The Paragon: A Powers, Masks and Capes Universe Novelette by Tao Wong

Shocking Revelations by the Paragon! Centuries old secrets revealed! Hidden identities! Learn why the Paragon was missing during the Bareyes-Masgani War. Listen to the Paragon as he relates his full thoughts on the Powers Defense Act. Get his full thoughts of the penultimate superhero on anti-Capes like the Enforcer. You won't want to miss the first ever recorded interview by the Cape of capes!

A Jinn's Wish: Hidden Wishes Book 3 by Tao Wong

Sometimes your greatest Wish becomes your greatest challenge. Henry Tsien made a wish to gain magic in a mundane world. Now he’s a mage living in a supernatural and dangerous world. When news that he holds a powerful wishing ring reaches the wrong ears, the danger grows imminent. Even the strongest of allies may fall as his enemies take action. Henry will have to run for his life, Leveling up and becoming more powerful as he tries to hide from his many enemies. All the while, Henry holds one last trump card. But wielding it might see the end of everything he and the world knows. A Jinn's Wish is the final book in the Hidden Wishes trilogy, a Gamelit / LitRPG urban fantasy novel that combines gaming concepts with popular fantasy tropes. It features a hidden supernatural world, magical leveling up, Knight Templars, kickass women, and shadowy supernatural organizations. No romance, no harems but pure magic and adventure.

A Squire's Wish: Hidden Wishes Book 2 by Tao Wong

When a squire on a mission becomes allies with a beginning mage, are wishes enough to keep the world safe? After Henry Tsien wished for magic and the knowledge that comes with it, his world became dangerous. Finding an unlikely ally in Alexa Dumough, the Knight Templar Initiate is not the strangest thing to happen to Henry but it could be just as dangerous. As their partnership becomes friendship, Alexa teaches Henry how to survive in the supernatural world. But soon, Alexa is forced to choose between her friendship with Henry and her loyalty to the Order. Her test to become a Squire plunges them both into a trial by fire, putting their lives and magic to the test. A Squire’s Wish is book 2 of the Hidden Wishes trilogy, an urban fantasy GameLit series. It features a hidden supernatural world, friendship, magical leveling up, Knight Templars, kickass women, and shadowy supernatural organisations. No romance, no harems but pure magic and adventure.

Briefly Buddies by Chase Connor

Being a gay teen can be difficult, but for Dustin Blanchard, it’s been pretty boring, actually. In less than twenty-four hours he’s going to graduate from high school. His parents and friends have always given him their full support and unconditional love. He’s always had plenty of friends in school, he’s attractive, always gotten good grades, and he’s headed into a new chapter of life—university after his last summer of working at a local ice cream joint. His life has been…blessed. There’s just one thing. He’s never had a boyfriend. Never gotten laid. Never even been kissed. Well, not like that, anyway. So, life has been good, but it’s been boring. When he came out, Dustin imagined his own rom-com, teenage, coming-of-age scenario playing out, finding a boyfriend in high school, and being crowned dual Kings of the Prom. Nothing ever works out the way he imagines, though, and he’s getting pretty tired of it. On the night of his graduation, Dustin and his friend, Miguel, come up with a plan while sharing a few beers swiped from the neighborhood barbecue. If you can’t get laid through skill and swagger of your own, you can always turn to a professional. All you need is the internet and a device. So, buzzed from the beers, Dustin logs onto Briefly Buddies to find the perfect guy to help him achieve his first real gay experience. And that’s where everything really started to go wrong…

Birds of a Feather by Sandy Butchers

WriteHive Book Club

Gifted with wings and an exceptional predator’s instinct, Gideon finds that The Keep of Whispers is not too fond of Splices like him. Growing up in a cruel city, he quickly discovers that the only people who care about him are the people who created him through generations of genetic enhancements. Trained to be a killer in the name the tech-hoarding Houses, Gael Griswold, the man behind the Splice technology, sells Gideon to the highest bidder. Here, he discovers that there’s more to life than his head on a wanted bounty pamphlet. Follow Gideon Crowby as he tries to discover who he is and how he can become a better man. Birds of a Feather is the third volume in a series of short story collections that prelude the 'The Singularian'

Deeper, Darker, Older by P. J. Richards

Ancient yew trees - living links between the past and present - embody a magical discipline that offers a way to reach beyond the mundane world. An occult group has rediscovered this knowledge, and uses it to experience a reality where legends live, magic is currency and willpower is a weapon. They find themselves drawn into a hunt for the last magical artifacts left in Britain - but the land is an entity with its own deadly agenda, and is harnessing these individuals for its own ends.

Cradle of Sea and Soil by Bernie Anés Paz

Indie Recs Indie

The Primordial Wound has festered with corruption since the birth of the world. The island tribes have warred against its spawn for just as long—and they are losing. Burdened by the same spiritual affliction that drove the first Halfborn insane, Colibrí lives in exile with little more than her warrior oaths and her son. But when Colibrí discovers corrupted land hidden away by sorcery, those same oaths drive her to find answers in an effort to protect the very people who fear her. Narune dreams of earning enough glory to show that he and his mother Colibrí are nothing like the Halfborn that came before them. Becoming a mystic will give him the strength he needs, but first, Narune will need to prove himself worthy in a trial of skill and honor. Together, Colibrí and Narune must learn to become the champions their people need—and face the curse threatening to scour away their spirits with fury.

