In Aaron Ryan’s Dissonance: Volume I: Reality, the survivors of Earth must acclimate to their new normal.  Monsters roam the planet, and they are unlike anything that we’ve ever faced before.  With one look, they can establish a psychic link that freezes humans in their tracks, and leaves them as easy prey.  But Ryan’s characters are not all such easy marks for the alien invaders.  He writes them with wit and determination (and a little bit of luck), and establishes them as worthy adversaries to the formidable gorgons.  Across the entirety of the series, the author builds up our broken world into something spectacular, assuring that something new and impressive rises out of the ashes of what was there before—using what preceded it to great effect, but carving a new path nonetheless.

“One look, and it’s all over.” There are some rules you never forget. Above all else, whatever you do, you never look directly at a gorgon. Now, plug your ears… because the war for humanity is all right here in the “Dissonance” volumes. “Reality” debuted 1.1.24. “Reckoning” debuted 3.20.24. “Renegade” will debut 5.18.24.

The aliens invaded our world in the year 2026. They hovered there for three whole months, while the world watched and waited, wondering what they wanted with us. Then, on September 3rd, 2026, they activated, hunting us down with a terrifying power to immobilize us with their telepathy, paralyzing us where we stood, allowing them to eat at their leisure.

Sergeant Cameron Shipley lost everything to the gorgons in that invasion. 16 years later, he and mankind are eking out an existence in the shadows: hiding, trying desperately to survive.

Bestselling author Aaron Ryan crafts harrowing tales of epic tension, set amidst a gritty post-apocalyptic Earth, in this bestselling alien invasion military thriller series.

Readers of the “Alien Invasion” series by Johnny B. Truant and Sean Platt, the “Heartland Aliens” series by Joshua James, “The Hunger Games” trilogy by Suzanne Collins, and the “Legend” series by Marie Lu will appreciate this post-apocalyptic aliens thriller.

Whether readers are looking for a resistance against an alien invasion, or an inward look at the kind of monsters that were here before the gorgons arrived, Ryan has them covered.  The author starts with the warring emotions of hope and dread, and expands on the ethos of the story by pitting parts of humanity against one another.  Fans will find characters to root for, monsters to fear, and a new world to witness as it begins to build up from the shattered pieces of the past.  If that sounds like it is something you’ve been waiting for, don’t wait.  Start your journey into the Dissonance series with the first book, Dissonance: Volume I: Reality.  Then, when you’re ready to learn more, and bring the fight to the gorgons, check out the rest of author Aaron Ryan’s website!

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One of the most loved pulp sci-fi books of the past century, L. Ron Hubbard’s Battlefield Earth: A Saga of the Year 3000, celebrates its fortieth birthday this year.  It’s popcorn sci-fi that gets its hooks in readers, and doesn’t let go.  Battlefield Earth is known for characters that are either loved, or who readers love to hate, as well as for endless chapters of space opera adventure.  And for those who are just beginning to venture into Hubbard’s fiction, there’s no doubt more that they’ll come to enjoy.

Is it the end of the world or the rebirth of a new one?

In the year A.D. 3000, Earth is a dystopian wasteland. The great cities stand crumbling as a brutal reminder of what we once were. When the Psychlos invaded, all the world’s armies mustered little resistance against the advanced alien weapons.

Now, the man animals serve one purpose. Do the Psychlos’ bidding or face extinction.

One man, Jonnie Goodboy Tyler, has a plan. They must learn about the Psychlos and their weapons. He needs the other humans to follow him. And that may not be enough.

Can he outwit his Psychlo captor, Terl?

The fate of the Galaxy lies on the Battlefield of Earth.

