepping-stone, and despite what it owes to the tropes of '70s-era social melodrama, McDon­ald's novel has some formidable SF stingers not far beneath its densely textured surface. * Locus Mag *McDonald creates a complex and fascinating civilization featuring believable technology, and the characters are fully developed, with individually gripping stories. Watch for this brilliantly constructed family saga on next year's award ballots. * Publishers Weekly *Overall, it's a really good read - the environment is convincing, the characters wonderfully flawed and entirely believable, and the plot well-paced and gripping. It'll draw you into its world and refuse to let you out again. If you want to try an innovative piece of sci-fi, with a lot to say and a good means of exploring ways to say it, then this is the book for you. * SF&F Reviews *McDonald has created a totally believable setting and does it with a deft touch....This is one of the best Science Fiction novels to reach the shelves this year. Indulge yourself. * SF Crowsnest *"Luna: New Moon" is a refreshing and complex science fiction of the best kind - one that is universally clever and thought provoking, and one that stays with you long after you close the final page. * Upcoming 4 Me *Luna is a remarkable novel! It is enormously clever and spectacularly visual and yet nothing overshadows the strength of its characterisation. A standout novel in a year that has been fantastic for science fiction. * For Winter's Nights *This is masterful, adult SF and I can't wait to read the sequel. * BSFG *

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Book SynopsisFollowing Mindstar Rising and A Quantum Murder, The Nano Flower is the final book in Peter F. Hamilton's Greg Mandel trilogy – a page-turning science-fictional detective story.For fifteen years she has been the power behind England's economic renaissance. But this won’t help her now. Julia Evans, billionaire owner of Event Horizon, is in trouble. Her husband is missing. Rival companies claim to have acquired an incredible new technology – something impossibly superior to what has come before. So she has no time to notice a single flower, delivered anonymously. But this flower possesses genetic information millions of years in advance of any terrestrial DNA.Is it a cryptic alien message, or a poignant farewell token from her husband? One man is on the case to discover its origins: psi-boosted private detective Greg Mandel. But he won’t be alone in this desperate search. And, as Greg and Julia discover, being first in the race won’t be enough – not when the Nano Flower starts to bloom . . .Trade ReviewReaches another level of excellence . . . Brilliant -- LocusFully fleshed-out characters living in an immaculately imagined and executed near-future world, lush prose, crystal-sharp dialogue . . . Unreservedly recommended -- InterzoneA cracking good story, full of action and adventure . . . unputdownable -- Critical Wave

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Book SynopsisThe squad you love is out of time. Prepare for the thrilling finale in the epic, bestselling Aurora Cycle series about a band of unlikely heroes who just might be the galaxy's last hope for survival.Trade ReviewPraise for the series: 'A beyond epic space adventure that will make a sci-fi fan out of anyone.' Alexandra Christo, author of To Kill a Kingdom and Into the Crooked Place 'A fusion of everything you love about the genre that adds up into something completely fresh.’ Samantha Shannon 'Brace yourself. You're about to be immersed in a mindscape that you'll never want to leave.' Marie Lu, author of Legend

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Book SynopsisKaren Miller was born in Vancouver, Canada, but was raised in Sydney, Australia where she still lives today. She wanted to be a writer from early childhood, but that took some time to happen. While she was waiting she worked as a public servant, a receptionist, in the horse industry, in local government, in publishing, in telecommunications, as a college lecturer and ran her own science fiction/fantasy/mystery bookshop. She fell in love with Star Wars when she saw it on the big screen, the very first time it was released in 1977. That love affair has lasted her whole life. So far she's written six mainstream fantasy novels and two Stargate SG-1 tie-ins.

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Book SynopsisThe first volume in the Vatta''s War series - action-packed military SF from the Nebula Award winning author of The Speed of Dark.Ky Vatta is a highly promising military cadet with a great future ahead of her, until an insignificant act of kindness makes her the focus of the Academy''s wrath. She is forced to resign, her dreams shattered.For the child of a rich trading family, this should mean disgrace on a grand scale. And yet, to her surprise, Ky is offered the captaincy of a ship headed for scrap with its final cargo.Her orders are absolutely clear, but Ky quickly sees potential profit in altering the journey. Because, whatever the risks, it''s in her blood to trade - even if the currency is extreme danger.''I thoroughly enjoyed Trading in Danger and wholeheartedly recommend it'' THE BOOK SMUGGLERSTrade Reviewfast-paced and compelling - SF REVIEWSI thoroughly adored Trading in Danger and wholeheartedly recommend it - THE BOOK SMUGGLERS

