The Deading by Nicholas Belardes
A serene seaside town spirals into dystopian chaos after a mysterious ocean-borne contagion begins to infect its inhabitants who are collapsing, dying, and rising again, altered in mind and body. With the government isolating the town, the uninfected, including introverted bird-lover Blas and his brother Chango, must navigate a world overtaken by death-worshiping “Risers” and autocratic rituals. Haunting and lyrical, this story explores societal disintegration, the horrors of survival, and the solace found in nature and human connections that will resonate with fans of “The Last of Us.”
Bad River by Marc Cameron
U.S. Marshal Arliss Cutter embarks on a relentless search for answers about his brother’s mysterious death, taking him from the Arctic permafrost to the Badlands of South Dakota. When a frozen body is discovered in a basement, Cutter finds an unexpected link between this chilling find and his brother’s demise. Uncovering a trail of murder and madness leading to a remote lodge amidst the unforgiving wilderness, he confronts the dark truth of his brother’s death. Cameron masterfully captures the stark beauty and harsh brutality of both man and nature and the lengths a good man will go to in order to find justice for his family in a tale that viewers of “Reacher” won’t be able to put down.
Fall of the Iron Gods by Olivia Chadha
In this searing portrayal of the devastating future of climate change in South Asia a group of rebels styling themselves “The Red Hand” have dealt a hard blow to their autocratic government. This has placed them in greater danger as the Planetary Alliance Commission (PAC) brands them public enemy number. As the PAC’s greed endangers their homeland, the Red Hand fights to save their people from a government claiming to act for the greater planetary good. Followers of “The Acolyte” will be enthralled by this sci-fi tale of environmental decline, loyalty, and the need to rethink entrenched systems of power.
Nothing but the Truth by Robyn Gigl
Erin McCabe takes on the case of New Jersey State Trooper Jon Mazer, accused of the racially charged murder of Black investigative reporter Stewart Marshall. Despite overwhelming evidence against Mazer, he claims to be framed by the Lords of Discipline, a rogue gang within the State Police, because if his secret work as Marshall’s source inside the police department. Lovers of “Presumed Innocent” will inhale this twisted thriller that will have them guessing to the last second who is really guilty.
The Last Witch in Edinburgh by Marielle Thompson
In 1824 Edinburgh, Nellie Duncan finds solace and purpose at the Rae Women’s Apothecary, where she learns the art of witchcraft and discovers a burgeoning love with fiery Jean Rae. As they embrace their craft under the guidance of the winter deity, the Cailleach, Nellie and her fellow witches challenge patriarchal oppression. But when tragedy strikes, Nellie flees into hiding for two centuries. Now, she returns to confront ancient enemies and awaken others to the power of resistance and self-discovery, weaving a tale of resilience and reclaiming one’s magical strength against all odds. Those obsessed with “Interview with a Vampire” will completely fall for this atmospheric tale of queer love, the supernatural, and a journey through time.
Reprinted with permission from Kensington Books.