Read the sci-fi classic your favorite authors rave about:

“Masterpiece of popular adventure sci-fi.”—Brandon Sanderson
“Brilliant.”—Hugh Howey
“Un-put-downable.”—Neil Gaiman
“Science-fiction tour de force.”—Douglas E. Richards
“A masterpiece.”—Robert A. Heinlein

This book has captivated the hearts and minds of many, including some of your favorite creative geniuses.  From Brandon Sanderson, who praised its explosive pace across the massive narrative, to Kevin J. Anderson of the Dune Sagas, who hailed its adventurous spirit.  And by the way, Dune fans absolutely love this book and the universe it spawned. It’s been known to grab hold of even the most talented writer’s attention, and refuse to let go.  There is a reason that it’s endured all these years, and now, forty years after its debut, it has retained its charm, and continues to grab hold of new readers.  If you haven’t had the chance yet, do yourself a favor and give it a glance.  Check out Battlefield Earth: A Saga of the Year 3000 on Amazon today!

If you prefer an audiobook experience, you can pick it up here.  You can also click here to learn more about the Battlefield Earth universe.

And finally, a book trailer:

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Author Thor Wier has a special affinity for our world, and he infuses that particular, peculiar care into his latest story, Yob’s Odyssey: A Journey of Searching the Powers of Nature.  Spend just a few minutes between the covers of this book, and you’ll certainly see that this story isn’t quite anything you’ve read before.  It blends the premise of some of your favorite tales.  It’s a boy raised by animals in nature, with special gifts, who learns that he might have the knowledge and the good fortune of being able to usher in a new age of prosperity for Earth, forgoing the kind of energy that we currently use in order to use what which will allow our world to thrive.

What would the world be without fossil fuel?

This is a story about a boy brought up in the forest by animals, who finds a new energy from nature. He learns how to talk to the animals, and they teach him the fundamental ways of nature. His real parents send him there to keep “The Men in Black” from finding him, thus keeping him safe. In a parallel world of the most beautiful, amazing forest, the animals protect and show him how to go with the grain of nature.

Having drifted miles down a river, he finds a cabin that miraculously enough has plans of his father’s invention. His DNA correlates with his father’s intention, and he begins researching his goal.

A dog, wolf, and bear become his new parents, as Pa, Ma, and Grandpa. The boy begins new research of a hidden energy in nature.

He discovers energy that can replace fossil fuel. His discovery enhances his furthest expectations. As he works on the most amazing discovery, the animals in return teach the boy how to ferret out the principles with nature.

As years pass he continues on, making a better prototype. His animal family, now many more animals of the forest, converse with him. They tell him of his world in which he had come from. It left him befuddled, in a state of great wonder. His new family feels he is the one, to help all, and bring forth change.

He shows this new energy to world leaders, and by doing so he meets the love of his life, his better half, his soul mate, and finds true love.

Meanwhile, Yob prepares for finding the energy from nature by going into a realm no one have ever gone before.. As he finds this new energy, it takes Yob on an odyssey deep into the universe to show ways to bring bring forth ways of improving our world.

Thor Wier dearly cares about the way we treat our planet, and that extends to the way we treat its creatures.  There is a through line of finding harmony and balance throughout Yob’s Odyssey.  While the book certainly has its science fiction elements, it is grounded in the reality that we must find new ways to cherish and preserve this world, or it will move on without us.  If you have a great respect for the Earth, its resources, and its creatures, this book could be up your alley.  Check out Yob’s Odyssey: A Journey of Searching the Powers of Nature (Yob’s Worldz Trilogy) on Amazon today!

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One of the things that author Andrew Charles does to great effect is to take some paths in his story that might be unexpected.  So it is in The Way to Baen, the fifth book in the Coalition series.  It thrives, in part, because it is able to surprise, even this deep into the series.  But at its heart, the Coalition series excels when the author focuses on its characters, and there is no fear of a misstep in that regard here.  The Way to Baen continues to shine a laser on the relationships and the development at hand in its appealing cast—whether you’re talking about delightful protagonists, or those who stand in their way.  As colorful as Charles makes his version of the galaxy, he paints with clever and careful shades of grey to ensure that you can understand and empathize with everyone who has a stake to claim.

