Showing posts with label Dystopian. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Dystopian. Show all posts

Tuesday, May 6, 2025

Young Adult Dystopian Spotlight: Shadowed Skies by Haley Cavanagh

Today, I have a recently released young adult dystopian novel in our book spotlight spot! Check out Shadowed Skies, learn about author Haley Cavanagh, and be sure to enter for a chance to win a prize in the book tour giveaway at the end of this post. 

 

YA Dystopian Fantasy Romance

Date Published: 03-25-2025

Publisher: John Hunt Publishing


 

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About the Book

 

In the shadowed aftermath of global destruction, humanity’s hope takes flight on the wings of the Evol-humans. River Shaw, secluded in his high-altitude sanctuary, seeks solace after a life scarred by loss. His quiet existence is disrupted when Delene Fairborne, fleeing captivity and a dark past, crashes into his world. Together, they find strength in their unique abilities, resisting the sinister forces that hunt them for a cure only their blood can provide. 

 As love blossoms amidst the chaos, they face a ruthless scientist hell-bent on harnessing their power. Shadowed Skies is a tale of survival, sacrifice, and soaring hope, where two souls, bound by destiny, fight for a world on the brink. Dive into a world where love flies against insurmountable odds.



About the Author

Haley Cavanagh is a military veteran, wife, and mother. She is a multiple award-winning and best-selling author and the two-time recipient of the League of Utah Writers Silver Quill Award in 2020 and 2024. Haley is an alumna of Columbia College, a musical theater nut, and she loves to dive into any book that crosses her path. Haley resides with her family in the United States and enjoys spending time with her husband and children when she’s not writing. She loves to hear from her readers and encourages you to contact her via her website and social media.

 

Connect with the Author

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Wednesday, March 26, 2025

Young Adult Christian Dystopian Spotlight: The End - Alpha by Aaron Ryan

Today, I have a young adult Christian dystopian novel in our book blitz spotlight! Check out The End: Alpha, learn about author Aaron Ryan, and be sure to enter for a chance to win a prize in the book tour giveaway at the end of this post. 



YA Christian Sci-Fi/Dystopian

Date Published: 03-05-2025

 


 

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About the Book

 

When a man in power believes he's God, mankind doesn't have a prayer

  


About the Author

Award-winning and bestselling author Aaron Ryan lives in Washington with his wife and two sons, along with Macy the dog, Winston the cat, and Merry & Pippin, the finches.

He is the author of the bestselling "Dissonance" 6-book alien invasion saga, the post-apocalyptic Christian fiction saga "The End," the sci-fi thrillers "Forecast" and "The Slide," the children's picture books "The Ring of Truth," "The Sword of Joy" and "The Book of Power," the business reference business books "How to Successfully Self-Publish & Promote Your Self-Published Book" and "The Superhero Anomaly", 6 business books on voiceovers penned under his former stage name (Joshua Alexander), as well as a previous fictional novel, "The Omega Room."

When he was in second grade, he was tasked with writing a creative assignment: a fictional book.  And thus, "The Electric Boy" was born: a simple novella full of intrigue, fantasy, and 7-year-old wits that electrified Aaron's desire to write.  From that point forward, Aaron evolved into a creative soul that desired to create.

He enjoys the arts, media, music, performing, poetry, and being a daddy.  In his lifetime he has been an author, voiceover artist, wedding videographer, stage performer, musician, producer, rock/pop artist, executive assistant, service manager, paperboy, CSR, poet, tech support, worship leader, and more.  The diversity of his life experiences gives him a unique approach to business, life, ministry, faith, and entertainment.

Aaron's favorite author by far is J.R.R. Tolkien, but he also enjoys Suzanne Collins, James S.A. Corey, Michael Crichton, Marie Lu, Madeleine L'Engle, John Grisham, Tom Clancy, Tim Lebbon, Christopher Golden, C.S. Lewis, Stephen King and Dave Barry.

Aaron has always had a passion for storytelling. Visit the Dissonance saga website at https://www.dissonancetheseries.com or The End saga website at https://thisisnottheend.com.


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Monday, January 27, 2025

Young Adult Dystopian Spotlight: Convergence by Esther Cordova

My daughters and I have always loved finding new young adult dystopian thrillers to share! Today, I have a new novel from author Esther Cordova that is getting great reviews in our book spotlight! Check out Convergence and learn about the author! 


