Editorial Reviews

The breakneck origin story of a cyber-charged vigilante, Neo-Spartans: New Year’s Resolution by Rory Simpson delivers a dark and electrified vision of the future in this first book of the Neo-Spartans series. At the end of the 23rd century, Nick Adams witnesses the brutal murder of his parents at the hands of the Black Death, a globally reviled terrorist regime, led by the enigmatic Thanatos. Embarking on the transformative path of a dark avenger, Nick must become more than human to protect the fragile fate of humanity. While there are familiar echoes of other vigilante superhero characters, and there are some extended sections of exposition that would benefit from the quick flow of a graphic novel, the detailed futuristic setting and inventive tech make this a fresh take on the crowded superhero genre, with a vividly imagined hero at the helm.

A historical thriller laced with Shakespearean twists, Castaway on the Isle of Devils by Elisabeth Carson-Williams is an exceptional tale of murder and madness at the unknown edge of the New World. After embarking on a life-changing journey to the Jamestowne colony, Alice and her parents find themselves storm-tossed onto a mysterious island with the surly and superstitious crew of the Sea Venture, the ship that inspired Shakespeare’s The Tempest. As rations dwindle and tempers flare, the vicious side of survival is revealed, and Alice must find courage and companionship within her hellish new reality. Meticulous storytelling, immersive historical detail, and a compelling young protagonist make this neatly penned novel a rare combination of page-turning and intellectually rich, skillfully crossing the boundaries of young adult and literary adventure fiction.

Outlining techniques and extolling the virtues of mindfulness for mental wellness, Brain Enhancement (BE) Mindful Therapy: Live Life with Great Possibilities by Oscar J. Harp III, Ph.D., M.S. is an essential personal intervention for navigating our troubled times. Along with a thorough presentation of common and lesser-known psychological disorders, this guide focuses on ways to reduce stress and bolster mental resilience through non-pharmaceutical methods. The author is responsible in his presentation of options, acknowledging the unique nature of every patient, and the need for a holistic approach to both mental and physical health, which varies per person. Authoritative and accessible, though occasionally dense in its academic detail, the author draws on decades of clinical experience for this well-researched and illuminating read.

A roughneck crew of battle-tested grease monkeys is drawn into a conspiracy way above their pay grade in The Wrecking Squad by Nick Snape, an explosive first installment of the Wrecking Squad series. Receiving a distress call from a damaged mining ship sounds like a potential payday for the nearly desperate crew of the Sunstar, but the high-tech attack that scuttled the invaluable vessel is highly suspicious. One mystery leads to another in this brilliantly creative mash-up, playing on a wide range of themes from both sci-fi and contemporary thrillers to deliver a gripping interstellar adventure. Though some of the prose feels rushed more than necessary, as the fast-paced story has the time to slow down, the well-designed plot, quickly immersive world-building, and memorable characters make this an impressive start to a new series.

Turning traditional fairy tales on their patriarchal heads, Darina: A Self-Rescuing Princess by Magda Nasadowska is an essential reminder of the importance of self-reliance. Princess Darina is frequently faced with challenges, and there always seems to be a suitor eager to solve her problem in exchange for her hand in marriage. However, Darina demonstrates to each prospective husband that she is a capable, clever, and compassionate leader. Ultimately finding joy in a marriage based on love, not on provision or protection, Darina is a marvelous role model for young girls, while the message of female empowerment also presents critical wisdom for growing boys. The lesson here is so important – and unfortunately rare – that it is something all children need to hear.