(Dark Horse Series, #1)
Publication date: December 9th 2025
Genres: Adult, Dystopian, New Adult, Science Fiction
Kristen Zimmer, author of The Gravity Between Us, When Sparks Fly, and Forbidden Girl takes readers on an adrenaline-fueled dystopian journey into the future where a scrappy band of rebels rise up to bring down an unequal and unrelenting government.
This is your future.
The United States of America has been gone for over a century.
In its place, The Unified American Territories—a nation divided, the impoverished and the wealthy are separated by a looming steel wall. In the Northern Territories—The Vault, as it is known by its inhabitants—the government rules with an iron fist: All citizens are tested for intelligence and aptitude, thrust into compulsory higher education and saddled with insurmountable debt. All student loans are granted and controlled by a branch of the regime called The Federal Bureau of Education. Failure to repay their debt consigns borrowers to the Knowledge Reclamation Process, a mysterious government-sanctioned brainwashing program that strips them of their education with dire mental and physical side effects.
Fletcher Daniels is a recent college graduate struggling to stay ahead of her arrears. After a visit from Reclamation Agents, she knows her life is about to change for the worse. Enter Youth Opposed to Reclamation, a scrappy band of rebels who try in their own small way to bring some relief to the people of The Vault by smuggling as many potential Reclaimees to safety as possible. When Fletcher meets and falls for fellow female YOR member, Sparrow, her world is twisted away from the one she once knew even more radically. The group offers Fletcher a chance to escape her fate, but through them, she sees the promise of bringing real change to The Vault. History has taught her that even the smallest rebellions can trigger revolutions. It’s time for history to repeat itself.
FLETCHER HAD BEEN ENJOYING the luxury of her sole day off work, reading The Scarlet Letter. Happily. Quietly. Until some unknowable thing, a strange tug in her chest, made her look up. She shut down her antiquated digireader with a tap of the cracked screen and watched from her bedroom window as a sleek, silver sedan pulled to a stop at the curb outside of her dilapidated row house. Agents.
She couldn’t see them through the car’s blacked-out windows, but it was obvious. The simple fact that the vehicle had the shine of something new was enough to give the Agents away. Being from The Vault, or The Northern Territories, as Fletcher’s part of the country was known officially, she rarely saw any cars on the road at all; cars in such impeccable condition were all but complete anomalies. Why do they even bother plastering the Department of Reclamation’s seal on the doors? She wondered.
That hideous seal. Words failed to capture how much Fletcher both loathed and feared it. The great red and black per bend crest, showcasing a scroll of parchment in one half and a tasseled mortarboard in the other, had always been reviled by citizens of The Vault. It meant that someone hadn’t paid their dues, and The Department of Reclamation had come to collect.
The Department of Reclamation employed the Agents who did the strong-arming for The Federal Bureau of Education. While the BOE housed the bookkeepers, The Department of Reclamation’s Agents handled the unseemlier work… and their work was generally quite unseemly. The Governing Council of The Unified American Territories had long ago authorized Reclamation Agents to use brute force “in the event of necessity.” More often than not, visits from Agents did end in violence—if not on their first visit, when a potential Reclaimee received their Notification of Violation, then most definitely on their second visit, when the Agents returned to take the Reclaimee into custody. Reclaimees seldom initiated said violence, of course; Fletcher had heard that most cried or begged for just a few more moments with their loved ones. They would be flogged once or twice and give up or otherwise be knocked out with narcotics. Occasionally, a Reclaimee would try to escape. Those individuals had it much worse. Fletcher closed her eyes and, although it pained her to do it, allowed herself to envision the brutality Agents inflicted upon braver people: Arms twisted so violently that shoulders snapped out their sockets, fingers bent backward with such force that the metacarpals fractured, skulls cracked against living room floors. She shuddered as if her skin had been kissed by an icy wind.
Reclamation Agents were no strangers to The Vault, considering it was the part of the country reserved for the impoverished, the destitute and the disillusioned—those who needed “excessive assistance” from the Government. Those like Fletcher. She would need at least ten more fingers to be able to count the number of times she had seen Agents in her neighborhood in the last week alone. Watching these two men march toward her home, she couldn’t help but wonder if they had come for her this time.
“Fletcher,” her father’s voice boomed through the dimness of her room. “Can you come out here, please?”
“I’ll be right there.”
She peered into the tarnished mirror atop her bedside table. Using the remnants of daylight to aid her vision, she pulled her long blonde hair up into a ponytail. “Alright,” she sighed to herself, her sharp jawline clenching and her hazel eyes burning with angst. “If they are here for you, you’ll find out soon enough.”
.
About Author Kristen Zimmer:
Kristen Zimmer is the author of The Gravity Between Us, which spent 12 weeks as the number one best-seller in both the Lesbian Fiction and Lesbian Romance genres on Amazon. It was listed as one of USA Today’s “10 Best books to read for Pride 2018” and in December 2021 was named one of Reader’s Digest ’50 Best Romance Novels of All Time’
That same year, her follow-up novel, When Sparks Fly, debuted as the best-seller in Lesbian Fiction and Lesbian romance, and clung to the spot for four weeks.