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Introduce yourself to a dozen of the most talented storytellers of today, before they become the most popular authors of tomorrow.  L. Ron Hubbard Presents Writers of the Future Volume 34: The Best New Sci Fi and Fantasy Short Stories of the Year was the April 2018 release of the serialized anthology, but it has lasting power, thanks to the work of a dozen creative writers, in addition to the beautiful imagery of twelve captivating illustrators.  The Writer’s of the Future issues are flexible on the speculative fiction spectrum, but this issue leans a little more toward the fantasy genre.  Real experiences—which are divulged in the brief author profiles preceding each story—help to inform the fantasy, and it gives the collection a lived-in, richer veneer.  Whether you’re looking for something with a more contemporary flair, or something with the presence and stature of a traditional fantasy, you’ll find representation here in this collection, and you’re bound to find a new favorite story or author.

Your search for something new and different in sci-fi and fantasy ends here.

Presenting this year’s collection of fresh voices, fabulous worlds, and fantastic new characters.

Each year, the Writers and Illustrators of the Future Contests’ blue-ribbon judges search the world to discover and introduce to you the very best new talent in sci-fi and fantasy.

Created by L. Ron Hubbard, whose commitment to help new writers and artists gave rise to the annual Writers of the Future anthologies—a launching pad for writers and artists who are sure to command our attention for decades to come.

Limited Time! Amazon selected Writers of the Future Volume 34 as a Kindle Deal for $1.99.

Discover new authors and illustrators that will stretch your imagination, and read the three bonus short stories by L. Ron Hubbard, Brandon Sanderson, and Jody Lynn Nye, and essays on writing and illustration by L. Ron Hubbard, Orson Scott Card, Ciruelo, and Jerry Pournelle.

Why read Writers of the Future? Hear it directly from the Contest Judges:

“Some of the most excellent speculative fiction that you can find. They’re cutting edge.” —Nnedi Okorafor

“These are the people who are going to be creating trends.” —Brandon Sanderson

“The Illustrators of the Future is an amazing compass for what the art industry holds in store for all of us.” —Dan dos Santos

“Writers of the Future, as a contest and as a book, remains the flagship of short fiction.” —Orson Scott Card

“The best new stories by new writers, anywhere.” —Larry Niven

“Science fiction as a genre has always looked to the future and the Writers of the Future looks to the future of science fiction.” —Kevin J. Anderson

“See the best of the best culled for you, curated and selected in a single volume every year.” —Robert J. Sawyer

It’s important for writers of speculative fiction to be aware of this anthology, because it could be a game changer for those who partake.  With cash prizes, exposure aplenty, and the chance to have one’s work seen by the masters of the craft, Writers of the Future is one of the most prestigious writing contents available for fantasy and sci-fi storytellers.

It all comes back to readers though, and fans of fantasy and sci-fi should make sure that these anthologies are always on their list—and if they missed any older issues, they’re all available on Amazon.  This one is particularly catching, especially if you’re a fantasy connoisseur.  Check out L. Ron Hubbard Presents Writers of the Future Volume 34: The Best New Sci Fi and Fantasy Short Stories of the Year on Amazon today!  Don’t forget, it’s only $1.99 for a limited time!

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Author Adam Fernandez takes readers on a journey across moons and planets in his terrific debut of Vermilion Flames: Midnight War: Book I.  It is an interesting juxtaposition between science and fate, and the author tackles it with deep respect for both ends of the spectrum, never allowing this wonderful story to feel schlocky.  Building a foundation with which to stack characters from the republic or the rebel forces, Fernandez is able to tackle pathos and ethos in captivating ways.  Indeed, readers will be drawn to the characters throughout the story, eager to see if they can reach their goals or come to terms with their failures.  And though there are some events that would paint members of the cast as villains, things are never quite so black and white.

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Praised by award-winning sci-fi writers and fans alike, The Planet of Darkness: Book I: The City of the Dark Tyrant, by author Tirzah Darnell, is an experience not to be missed.  With life reimagined tens of centuries in the future, nothing is to be expected, as there are surprises around every corner.  Darnell tells the tale through the eyes of a multitude of characters, each who live life as a number, and not as someone with a name.  There are sci-fi elements at play, but this is the kind of story that feels as though it would appeal to fantasy lovers as well, as there are more than few elements of the supernatural that call out from that end of the speculative fiction spectrum.  Darnell’s world is anything but monolithic, and she allows her readers to explore in ways that allow them to see things from other perspectives.  On a planet of darkness, there are indeed shades of grey.