Broken Council: System Apocalypse Book 10 by Tao Wong

All actions have consequences John Lee has come far from his time as a struggling survivor of the System Apocalypse. But now, his actions have gone too far and he has drawn the ire of the Galactic Council. Not only himself and his friends, but Earth itself, are faced with the displeasure of the Council. With the whole galaxy turned against them, John will have to scramble for allies and make Faustian deals to save Earth. But against the might of multiple empires, will it be enough? As the fate of Earth teeters on the balance, John may finally have to make a choice and break not just the Council, but his very honor itself. Broken Council is book 10 of the bestselling post-apocalyptic, space opera LitRPG series, The System Apocalypse.

Stars Asunder: System Apocalypse Book 9 by Tao Wong

To gain his Master Class, John Lee made a deal with the Erethran Empire. Now, the Empire has come to collect on the debt, forcing him to appear in their capital after his last fight. Thrown into Galactic politics of a militarised, System-based society; John will have to weigh consequences of the decisions he's been asked to make and confront the warped reality of a System-created empire. When politics, self-interest and a human's stubbornness collide, the very stars are threatened. Stars Asunder is book 9 of the System Apocalypse, the bestselling LitRPG fantasy and space opera series.

Rebel Star: System Apocalypse Book 8 by Tao Wong

Questions and answers abound in the Rebel Star Weary and tired from playing Galactic bounty hunter and assassin, John and his crew of intrepid human survivors find themselves in Spaks after their latest escapade bring more heat than ever. In the outcast station of rebels and pirates, John is caught up in Galactic politics once again. As trouble approaches on the hyperdrive engines of his many enemies, John finds answers to the System Quest and even more questions in the Rebel Station. Rebel Star is Book 8 of the System Apocalypse, a LitRPG Apocalypse series that combines modern day life, science fiction and fantasy elements along with game mechanics.

Stars Awoken: System Apocalypse Book 7 by Tao Wong

John Lee has left Earth behind him as he travels to the capital of the Galactic Council. Seeking rest and an answer to what the enigmatic System is, John plans to spend his time reading and researching on Irvina. But fate has other plans for the human Paladin. Faced with a new quest and a Galactic Society that is as unfair to its citizens as it was to Earth, John must decide if his desire for a quieter life outweighs his conscience. Stars Awoken is Book 7 of the System Apocalypse, a LitRPG post-apocalyptic series that combines modern day life, science fiction and fantasy elements along with game mechanics.

World Unbound: System Apocalypse Book 6 by Tao Wong

Four years ago, the Erethran Honor Guard arrived and threw John Lee into a Portal to another world. Since then, Earth has received no word of the intrepid adventurer. Until now. Finding his way back to Earth through a Portal, John returns to a very changed world. The shackles of Galactic control have bound Earth and humanity ever tighter to the System. Now, John has to find a way to free Earth from Galactic control while battling stronger, more powerful enemies. And worst of all, he will need to indulge in politics. Good thing he's got a new Class and new allies. World's Unbound is book six of the System Apocalypse, a LitRPG / GameLit series of post-apocalypse troubles, scifi & fantasy elements, all in a world filled with game mechanics. This series contains elements of games like level ups, experience, enchanted materials, a sarcastic spirit, mecha, a beguiling dark elf, monsters, minotaurs, a fiery red head and a semi-realistic view on violence and its effects. Does not include harems.

Coast on Fire: System Apocalypse Book 5 by Tao Wong

The Flames of Freedom Consume All, Serf & Owners Alike Reluctant ruler of the settlements in British Columbia, John and his friends are the spearhead of the human forces on the West Coast of North America. However, his enemies have taken notice of the burgeoning power and bring in external help to cut him and his allies off before they grow in power. When politics and innocent lives are in play, John finds that honour is an impediment to victory. He'll need to navigate the treacherous waters of Galactic politics and human interests, all while doing his best to hold to his values and not sacrificing more of his friends. Coast on Fire is book 5 of the bestselling System Apocalypse line of books, a LitRPG apocalyptic series that details a world thrown into confusion by the addition of a game-like system and the monsters that come with it. As reality bends and aliens walk the earth, heroes must arise.

Cities in Chains: System Apocalypse Book 4 by Tao Wong

It's been over a year since the System came to Earth, bringing blood and monsters in equal measure. Having left Whitehorse, John and his team travel down to British Columbia, running into new dangers from aliens and humans alike. Faced with new challenges and new enemies, John steps up once more to set things right and teach a few aliens why you never put humanity in chains. Cities in Chains is Book 4 of the System Apocalypse, a LitRPG novel set in a post-apocalyptic Earth that combines modern day life, science fiction and fantasy elements along with game mechanics.

