John Staughton, Senior Reviewer

Flipping the paradigm of human domination on its head, The Scorching: Just Press Play by Nick Snape is an inventive new sci-fi series that reimagines survival for our species, carving its own niche in a hugely entertaining mash-up of post-apocalyptic, alien invasion, and climate fiction. The titular apocalyptic event has driven humans underground and under the sea, even as a newly arrived alien force delivers potential salvation on an overheated planet. With genetic modification, mind control, conspiratorial rebellions, and a powerful undercurrent of savage social critique, this opening of a new trilogy is a staggeringly original and timely release from […]

A humorous and heartfelt gathering of musings to ease our worries about getting older, The Little Black Book of Birthday Wisdom: Quotes on Aging, Life, and Birthday Cake by Mike Kowis, Esq. is a clever and entertaining guide that also includes some surprisingly sage wisdom. Casually divided into themed chapters of quotes, aphorisms, and advice on mortality, this coffee table collection delivers diverse advice for life throughout the year, whether you’re looking for comfort, catharsis, or a good crack-up. From legendary thinkers and international superstars to actors, comedians, politicians, and anonymous wordsmiths, this well-organized read is another charming gem from […]

A sniper without a war to fight finds himself in crosshairs much closer to home in Nevada Lowball by Antonio Nicassio, a fast-paced drama of brotherhood and desperation. After leaving the military, Wes chooses to settle down into a simple hometown life with his new wife, rather than seek out a new battlefield as hired muscle in a criminal crew. However, when old friends drag him into a deadly scheme and put his growing family in danger, a war comes to his doorstep, leaving him no choice but to play the hand he’s been dealt. The high-octane plot moves fast, […]