 

Young Adult Fiction

Published: 1/21/2025

 
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About the Book

 

Convergence is The Hunger Games meets Ex Machina—a gripping YA dystopian novel that dives deep into love, consciousness, and the ethical dilemmas of AI. 

 

When Maya leaves her secluded village to save her sister's life in a futuristic city, she uncovers a chilling plot that threatens the very fabric of humanity. If you hate predictable villains and love stories with jaw-dropping twists, morally complex characters, and thought-provoking questions, this book will captivate you. 

 

As one reader said, "I rarely get so intrigued by something that I end up zoning out for a few moments to have a mental discussion over the morality of those implications." 

 

Ready to question what it truly means to be human? Convergence is your next unputdownable read.

 

 Buy the Book

 
 
 

About the Author

 

Author Esther Cordova is on a mission to change mindsets around the world. It’s a simple enough change, she wants to add the word YET. 

 

When children say ‘I can’t do that’, she adds the word ‘yet’. (Great advice for adults too!) Esther believes that this simple concept will help children overcome their fears and strive to learn as much as they can in life. One word makes an important difference!

 

Connect with the Author

 Website

 

Friday, January 10, 2025

Middle Grade Fiction Review: The After by J. Taylor

I love dystopian-style fiction and share reading young adult books with my daughters was always a highligh of my week! Today, I have a middle-grade fiction book that is perfect for share reading or read alone! Check out young adult dystopian novel The After, read my thoughts on the book, learn about the author & enter for a chance to win a prize in the book tour giveaway at the end of this post!


 

​Book TitleTHE AFTER by Joanne Taylor
Category:  Middle-Grade Fiction & YA Fiction (10 to 15 yrs old),  183 pages
Genre: Fictional Dystopian
Publisher:  FriesenPress
Release date:  October 2024
Content RatingG. No swearing, drug use, sex scenes, violence (minimal)

"Taylor’s debut is a taut tale of survival in a post-pandemic world that’s buoyed by an amiable protagonist and a well- developed setting. ... A riveting beginning to a promising new series." - Kirkus Reviews

"The After introduces an intrepid teenage heroine as she explores a changed world... this first series title lays ample groundwork for the coming volumes." - Foreword Clarion Review

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About the Book


Despite the deadly virus that caused borders to close and governments to fall ten years earlier, fourteen-year-old Charlotte and her family have lived a challenging yet relatively peaceful life, isolated on their acreage in rural Nova Scotia. However, when Charlotte discovers that an interloper has infiltrated their property, she must decide between keeping the potential threat a secret or embracing the potential for companionship that the intrusion represents. As the chaotic world that lurks outside the fence surrounding her farm disrupts Charlotte’s life even further, she must reach deep within herself and find the courage to become the mature young woman she claims to be—or risk losing everything that she and her family have worked so hard to build.
 
My Review
 
Excellent Storytelling Creates the Perfect Series Opener. I settled immediately into the author's writing style. The world she created feels real, with interesting characters and a believable plot. The author doesn't overload readers with blocks of background information; the pieces come together naturally to "fill in" the reader about the past and move the story forward. There was not a single moment of the story that was boring or confusing, or that felt silly or contrived. I was fully engaged within the first couple of pages, and I have added the series to my "watch list" so that I can continue with the next book!
Great for Parents and Tween/Teen Readers. The story is interesting as it sets up the world for the series, builds some suspense and urgency and explores the teen main character's emotions and growth. It appeals perfectly to a tween or younger teen audience but is engaging and well-developed enough for an adult audience, too—especially those who enjoy clean reads without "shock-value" add-ins! The book fits the G rating but doesn't feel childish or undeveloped.
Would I Recommend The After by J. Taylor? "The After" is a great middle-grade dystopian novel that is age-appropriate and very well-developed. The novel ends with loose ends, so you'll be adding the series to your to-be-read list and looking forward to the next book. I enjoyed this book from beginning to end and will definitely look to continue the series when a new novel is released! 

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Friday, June 14, 2024

Dystopian Fiction Review: R - A Novel by Eli Wellington

This morning, I have a dystopian novel in our book review spotlight! Mysteries and dsytopian fiction are may favorite genre and this one combines a little of both as the author maneuvers his characters through his storyline.  Check out R-A Novel, learn about author Eli Wellington, read my thoughts on the book & enter for a chance to win a prize in the book tour giveaway at the end of this post.