The Cost of Survival: System Apocalypse Book 3 by Tao Wong

The Onlivik Spores have been defeated, the dungeon tamed but at great cost. John and his friends are reeling from the losses, but the countdown to full integration to the System continues. Threatened by System-integrated races and new, more powerful monsters, John will need to get creative if he and the city are to survive. The Cost of Survival is Book 3 of the System Apocalypse, a LitRPG / GameLit Apocalypse book that combines modern day life, science fiction and fantasy elements along with game mechanics.

Redeemer of the Dead: System Apocalypse Book 2 by Tao Wong

Four months ago, the world changed as electronics failed and blue screens started appearing, gifting humanity with abilities, Classes and Skills straight from a game. Caught in Klondike National Park during the apocalypse, John manages to fight his way free and reach Whitehorse. Unfortunately, the System hasn't finished with humanity yet and dungeons begin to appear, bringing with them more powerful, stronger and smarter monsters. Can John and his friends survive and level up? Redeemer of the Dead is Book 2 of the System Apocalypse, a LitRPG / GameLit Apocalypse book that combines modern day life, science fiction and fantasy elements along with game mechanics.

The Second Sect: A Thousand Li Book 5 by Tao Wong

Not All Injuries Heal True. Wu Ying saved his master from the machinations of the dark sect but was gravely injured during the process. His body has changed, his bloodline awakened and his cultivation compromised. Physicians and healers at the Verdant Green Water can do nothing for him. Forced to travel to a new sect for healing, Wu Ying might find opportunity in his distress. But the dark sect is not done with him, or their machinations. Caught up in the winds of war, Wu Ying and his friends must continue to balance their journey to immortality against the pull of mortal politics. The Second Sect is the fifth novel in the A Thousand Li series, a book on immortal cultivation, wondrous martial arts, evil cultivation sects and spirit beasts. This series will be loved by those searching for wuxia and xianxia works and those looking for a more westernised cultivation story.

The Citrine Key by L.L.MacRae

A stolen artefact. An ancient dragon. One man’s final chance. Life-long thief Apollo Tamlin has been marked for execution. When the mage Queen Surayo offers him a pardon, he doesn’t ask questions - any task she has is better than a walk to the gallows. Succeed, and not only will it preserve peace in his homeland, but Apollo can rebuild the life he’s ruined. Sent to a distant continent to feed a stolen artefact to an ancient and powerful dragon spirit sounds simple, but things quickly start going wrong. His companions are not what they seem, the dragon would rather eat him, and the artefact displays its own magic - throwing the entire mission into peril.

The Second Expedition: A Thousand Li Book 4 by Tao Wong

Even the great may fall. Wu Ying's idle winter, one filled with training and recovery, is thrown awry when his Master and Elder Yang return, injured. The Three Seasons poison fills Master Cheng's veins, slowly killing the powerful Elder. His only hope - a rare antidote. But the ingredients for such an antidote are scarce and located in the deepest wilds. Together, Wu Ying and Elder Yang take it upon themselves to embark on a Second Expedition to acquire the necessary materials. It would be a dangerous journey through the State of Wei normally, but in the shadows, enemies await to finish the job. Wu Ying is once again pitched against dark forces as a Sect war looms. The Second Expedition is book 4 of the A Thousand Li series which focuses on immortal cultivation, eastern philosophy, wondrous martial art styles and spirit beasts. The series draws upon the long tradition of wuxia and xianxia works and will thrill those looking for such high flying fantasy.

The First War: A Thousand Li Book 3 by Tao Wong

As war threatens his family, Wu Ying must decide on his path to immortality and the mortal ties that bind Winter has passed, taking with it the hope of peace. The state of Wei deploy an increasing number of cultivators and soldiers, intent on taking over the state of Shen. Caught in-between the armies is Wu Ying's village and all those that he cares about. Advised to keep away from the approaching war, Wu Ying will have to decide what is more important - his journey to immortality or the ties to the mortal that he holds onto still. Or perhaps, there is a third way, one that balances both the needs of Heaven and destiny and the karmic ties of the family. The First War is book three of the xianxia cultivation series, A Thousand Li. The series features immortal cultivation, gods, wondrous martial art styles and spirit beasts and will be loved by wuxia and xanxia fans.

The First Stop: A Thousand Li Book 2 by Tao Wong

Who knew immortal cultivation came with so many decisions? As an inner sect member in the Verdant Green Waters, Long Wu Ying must navigate the customs of the cultivators and choose his secondary occupation. From immortal alchemists, blacksmiths, physicians, martial specialists and more, Wu Ying must find an occupation that defines and contributes to his dao. Outside, the drums of war continue to beat and the Sect is about to be pulled deeper into the battle for supremacy between states. The Sect Elders will take Wu Ying and his friends on a desperate gamble to prepare for the upcoming war, putting to test everything that Wu Ying has learnt. As Wu Ying stops and takes account of himself and the Sect, he will need to accept his place in this new martial world, put aside his past and strive for the future. The First Stop is the second novel in A Thousand Li series, a book on cultivation, immortals, wondrous martial art styles and spirit beasts. This series will be loved by wuxia and xanxia fans and those looking for a more westernised cultivation story.