The Dark Tyrant controls every aspect of the Planet of Darkness and forbids his subjects from even thinking about his rival world, the Planet of Light. However, rebellion is stirring and one propaganda specialist begins probing for answers and ultimately must determine if the truth is worth the sacrifice of position, security, wealth, and perhaps even his family. This science fiction dystopian novel explores the themes of the struggle for power, the individual versus societal conformity, resilience in the face of mental and physical struggles, and the ability to question authoritarian control.

The presence of the Planet of Darkness is offset by the promise of a world of light, which could be a paradise to escape to.  But there are more ways than one to convince people to remain on the dark planet, including abstract distractions, and strange convictions.  Across the journey that readers are taken on, there are elements of intrigue and self-reflective intellectual quandaries.  Darnell doesn’t just set out a world without life, but invites her readers on a walkabout in a world that is anything but what it appears to be at first glance.  With every realization and revelation that comes to pass, the audience is bound to be that much more determined to find out what is in store beyond the veil of darkness.  With two other books of a trilogy planned for this incredible series, there’s no better time than now to dive into the first book.  Check out The Planet of Darkness: Book I: The City of the Dark Tyrant on Amazon today!

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The fourth book in author Andrew Charles’s Coalition series, The Salandra Path takes the fascinating grandeur of space travel and the philosophies of tried-and-true sci-fi epics in a spectacular new direction.  Charles is not shy about immersing readers in the cultures and mental state of various members of the cosmos, and it is in that which his series shines.  His characters are so well-developed and dynamic, and they are part of a growing tapestry made of the great veil of space.  It isn’t merely a story of good versus evil, although every one has varying shades of grey.  Instead, it’s a chaotic weave that takes readers through thrilling twists and turns.

Embark on a gripping journey through the treacherous reaches of space in “The Salandra Path: A Coalition Series Book – 4” by Andrew Charles.

Shri Gusway, determined to redeem former Ensigns Bala Scyan and Jorl Frine, faces unexpected peril when their shuttle explodes over Byrex. Presumed dead, they are actually abducted by pirates traversing The Salandra Path, forcing them into a life-altering decision: serve or die.

As Gusway and Scyan escape their captors, a harrowing adventure unfolds. With the crew of Vanguard mourning their loss, they embark on a mission to challenge the escalating pirate threat. Meanwhile, Gusway and Scyan’s quest for survival takes them through Astil, Grundin, and into the clutches of the formidable Witch, a ruthless pirate leader with supernatural prowess.

While the Coalition launches a full-scale search, a sinister plan unfolds within the Pirates’ Den. Ascern, the psychotic partner of the Witch, seeks revenge with brutal intentions. With Gusway and Scyan facing an uncertain fate, suspense builds to a crescendo. In the electrifying conclusion, the Witch’s bond with her prisoners is tested, and Ascern’s thirst for terror reaches its zenith.

Will the heroes escape the clutches of the Pirates’ Den, or will Ascern unleash unimaginable horrors? Discover the answers in the heart-pounding conclusion of “The Salandra Path.”

While readers may learn that Shri was introduced in an earlier book in the Coalition series, the author presents her new story with enough care that it won’t feel as though they’re missing a good deal of information.  Charles has a work ethic that extends backward, however, and reading the three books that precede The Salandra Path is a very good way to immerse oneself in this great series.  If you do decide to go back to the start, don’t forget that an incredible fourth-in-series is waiting for you at the end of the road, and that there is likely more to come.  Check out The Salandra Path: A Coalition Series Book – 4 on Amazon today!

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While a traditional science fiction story can still be plenty entertaining, there’s something about a decent hook, presented early on, which can really turn a reader into a fan.  So it is with author Aaron Ryan’s new book, Dissonance: Volume I: Reality.  This sci-fi, set in a dystopian world and abound with militaristic survivors, has some resemblance to some of your favorite sci-fi stories, from Alien, to A Quiet Place, and even Jurassic Park.  It’s a tale of invasion, by monsters who the author has carved out with interesting lore, and explored enough of a history for that we pick up years after they’ve arrived to eradicate humanity.  There is ominous terror waiting around every corner, and it is quiet and surprising as the author unveils the narrative.

