All That We See or Seem by Ken Liu – Review
Julia Kitvaria Sarene
... a confident start to a new series from an author who clearly has things to say about where technology and humanity are headed, and says them through a cast…
BIPOC
To Ride a Rising Storm by Moniquill Blackgoose – Review
Dragons, colonialism, and resistance, with a cast that reflects the full spectrum of humanity and a world that keeps getting richer, Blackgoose is building something special here.
The Poet Empress by Shen Tao: A Vague Review (Because Anything Specific Will Ruin the Ride)
JC Kang
I have concluded The Poet Empress needs to be experienced with very little knowledge of the story and characters, so the enigma of the villain can be unraveled as expectations…
Soulstar by C.L. Polk – Review
Soulstar is a timely and important conclusion, exploring power, social inequality, and resilience. It’s an intense, thought-provoking read that balances romance, politics, and personal struggle, leaving a lasting impression well…
Saints of Storm and Sorrow by Gabriella Buba – Review
Rich in magic, rooted in Filipino history, and unafraid to challenge the legacy of colonization, this is a bold fantasy that gives voice to stories too long silenced.
SPFBO 10 Champions’ League: Reign & Ruin by J. D. Evans – Review
... blends romance, magic, and courtly intrigue into a story driven as much by emotion as by politics. Set in a richly imagined, Middle Eastern inspired world, it follows characters…
SPFBO 10 Champions’ League: The Sword of Kaigen by M. L. Wang – Review
"It’s one of those rare books that transforms as you read it, and then transforms you in turn."
Dread Nation by Justina Ireland – Review
A fierce and clever reimagining of history, full of action, heart, and a heroine you won’t forget. I’m already reaching for the sequel.
Ebony Gate by Julia Vee and Ken Bebelle
“Jade City meets Never Die” At Emerald City Comicon, Ken Bebelle pitched the book he co-authored with Julia Vee to me as “Asian female John Wick with dragon magic in…
Orishas Among Mortals – Collection 1: An Old Gods Story by Antoine Bandele
... a vibrant, myth-rich (African meets Greek) short story collection that makes for a great entry point into the TJ Young universe. With standout narration and immersive audio touches.
Reign & Ruin by J. D. Evans – SPFBO 7 Finals Review
Jennie Ivins
If you are a fan of unique story settings and magic AND enjoy politics and some sexy times. This is definitely a book you need to read!
The Sword of Kaigen by M. L. Wang – SPFBO #5 Finalist Review
Geoff Matthews
This book slayed me, in a good way. First, the writing was beautiful and subtle, the sort of prose that sinks into your bones without being flashy or purple. I…