Another Day, Another Plot: Eternal Night Book 2 by Tao Wong

It’s a long way down from the top. In the world of Eternal Night, Johnathan Masters is at the top of his game. He’s worked hard to build up his influence, trading favours and playing politics. But when a Blood from another city arrives on the scene and attempts to cut into his business by increasing his own status, Johnathan is forced to defend his turf. Maybe he’ll play nice. But then again, sometimes a bit of tough love sends the right message. Another Day, Another Plot is the second work in Eternal Night, A Vampire LitRPG Short Story series, written by Tao Wong, author of the bestselling System Apocalypse and A Thousand Li series of books.

Zeroth Law (Digitesque #1) by Guerric Haché

Autonomous machines polish the bones of a civilization slowly being swallowed by wilderness. Creatures not born of Earth inhabit the remote corners of the world. Humans live with legacies they don’t understand - old ruins, strange technological artifacts, incredible powers in their blood. There are other worlds alongside this one, and death is not what it once was. Isavel is ripped from a simple life into the heat of a conflict she doesn’t understand, and saddled with powers and expectations she doesn’t know how to handle. Lost in a storm, she hopes that by following the will of her gods, she might find purpose - and ultimately, peace. Ada took her own peaceful life and threw it out the window. Outcast for heresy against the scholarly dogma of her people, she decides the world needs to change, and she thinks she’s the one to do it. To her surprise, she happens to be living at a time of more wondrous and terrible change than she can imagine. These two young women must navigate a world that is is barely holding together, each only slowly becoming aware of the other’s existence and power. Each of them will have the chance to light a fire to change the world - but first, they must become the people they will need to be.

Sacrifice (The Gods of Trivium, Book 1) by Vicky Walklate

Dragon gods rule the realm, demons lurk in the shadows and a sorcerer hides a dangerous secret. A war is brewing in Jothesia, and the gods have no idea. Being selected as human sacrifice to the immortal dragon shifters is supposedly an honor, but rebellious Libby doesn’t see it that way. When the sacrificial ritual goes badly wrong, she finds herself in a reluctant alliance with eldest god Rhetahn. He’s grumpy, cynical and utterly exasperating …and she can’t get him out of her head. Rhetahn knows there’s something wrong with this sacrifice, and it’s not just her infuriating stubbornness or the way she makes his jaded heart skip a beat. When misfortune befalls his brothers and renders him powerless, his only choice is to unite with Libby to seek answers. Setting out on a dangerous quest across the realm, the compelling attraction between them is undeniable, yet doomed. To recover his magic, regain his strength and prevent the demons from seizing power, Rhetahn needs her blood. He must kill her at the end of their journey, even if it breaks his heart to do so. But a terrible power lies hidden in Jothesia, one that could destroy everything the gods have built. Libby and Rhetahn’s forbidden relationship may be the realm’s only hope against utter ruin.

All Things Huge And Hideous by G. Scott Huggins

"Hilarious! Veterinary horror like Terry Pratchett would write!" -- D.J. Butler, author of WITCHY EYE "A rollicking adventure that hits all the right notes." --Christopher Ruocchio, Award-Winning Author of The Sun Eater Series Everyone says it was better in the Good Old Days. Before the Dark Lord subjugated us. Before he gave all the good land to his ogres, orcs and trolls, reducing the civilized races to serfdom and the dirty work: pig farming, sewer cleaning, veterinary medicine. But even before that happened, things weren't that much different for the veterinarians. Everyone cheered the heroes who rode their unicorn chargers into combat against the Dark Lord's dragons, but no one ever remembered who treated the unicorns’ phosphine burns afterward. The only real difference is that now I'm treating the dragons. Today I have to save one's life. Know what fewmets are? No? Then make a sacrifice of thanks right now to whatever gods you worship, because I have only a few hours to figure a way to get them flowing back out of the Dark Lord’s favorite dragon. Yeah, from the other end. And that’s just my most illustrious client. I’ve got orcs and trolls who might eat me and dark elf barons who might sue me if their bloodhawks and chimeras don’t pull through. And that doesn’t even consider the possibility that the old hag with the basilisk might show up. The only thing that’s gone right this evening is finding Harriet to be my veterinary assistant. She’s almost a witch, which just might save us both. If we don’t kill each other first.

First Steps into the Night: Eternal Night Book 1 by Tao Wong

Step Carefully For The Night Is Dark Kylie Porter needs a break. Novacore VR's Eternal Night is it - the VR vampire game that her editor wants her to write about. But she's not a gamer, so she's going to have to learn to fake it for her article. With a little help. Johnathan Masters is that help. An old friend who is doing her a favour, he's a lot more confident and good looking in the game, even if they've both touched themselves up. But she's a professional and this is just a game. None of it's really real? Is it? First Steps into the Night is a Vampire LitRPG Short Story (approximately 10k long) written by Tao Wong, the author of the System Apocalypse, Hidden Wishes and A Thousand Li series. It is not a fade-to-black story, set in a VR vampire MMORPG.