Plug your ears. Don’t look.

The war for humanity has begun.

Cameron “Jet” Shipley was there when they arrived in 2026. He, and everyone else, lived through the next decade and a half, learning to hide. Learning to never make a sound. Learning the most important rule of all:

You just…don’t…look.

The year is now 2042, and humanity is eking out an existence in the shadows. Cameron and his team are sent out on a recon mission in Clarksville Tennessee, with events and developments that may alter the trajectory of Earth’s fate…and his own.

Joined by newcomers Bassett and Trudy, Cameron and his brother Rut will have to contend with a powerful force that has laid waste to the planet and annihilated over eighty-five percent of civilization.

Will Jet’s expeditions lead him on a slippery slope of discovery that demands accountability and answers?

Or will it plunge the earth, and everything in it, into further dissonance?

“Aliens” meets “A Quiet Place” in this dystopian sci-fi thriller series.

Ryan also does something about the presentation of these cosmic foes.  Rather than keep them in the shadows, only unveiling them in the last third of the story, he sets the light on them from the beginning, introducing us to the creatures to let us know the horrors they can unleash, and the way they move and sound.  While the creatures are very interesting, the author doesn’t leave the human cast in the darkness.  There are some interesting bits of development, fun relationships to watch evolve, and surprises to be on watch for.  With two more stories coming before long, now is a great time to learn about the Gorgons, and fight for what remains of Earth.  Check out Dissonance: Volume I: Reality on Amazon today.

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Superhero fiction has become very popular, so there needs to be something in new stories that helps to set them apart from the vast amounts of other tales that are out there.  So it is with Roger E. Pedersen’s SuperPower: The Ability to Fly or to Become Invisible: The Deal of the Art (Book 1).  Because there is a sort of anthological sort of presentation, at first, things feel a bit self-contained, but Pedersen works his magic and begins to see all his story threads coalesce.  Filled with twists and turns, readers will be eager to find out what comes next, as there is certainly more than meets the eye than just what you see on the surface.

Intrigue, fantasy, and a world of power dynamics are masterfully woven together in this captivating novel. SuperPower: The Ability to Fly or to Become Invisible: The Golden Eagle Has Yielded (Book #3) by Roger E Pedersen delves deep into the clandestine and turbulent world that lurks beneath the façade of power.

The Steele family and their enigmatic ‘Golden Eagle’ organization, comprised entirely of individuals with extraordinary abilities, command a shadowy influence over society, possessing immense wealth and leveraging their supernatural prowess. Their members seamlessly navigate government corridors while conducting covert operations, blurring the lines between public service and hidden agendas. Yet, their dominance faces a formidable challenge when Professor Steele, the patriarch, encounters an aspiring member who becomes an unexpected adversary, igniting a supernatural war with high stakes and unimaginable consequences. Beyond the gripping narrative, the book subtly advocates for gender equality, encouraging the pursuit of dreams despite adversities—a message echoing through the exhilarating saga.

The book excels in characterization, skillfully introducing key players and delving into their intricate backstories. The well-crafted storyline adeptly weaves events with their causes and effects, captivating readers and maintaining their interest throughout the saga.

The SuperPower book series is available in eBook and softcover from Amazon, Google Play, B&N, Kobo, Target, Walmart and 100s of local bookstores.

Pedersen explores the concepts of his titular superpowers in all their interesting ways.  Because the chapters are generally split up by dossiers, you learn about his interesting cast of characters and all their wants and needs.  Since the first book, Pedersen has forged ahead, crafting another pair of wonderful stories revolving around the Steele family and the heroes they’ve recruited.  But you have to start somewhere, and book one is a perfect place to check your dossiers and perform your reconnaissance.  Check out SuperPower: The Ability to Fly or to Become Invisible: The Deal of the Art (Book 1) on Amazon today!

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