​Book TitleR: A NOVEL by Eli Wellington
Category:  Adult Fiction (18 +),  340 pages
Genre: Dystopian , Science Fiction
Publisher:  Dystopian Publishing
Release date:  April 2024
Content RatingPG-13 + M to R. The book includes violence, sex, white supremacy, adult language


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About the Book


From the author of The Compound, this gripping dystopian novel explores the delicate lines between truth and propaganda. As the president focuses all efforts on securing his position of power, employing tactics that blur the lines between lawful governance and autocracy, a variety of individuals must confront their own beliefs, biases, and fears. R is a riveting exploration of the American psyche, examining the themes of racism, white supremacy, and the steadfast quest for power.

Each character, rooting in their own beliefs and experiences, provides a unique lens examining the fabric of America. As misinformation and conspiracy theories flood the internet colliding with legitimate news sources, the characters' paths intersect in unexpected ways, challenging their convictions. R isn't just a story; it's a wake-up call to the resilience of the human spirit, with a mirror reflecting our highest hopes and deepest fears.

​As the clock counts down to the election, the question remains: can democracy survive the storm, or will it crumble under the weight of its ideals betrayed?
 
My Review

 

R: A Novel Brings Readers a Fictional World That Feels a Little Too Real. I love thought-provoking fiction that bridges a fine line between fantasy world-building and modern-day reality. I am not always a fan of political thrillers, but the world created by Eli Wellington in this novel offers fans of political dramas and government manipulation a lot to love while also satisfying fans of futuristic, end-of-the-world-as-we-know-it novels and those of us interested in fictional adventures with real-world social commentary and psychological views. This novel may be classified as dystopian fiction, but the various characters' views, political manipulation, lies, deception, and perspectives feel quite realistic and relevant to our world.

 

Readers will follow a Varied Cast of Characters as They Navigate the Story. I enjoyed the character perspectives created by the author as the story progresses.  While each character shares in the primary plot, each brings their beliefs, fears, and agendas to the scenes. The writing style flawlessly moves the storyline from character to character, keeping a fast-paced flow and connecting dots for readers from the beginning to the last pages.  The plot feels realistic enough to be troubling but unique enough to engage readers hoping for positive outcomes. I enjoyed the characters and was quite invested in many--continuing to hold some hope for several as the novel ended.

 

Would I Recommend R-A Novel by Eli Wellington? I had expected the novel to be more of a political thriller--but it was more of a thought-provoking look at society, power, and deception.  While the novel is not a series, I would read more books focused on the characters from the book and would certainly seek out more stories from the author. The plot moves along nicely with well-written dialogue and realistic scenes and behaviors. If you are looking for a thought-provoking, adult dystopian novel with a well-developed plot and characters to love and hate, this is an excellent addition to your reading list. I enjoyed the author's writing style and idea development and will definitely read more novels from him in the future.

 
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Meet the Author

R is Eli Wellington's second novel. The author believes that fiction provides the perfect platform to make social commentary on the world around us and is influenced by authors such as George Orwell, Ayn Rand, and Arthur Koestler. Eli writes on an island in Greece.
 
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R: A NOVEL Book Tour Giveaway




Monday, June 3, 2024

Young Adult Dystopian Fiction Review: Deception is our Remedy by Alexandra Gavranovic

When my daughters were teens, we loved reading young adult fiction together. Dystopian, post-apocalyptic thrillers and series were our favorites. I always enjoy finding new novels and authors in this genre. Today, I am sharing my review of Deception is Our Remedy. Check out the novel, read my thoughts on the book, learn about author Alexandra Gavranovic and be sure to enter for a chance to win a prize in the book tour giveaway at the end of this post.


 

​Book Title:  DECEPTION IS OUR REMEDY by Alexandra Gavranovic
Category:  YA Fiction (Ages 13-17),  412 pages
GenreYA dystopian; YA survival stories; Sci-fi Fantasy
PublisherDumetella Press
Release date:  March 2024
Content Rating:  PG: Some minimal fight scenes and acts of violence
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About the Book

What if everything you thought you knew about the world - and yourself - was a lie? What would you do?

For 17-year-old Callista, growing up in a world stripped of all its color after the great climate crisis, every day looks the same in her Neighborhood. There are no other kids her age except for her best friend, Reggie. There are no events or activities. And there is no leaving. Cal rarely even steps outside her house except to pick up the month’s worth of dry, rationed food courtesy of the Government or for her routine trip to the doctor, which always leaves her feeling groggy and depleted.