The Technopath: A Powers, Masks and Capes Universe Novelette by Tao Wong

Breaking News: Confessions of the Supervillain Mask the Technopath! In an exclusive scoop, the Daily Messenger has acquired the transcript of the infamous Technopath’s interview with the Power Defense Authority upon her initial capture after the August 19th terrorist incident in downtown Mayson. Among the shocking revelations in the transcript is allusions to the PDA knowing of her villainous sire, on-going abuse of the children of Masks and accusations of terrorism and collusion against Mordant Technologies. For full details, just subscribe to the Daily Messenger within!

Always Beside You by Damir Salkovic

Help her open the door. It wants to come through… First, the dream. Now this message from the mouth of a stranger. It was too much of a coincidence for Nate Carver, and has him dropping everything to help a woman he hasn't even thought about in eight years, not since the overdose that almost took Cathy Deveraux's life. The prison escape of Thomas Elbert stirs up memories for Detective Alec Palmer, and the man's death raises questions. Why would a catatonic convicted killer suddenly wake up and escape, only to commit suicide days later? Or was it murder? And what connection did he have to Nate Carver, a man on the run with a daughter he never knew he had? All roads lead to Boston, where, in their search for answers, they will be drawn into the dark world of the occult and mysticism. Of parallel worlds and alternate realities. Of doors that open onto other times and other worlds. Of dreams that won’t be denied. By the time they realize they are merely pawns in a much bigger game, a game where the fate of the world is at stake, will it be too late?

A Gamer's Wish: Hidden Wishes Book 1 by Tao Wong

A Magic Ring, an unsuspecting mundane and a hidden world. What could go wrong? Henry Tsien has been living the quiet life of a mundane mortal until he stumbles upon a magical ring. Within, an ancient jinn resides, willing to grant him his deepest desires. Faced with gaining his greatest desires, Henry wishes for magic. Granted magic and magical knowledge in increments, Henry stumbles into a world of adventure and a hidden magical world that is more banal and wondrous than he could ever imagine. A Gamer’s Wish is book 1 of the GameLit fantasy trilogy Hidden Wishes. With game-like elements, incredible magic, a beautiful game-addicted Jinn as a companion, and shadowy supernatural organizations, this story is the adventure you’ve been waiting for. No romance or harems involved.

Life in the North: System Apocalypse Book 1 by Tao Wong

SPSFC

What happens when the apocalypse arrives, not via nuclear weapons or a comet but as Levels and monsters? What if you were camping in the Yukon when the world ended? All John wanted to do was get away from his life in Kluane National Park for a weekend. Hike, camp and chill. Instead, the world comes to an end in a series of blue boxes. Animals start evolving, monsters start spawning and he has a character sheet and physics defying skills. Now, he has to survive the apocalypse, get back to civilisation and not lose his mind. The System has arrived and with it, aliens, monsters and a reality that draws upon past legends and game-like reality. John will need to find new friends, deal with his ex and the slavering monsters that keep popping up. Life in the North is Book 1 of the System Apocalypse, a LitRPG Apocalypse series that combines modern day life, science fiction and fantasy elements along with game mechanics. This series contains elements of games like level ups, experience, enchanted materials, a sarcastic spirit, mecha, a beguiling dark elf, monsters, minotaurs, a fiery red head and a semi-realistic view on violence and its effects. Does not include harems.

The First Step: A Thousand Li Book 1 by Tao Wong

Indie Recs Indie

Long Wu Ying never expected to join a Sect or become a real cultivator. His days were spent studying, planting rice on the family farm and spending time with his friends. Fate, however, has different plans for Wu Ying and when the army arrives at his village, he and many other members of the village are conscripted. Given the opportunity to join the Verdant Green Waters Sect, Wu Ying must decide between his pedestrian, common life and the exciting, blood soaked life of a cultivator. Join Wu Ying as he takes his first step on his Thousand Li journey to become an immortal cultivator. The First Step is the first novel in A Thousand Li series, a book on cultivation, immortals, wondrous martial art styles and spirit beasts and will be loved by wuxia and xanxia fans. The First Step is written by Tao Wong, the bestselling scifi and fantasy LitRPG author of the System Apocalypse, Adventures on Brad and the Hidden Wishes.

The Cary Grant Sanatorium and Playhouse by Will Tinkham

THE CARY GRANT SANATORIUM AND PLAYHOUSE is a screwball drama involving disgraced Hollywood starlet, Donna Darling, and two-time German Army deserter, Séamus von Funck. They meet in 1942 at an idyllic Ohio home for unwed mothers—or a Nazi abortion slaughterhouse, depending on whom you talk to. Their love endures despite the efforts of a power-hungry congressman, an overzealous religious tabloid, and Donna's Hollywood past—yes, including Cary Grant. They prevail despite Séamus being a suspected Nazi spy and America's first prisoner of the second World War—and also the first to escape. Donna returns to her chosen profession, nursing, and Séamus completes his medical training under an alias while still on the lam. Despite their early struggles, the couple raises three fine children: Frederick Douglass von Funck, Clara Barton von Funck and Walt Whitman von Funck. The family thrives until their bi-racial, eldest child runs smack into the civil rights turmoil of the 1960s.

