John Staughton, Senior Reviewer

A magical, message-laden allegory from a playful and creative pen, Mana Ray: Summer Magic by Julia Maslova is an otherworldly novel about peeling back the facade of a “perfect life” and embracing one’s true nature. On the Earth-like planet Odagea, Mana Ray is rising eagerly through society, moving closer to her dream of becoming an upper-class doctor. However, a twist of fate sends Mana out into the wilderness, where forbidden magic still exists, which allows her to finally see the cruel truth of the hierarchical and oppressive paradise she once called home. Essential in its message of class consciousness, albeit […]

Offering an alternate history and trenchant warning for the world at large, Bomboncita by D.K. Kristof nestles shrewdly in the crossover of allegory, speculative fiction, and savvy social critique. In the isolated Caribbean utopia of Isla de La Reina Madre, the fractured outside world is finally creeping in, while the titular Bomboncita, the heir to the island’s matriarchal Presidency, begins to shoulder the burden of rule and secure a future for her people. A subtle and beautifully crafted novella about responsibility and retribution that shines with moments of magical realism, Kristof delivers a brief but lyrical gem, which is especially […]

An eloquent and evocative ode to human nature, Codex of Echo: Books 1, 2, and 3 by Travis Nagatoshi is a three-part collection of inspiring poetry that gently advocates a path for personal enlightenment. Moving smoothly between philosophical musings, lyrical whimsy, and curious explorations of experience, this dynamic collection is both a call to action and a source of commiseration, encouraging readers to seek out higher realms of thought, emotion, and clarity. Though the sporadic use of bold text can feel like it gives unnecessary emphasis, these optimistic and compassionate verses deserve to be carefully considered and embraced by readers […]

An empowering thriller from a powerful new voice, The Perfect Revenge 2: Secrets of the Dragonfly by WilD is an entertaining plunge into the seedy realms of big money and backroom politics. Still plagued by the gruesome secrets of her past, Zoey has a new high-level mission and a team of financial sleuths working beneath her, including her ever-irritating but still undeniably charming ally, Mark. As the team digs into the slush funds of market manipulators, both the personal and professional stakes reach a fever pitch, as Zoey’s past catches up with her. Though Zoey’s resume feels a bit too […]