And while she knows that she should just accept this life, she can’t help but wonder if there is something she isn’t being told. From whispered conversations she overhears of her parents to nightmares that feel more like memories jarring her awake in the middle of the night, Cal finally decides to find out for herself if there is something beyond the towering gates of her Neighborhood. Something that can provide answers.

But what she finds is more shocking than she could have imagined. When a giant floating object of immense light transports her to an abandoned city, Cal meets more people her age who also grew up in Neighborhoods. And, like the orb of light she can suddenly summon with her mind, these other people are also gifted with special abilities.

Before she can determine what is going on, they are all herded to a special Academy for the gifted, where they will learn to hone their abilities with other students just like them.

​But as Cal unravels her nightmares, everything she thought she knew about her former life starts to rip at the seams. And, as she spends more time with her fellow students in the Academy, she begins to wonder if she really escaped the Neighborhood at all.

Deception is Our Remedy is a fast-paced, dystopian adventure that will leave you guessing at every turn.
 
My Review

 

Deception is our Remedy Builds a Dystopian World. This book is long, filled with character introductions, world-building, and a series of twists and turns that move the characters through an action-packed plot. The novel blends elements from various fantasy and dystopian ideas to create a well-done world for the author's characters and, presumably, a related series. While teens coming to terms with abilities to fight injustice isn't unique, the author still creates interesting characters and engaging storylines while keeping the novel young adult-friendly.

 

Great Read for younger young adults. I enjoyed the characters but found some of their thoughts and actions immature. This book is intended for young adult readers/teens, so it actually fits the genre well—it just didn't pull older adult me in completely at times. I did like that the action scenes were realistically action-packed without being overly graphic or presented unnecessarily to the plot. The romance elements were also well suited to a teen audience.

 

Would I Recommend Deception in our Remedy? I enjoyed the characters in this novel and would follow them further into a series. The book is geared toward teen/young adult readers, so older adults may find some elements of the book a little overdone as the immature characters come to similar, almost repetitive teen-age realizations at times. I did become attached to the characters and enjoyed the book. I would recommend it to fans of young adult dystopian novels with engaging teen-leading characters.

 
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Meet the Author

Alexandra Gavranovic lives in Georgia where she is studying Public Relations. She has been writing and crafting stories since she was a young girl, and enjoys the process of being creative. When she’s not studying for her college classes, Alix enjoys spending time with her two cats and her dog, reading dystopian novels, and playing video games. She is also an avid pianist with 12 years of experience. Deception Is Our Remedy is her first published novel.

connect with the author: website instagram tiktok goodreads
 

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DECEPTION IS OUR REMEDY by Alexandra Gavranovic (a novel) Book Tour Giveaway

 




Monday, October 24, 2022

The Chai House Book Spotlight

This morning, I have a dystopian thriller to share!  Check out The Chai House, learn about author Priti Srivastava and be sure to enter for a chance to win a prize in the book tour giveaway at the end of this post.


 

​Book TitleTHE CHAI HOUSE by Priti Srivastava
Category:  Adult Fiction (18 +),  123 pages
Genre: Dystopian Thriller, Feminist Fiction, Horror
Publisher:  Independently Published
Release date:  December 8, 2020
Content Rating:  R: The story takes place under fascist rule. There are descriptions of war, violence, rape, and forced birth. ​

 

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About the Book


The Chai House is a haunting debut novel that explores the complexity of community when individuals are unaware of their own roles in upholding systems of oppression. Swati has spent her entire life trying to live up to her family’s expectations of her. She has learned it is easiest to just do what is asked of her, without resistance; a skill that has helped her survive in the early years of the Knights, an authoritarian regime. When her mother has a request for Swati, she agrees to it as it is the only way to help her young niece have some sort of future. An emotional page turner, The Chai House examines the desire to be true to yourself in a world where familial, cultural, societal, and political values direct you to stay small and stay silent.
 
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Meet the Author


Priti Srivastava lives in Madison, Wisconsin with their best friends. Priti works to create inclusive spaces as they hope that one day everyone will feel as though they belong. When Priti isn’t working or doing chores, they enjoy playing video games, making their friends laugh, eating samosas, and sitting quietly. They also love to read and on the rarest of occasions Priti writes about Priti in the third person. Priti loves to connect with readers. Follow them on social media to request a virtual visit with your book club.

connect with the author: twitter ~ instagram ~ goodreads


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