Split Paths (Fall of Emros 2) by Thomas J Devens

Paths split, sometimes to merge once more. Sometimes only to stray ever further. Friends and comrades are made, lost, and sometimes, against all odds, found again. None can predict the turns one’s life may take. None can predict the losses to come. One can only hope. A killer seeks his path to freedom. A path away from the blood that has haunted his life. A young warrior, journeys to a new world in search of glory, only to find himself forgotten. A sellsword searches for an easy job. The mercenaries of the Stone and Shield have suffered great losses, their numbers decimated, many comrades lost. The bulk of the surviving mercenaries return to their home in Frostmoor on the edge of the Norwaldian Wilderness. Eager to begin a period of rest while they winter in. Others survive, scattered across the world. Whether arriving on the distant western shores, far from the reaches of the Emrosian Empire, or in the capital of the troubled kingdom of Talres. For some of the surviving mercenaries, there will be anything but a time of rest.

Drive by Courtney Maguire

In the conservative East Texas town of Black Creek, you’re either old money or you work for them. Redmond Cole is the latter. The long hours he spends fixing fancy cars in the local garage are barely enough to support himself, let alone his sixteen-year-old half-sister, Katie. All he wants is a better life for the both of them, one that’s easy and real, but he has a secret. One that could blow up the meager existence he’s worked so hard to maintain.Red is gay.He doesn’t want to lie, especially to Katie, but Black Creek isn’t the most hospitable environment for those who are different. His secrets keep them safe. He’s all but resigned to a life in the closet when he’s propositioned by the dashing, wealthy Victor Itachi. What follows is a secret and intense sexual relationship that challenges everything Red believes about himself. When an unlikely friendship with the only out gay man in town opens Red’s eyes to new possibilities, he must make a choice: submit fully to the relative safety of Victor’s control or risk it all for a chance at real love.

Wounded Martyr by Courtney Maguire

Ice is an asshole, but he’s working on it. He’s two years sober, no small feat when you front a heavy metal band facing waning popularity and dismal ticket sales. But the pieces of a life torn apart by alcoholism are finally coming back together. His band, Wounded Martyr, has written a great album with the potential to launch them back into relevancy. And Ricky, probably the biggest, most important piece, has finally forgiven him for the wreck he made of their relationship. There’s only one problem. Ashton. It was to be expected. As his best friend and bandmate for almost twenty years, it’s only natural they should find each other in the loneliness of the road. Ricky knows about their one night together, but he doesn’t know that Ice can’t stop thinking about it, about his long body and whiskey-flavored lips, and the guilt of it has him on the brink of backslide. Now that Wounded Martyr is poised for a long tour, Ice must find a way to resist temptation or risk blowing their last chance and destroying his relationship with the two most important men in his life.

The Gottingen Accident by James Mordechai

SPSFC 2023 SFINCS

What if three famous scientists with superhero powers do team up to fight a villain that wants to subvert the very fabric of the Universe by using non-Euclidean geometry? What if the Germans won the Great War and the 1917 Bolshevik revolution never took place? Time is not always a straight line and sometimes it can expand and contract. Then, Charles Darwin could change the evolutionary destiny of any living being and be coeval with Marie Curie that in turn could see through walls thanks to her X-Ray vision. A terrible accident, the Gottingen Accident, made them all. It made them like this. Superhumans. Or maybe just monsters.

The Y Front Chronicles by Alan Scott

The Y Front Chronicles' is set in the year of our Lord 3256, and is the diary of a trained soldier on the run from the authorities The diary details his nine month stay on board a Starship, his thoughts on his past, present and future, his lovers, his hamster, daytime TV, the adult film industry, and his constant search for a pair of comfortable underwear. Read his diary if you dare.

Tales of Salvation and Damnation by Alan Scott

Writing Style: Dialogue and Character driven Book Type: Dark Fantasy You may like, if you enjoy the following authors: by Anne Bishop, David Gemmell, and Joe Abercrombie ‘Tales of Salvation and Damnation’ is the seventh book in dark fantasy series “The Storm Series”, and is a book of short stories set within the land of Talocants For me, one of the strengths of ‘The Storm Series’ is that it constantly changes and evolves, and the stories within “Tales of Salvation and Damnation” continue that fine tradition. As always, I’ve tried to make the stories full accessible for new readers, whilst giving long term readers answers to some of their questions.

The Darkness Within by Michael D. Nadeau

The Incarnation of death has been slowed, but at a cost. Rhoe and his companions must reach the city of Everknight and find a way to stop the Incarnation for good.Yet Everknight is not a safe city. Intrigue and assassins lie around every corner, and the mastermind behind it is eager for Rhoe to arrive. Revelations and long hidden secrets come to light, but will they help our heroes cause... or tear it all down? (Book 2 in the Lythinall series)

The Darkness Returns by Michael D. Nadeau

When an ancient evil is loosed upon the land of Lythinall, a young warrior is swept up into a perilous journey across his homeland to stop it. Drawn into a dangerous prophecy, he travels with the legendary bard Karis and the Princess of Evernight to realms he never knew existed. They will be tested as hidden forces watch with bated breath, knowing this could be the end...