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Book SynopsisIn Sunreach, after a planet-destroying Delver suddenly appears in the sky of Detritus and vanishes just as suddenly, FM knows that the last free human society got lucky. Her Skyward Flight companion Spensa figured out how to draw this Delver away, but it won''t be so easy next time. Humanity has to be prepared . . . In ReDawn, Alanik has recovered from the shock of answering a distress call and finding a planet of humans making a stand against the Superiority, only to be dismayed to discover they''re considering a peace overture from their enemy. Worse, when she returns to her home planet of ReDawn, she find her own people falling into exactly the same trap. With her mentor captured, she turns to her new friends to help: can Alanik, FM, Jorgen and Rig coax an ancient technology into life in time to save both their planets from disaster?And in Evershore, the government of Detritus is still in disarray following Superiority treachery, and no word

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Book SynopsisThe fate of the Chiss Ascendancy hangs in the balance in the epic finale of the Star Wars: Thrawn Ascendancy trilogy from bestselling author Timothy Zahn.For thousands of years The Chiss Ascendancy has been an island of calm, a center of power, and a beacon of integrity. Led by the Nine Ruling Families, their leadership stands as a bulwark of stability against the Chaos of the Unknown Regions.But that stability has been eroded by a cunning foe that winnows away trust and loyalty in equal measure. Bonds of fidelity have given way to lines of division among the families. Despite the efforts of the Expansionary Defense Fleet, the Ascendancy slips closer and closer toward civil war.The Chiss are no strangers to war. Their mythic status in the Chaos was earned through conflict and terrible deeds, some long buried. Until now. To ensure the Ascendancy's future, Thrawn will delve deep into its past, uncovering the dark secrets surrounding the ascension of the First Ruling Family. But the truth of a family's legacy is only as strong as the legend that supports it. Even if that legend turns out to be a lie.To secure the salvation of the Ascendancy, is Thrawn willing to sacrifice everything? Including the only home he has ever known?

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Book SynopsisStranded on a barren planet, the students confront the devasting reality of their situation, including the Master's dangerous plans and the mysterious entitites in the psychic forest. In the present, Gamara and the Mind Shield try to understand the entity which had been hunting them all - the mythical Mother Quiver.

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Book SynopsisThis fifth omnibus collection of the science-fiction classic, The Rise and Fall of the Trigan Empire, reprints all the stories originally published in Look & Learn from 1975 through to 1977, and contains Don Lawrence's final flawlessly painted Trigan Empire pages.The Emperor Trigo, his nephew Janno, and the trusted scientist Peric all band together to face off against the threats to the stability of the Trigan Empire - be they frozen superior life forms from an earlier age, or the machinations of Trigo’s own courtiers who are determined to seize control of the government - in these fast-paced yet beautifully painted comic stories which enthralled readers on original publication.Trade Review“The Rise and Fall of the Trigan Empire is a stand-out strip on the UK comics’ landscape” - Tripwire“We can still marvel at the extraordinary visual flair and detail of Don Lawrence’s stunning artwork. 9/10” - Starburst"Vastly influential. Stunning. Dominated the genre of Science-Fiction epics." The Independent"Lawrence [is] celebrated for his richly coloured, highly detailed visions of fantastic worlds." The New York Times

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Book SynopsisPolity Agent is the fourth novel in Neal Asher's popular Agent Cormac series.There's danger without and within.Refugees arrive in the Polity from eight hundred years in Agent Cormac’s future. And once they are through, the gate they use is dumped into the sun, as something dangerous and non-human is in pursuit. Cormac soon learns that the Maker civilization they have come from has been destroyed – by alien Jain technology.Orlandine, an augmented human, is studying this lethal tech in Cormac’s timeline. She may manage to harness its power, or it might destroy her. Meanwhile, Cormac is desperate to stamp down on this same technology, but someone or something is spreading it. And just outside humanity’s Polity worlds, something very nasty indeed might just be pulling their strings.Polity Agent is followed by Line War in the action-packed Agent Cormac seriesTrade ReviewOne of the best yet . . . destructive high Space Opera spectacle * Starburst *He’s got a fantastic eye for monsters, writes turbo-charged battle sequences, and can describe cosmic events and alien landscapes with an edge of evocative beauty * SFX *

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