Under New Suns by C. Vandyke

After generations of warfare against the ominous Swarm, the United Planetary Alliance settles on a desperate gambit—send a squad of Marines to steal one of the Swarm’s bio-organic battleships. However, it turns out the ship isn’t merely alive but fully sentient... and it has a mission of its own. As the ship leaps across the galaxy, dimensions, and eventually reality itself, the crew has a new goal—stay alive! Join Skullgate Media on an epic space-opera filled with sexy murder-queens, ring-planets, and freaking space-sharks, all fueled by psychedelic Vesuvian coffee and sixth-dimensional funk! Tales From The Year Between is Skullgate’s anthology series that brings together writers from around the globe to invent an original world from scratch. After two weeks of intense world-building, each author sets out to expand their new, fabulous universe through short-stories, flash fiction poems, songs or whatever else their boundless imaginations unleash. Each volume is new, exciting, and utterly unique. (Contains stories by: Laila Amado, Emily Ansell, Gabrielle Awe, B.K. Bass, Steven Bayer, Jayme Bean, Darius Bearguard, Jonathan Beck, Elvira Canaveral, Zackery Cuevas, Aaron Hockett, E. R. Hoffer, A. R. K. Horton, Debbie Iancu-Haddad, Daniel James, Allison N. Moore, Jeremy Nelson, S. L. Parker, Sarah Remy/Alex Hall, A. A. Rubin, CD Storiz, Kelly Washington, C. Vandyke, and Phebe Yawson.)

Loathsome Voyages by Chris Durston CD Storiz

A blood-soaked writing desk. A town where going missing is ominously routine. A portal to another dimension within a mirror. Inside these pages are tales of gods and monsters, of madness and obsession, of passion and unknowable terrors. Loathsome Voyages presents tales ranging from the delectably dark to the shockingly surreal. Some possess an uncanny horror, others a frightful beauty. All are journeys into strange worlds from which you may never return. Inspired by the work of weird fiction masters old and new--from Lovecraft to Miéville, from Hodgson to VanderMeer--this treacherous, eldritch volume brings together fourteen of today's best authors of speculative fiction. Join Skullgate Media as we embark on our most Loathsome Voyages.Contains stories by B.K. Bass, Chris Durston, Gary A. Fagan, Zack Friday, Anthony Harris, Christopher Harris, Mackenzie Litledale, Michael D. Nadeau, Michelle River, J.L. Royce, Mark J. Shultis, CD Storiz, and C. Vandyke. Edited by CD Storiz and Chris Durston. For more information about Skullgate Media go to www.skullgatemedia.com or follow us on Twitter as @skullgatemedia

Owl Eyes Motel by Barbara Avon

The year is 1985, and there's a storm brewing. It's the kind that forces even the derelicts to retreat to their gutters. Each room is its own unique story; each chapter, a room. Check in at Owl Eyes and stay a spell, won't you? There's always room for the dead. "Come in! Come in! Welcome to the Owl Eyes Motel. My name is Milton and I am the owner of this fine establishment, situated on Route Number 666. That's six-hundred and sixty-six. Owl Eyes offers impeccable service. There is no lack of creature comforts at this here motel. At Owl Eyes, we pride ourselves on our attention to detail. Management kindly reminds you that we are not responsible for lost luggage...or souls." *Some scenes depict dark and sensitive themes.

Blood Pact by Courtney Maguire

In Hiro’s world, youkai are a supernatural story used to scare children into obedience, and to keep men out of back alleys and brothels. Until Sakurai Hideyoshi walks through his door with a fantastical tale of a samurai who had killed a thousand men and drank the blood of his enemies, a man that lived in darkness but sought beauty to keep it at bay. A story both terrifying and romantic…and completely ridiculous. Unless it is true. Convinced something softer lurks behind Hideyoshi’s hard mask, Hiro follows him home. And discovers the story is real. Only instead of the blood of his enemies, it is innocent blood taken. Hideyoshi tells him never to return. Yet after Hiro’s mother is mortally wounded, Hiro runs back to the one being he knows with the power to save her. When Hideyoshi can’t, Hiro begs him for the next best thing: the power to avenge her. As Hiro becomes youkai, he faces a new threat, something darker, older, and far more dangerous. With Hideyoshi at his side, Hiro must decide what he’s willing to sacrifice--and what he’s willing to do--to protect this new life before he loses everything for a second time.

Bloodlaced by Courtney Maguire

Kanjin hardly view their servants as human. Even less so when they are different. Asagi is different. Both a man and a woman. In the wake of his failure to protect a boy he saw as a son from their abusive master, Asagi is sold into the house of a young nobleman, Mahiro, who is the opposite of everything Asagi has ever known—gentle, kind, and generous. Mahiro bonds with Asagi and their friendship blooms into a deep and profound love. But when Asagi is poisoned out of jealousy, Mahiro reveals himself to be youkai, a demon who feeds on blood, and he has no choice but to turn Asagi to save their life. Asagi awakes reborn, strong, and eternally youthful. But the price for Asagi’s new life is high. The blood of the innocent. Just as Asagi’s trust in Mahiro falters, the boy he failed to protect, now a man, reappears.​ New master, same threat. With both a literal and proverbial monster at the door, Asagi must decide what it means to be human to protect what they love most. Content Warnings: physical abuse, sexual abuse (off-page), self-harm, blood, graphic violence

The Rain Dancer by Alan Scott

People often take for granted the small things in life, like being able to shower and get dressed without having to convince their mind and body to get out of bed. For many, that isn’t a daily struggle. When the alarm clock rings, they turn it off, roll out of bed, and start their day. For those diagnosed and labelled with conditions such as dyslexia, however, that struggle is crippling. Branded, lazy, stupid, cheats, the world convinces millions of people every day that they are unworthy of love and unimportant in the grand scheme of things. Labelled with a learning difficulty that makes him feel inferior, 50-year-old Alan starts to reflect on his life and the world around him. Whilst working a typical 9-5 office job, he explores the facets of the world that many overlook, including an inside look at motherhood, prescription drug abuse, and roles in the workplace. From how dress code is enforced more on women than men, the unfulfillment that comes with abusing sex, alcohol, and food, to the importance and acceptance of sexuality, every bullet of truth comes to a startling realization: the world does not view everyone equally. As Alan digs deeper into his memories, regrets of the past blend with momentary victories to cast light on topics that many choose to avoid or overlook. Addiction to social media. The overwhelming noise coming from TV, songs, and news. The robotic movements of people he passes by on the street, and how taboo it is to look at nature or each other. What society classes as success. Based partly on the real-world struggles of dyslexia and the problems associated with it, The Rain Dancer takes an in-depth look at the pain and emotions caused by everyday interactions. Depression, societal expectations, and the niceties of human interactions, Alan Scott paints a vivid picture of the morals and ethics that govern life.

Stories for a Storm Filled Night by Alan Scott

Writing Style: Dialogue and Character driven Book Type: Dark Fantasy You may like, if you enjoy the following authors: by Anne Bishop, David Gemmell, and Joe Abercrombie ‘Stories for a Storm Filled Night’, is the first book of short stories sent within the dark fantasy trilogy the ‘Storm Series’. It’s a standalone book, hence will be perfect for new readers to the saga. It will transport them to the land of Talocants, where they will discover, werewolves, heroes, and villains. For readers who have already read books 1 and 2 of the trilogy, it will answer a few questions they might have – What actually happened during the Chestnut murders? How did the Brethren of the Night Start? There are a total of eight short stories, all of which add additional background to characters and events within the trilogy.

A Dark and Hungry Storm by Alan Scott

Writing Style: Dialogue and Character driven Book Type: Dark Fantasy You may like, if you enjoy the following authors: by Anne Bishop, David Gemmell, and Joe Abercrombie If you have enjoyed the previous two books then, the final novel in the series will provide the ending you are looking for. Jack Rothgal desperately attempts to fulfil his destiny and become the Ultimate Spirit Warrior and regain the Twin Kingdoms for his little sister. Deep within her Palace in the city of Deep Lake Queen Rebecca Rothgal works tirelessly to protect the Twin Kingdoms against all threats; including her big brother.

scions of a storm by Alan Scott

Writing Style: Dialogue and Character driven Book Type: Dark Fantasy Themes(s): relationships, forbidden love, loss, power, prejudice and ultimately, the monster which lurks inside us all. Target audience: The open-minded reader who enjoys a more mature and gritty storylines in their fantasy books Scions of the Storm’ is the second instalment in the ‘Storm Series’ trilogy and covers the next sixteen years of this epic tale. It continues the tales of Kathleen and Jane, and their now separate journeys. Kathleen has survived her trials and is now Queen of the Twin Kingdoms. She is happily married to Karl Rothgal and has two children by him – Jack, the eldest, and Rebecca, their younger daughter. For the first time in the series, hints are revealed about the two deadly, but hidden, forces that are using the Twin Kingdoms as a pawn in their eons old game of domination. War is coming to the Twin Kingdoms, but can Kathleen and Jane work out who to trust and who the actual enemy are before it is too late?

Of Blood and Deceit by Rachel A. Collett

Magic runs in the Drakara bloodline. To seventeen-year-old Ilianna it’s a curse. Born a bastard and raised by an abusive uncle, she struggles to conceal her late-bloomed gifts, but it’s hard to hide when your uncle is king. The kingdom of Eira recovers from over a decade of warring an overseas enemy. Ilianna trains from youth to fight in her uncle’s militia, to keep her people from the grip of the Wraith Queen, even if she’s feared by everyone except the one that controls her. When it seems that peace is assured, her uncle offers her up to be married to their neighboring realm. However, Ilianna has no intention of accepting and flees the king’s rule only to wind up captured by the very enemy she was promised to. Prince Castiel, a powerful leader and cunning strategist, recognizes a disguised Ilianna the moment he sees her. When his strange prison guest does nothing but patiently wait for three long months, he forces her to make her move. Ilianna must tame her fears and control a rogue power before her uncle kills her for disobedience or worse, reclaims her and her magic.