Her latest novel, Forbidden Girl, a dark mafia sapphic romance, is available now.
Kristen lives in Salem, Massachusetts— yes, where the witches were.
Category: Middle-Grade Fiction & Juvenile Fiction (10 to 15 yrs old), 198 pages Genre: Adventure, dystopian, suspense Publisher: FriesenPress Release date: January 2025 Content Rating: PG. I would have chosen G because there is no swearing or graphic scenes; however, based on the definitions given by ireads, the two teenage characters do kiss
.
Book Description:
In the wilderness of Nova Scotia, Charlotte and Anna confront the formidable challenges of survival such as finding food, building a shelter, and establishing a new life. Their bond is tested, however, when an unknown individual enters the scene, potentially driving a wedge between them. As tensions rise, a catastrophic event further complicates their situation, leading to a separation that leaves them struggling to reunite.
Book Two of The After Series explores themes of resilience, friendship, and the harsh realities of survival, highlighting both the strength of Charlotte and Anna’s connection and the obstacles that threaten to tear them apart.
Category: Middle-Grade Fiction & Juvenile Fiction (10 to 15 yrs old), 198 pages Genre: Adventure, dystopian, suspense Publisher: FriesenPress Release date: July 2025 Content Rating: PG. I would have chosen G because there is no swearing or graphic scenes; however, based on the definitions given by ireads, the two teenage characters do kiss
.
Book Description:
With no central government to support Canada, chaos reigns as invaders seek control, and the Resistance rises to challenge them. Charlotte and Anna find themselves entangled with those protecting their country, desperate to prevent the intruders from seizing power and dismantling what remains of their nation.
Fleeing through unfamiliar territory, Charlotte and Anna’s resolve is tested as they evade relentless pursuers determined to capture or eliminate them. Although hopeful they can make a difference, every step forward is fraught with uncertainty, the looming threat of captivity pushing them to their limits.
Despite fear and exhaustion, the determination to protect Canada’s future keeps the girls moving, even as the shadows of war close in around them.
It’s such great fun when you find a series and it keeps getting better book by book. How does that happen? Maybe it’s your attachment to the characters. Maybe it’s what events are focused on. Or, perhaps it because you begin to grasp the author’s vision. Begin to see where she’s taking you. Or, maybe something else entirely. Regardless, The After series is one of those that gets better and better.
The After, the first book, was the introduction to a dystopian way of life. Then the characters start to take hold of you. That’s where the anxiety sets in. Will things get worse? They do. How will two young teenage girls manage to survive? Can’t tell you that. The spoiler thing. But you’ll be wanting to reach the end and find out. Then you’ll be wanting more. Relax. The second book, Survival continues the series.
And then theirs the third book, Invasion. I think it’s the most intense in the series. Things get harder, darker, more serious. But the characters shine light through all that. Sometimes hope builds. Faith in humanity rises. I love character driven stories and these characters will stay with me.
5 STARS
.
.
Interview With Author J. Taylor
.
1) There are many books out there written for teenagers and featuring teenagers. What makes yours different?
As a teacher, I often struggled to find clean adventure reads (for 10-14 year olds) featuring strong female protagonists. Don’t get me wrong, Hatchet and Percy Jackson are fantastic reads, but I wanted an adventure series centered on two teenage girls who problem-solve—embrace adventure, show compassion while remaining strong, balance humour with seriousness, take risks, and ultimately act heroically. Those types of series are hard to find.
I also believe the Canadian setting is one of the elements that truly sets my series apart from many others.
2) If you were a character in your series, who would you be?
Ha, ha! I love this question. No doubt about it, I would definitely be Anna. I’m an action oriented problem solver who speaks her mind (sometimes without thinking—my husband would say) and jumps in feet first!
3) Do you have another profession besides writing?
Yes, I’m a teacher. I entered the profession excited about teaching and after 30+ years I still love what I do! Not many people can say that about their career!
4) What is the last great book you’ve read?
I am obsessed with my latest read:
What She Said
by Elizabeth Renzetti
(Conversations About Equality).
A snippet from the book:
“The fight for women’s rights was supposed to have been settled. Or, to put it another way, women were supposed to have settled—for what we were grudgingly given, for the crumbs from the table that we had set. For thirty per cent of the seats in Canada’s Parliament; for five per cent of the CEO’s offices; for a tenth of the salary of male athletes; for the tiny per cent of sexual assault cases that result in convictions; for tenuous control over our health and bodies. “Aren’t we over it yet? No, we’re not,” Elizabeth Renzetti writes.”
5) If you’re a mom writer, how do you balance your time?
Although my five children are now adults, my youngest has Prader-Willi Syndrome, lives at home and requires 1:1 support 24/7, so my writing is often in fits and starts. It does make it a bit tricky when I have an idea or feel the urge to write, so I keep a notepad in the kitchen to scribble down ideas when I can’t get to my computer.
.
.
Meet Author J. Taylor:
J. Taylor leads a fulfilling life balancing her roles as a mother, teacher and author. Creating memorable experiences for her family and loved ones brings her joy. Large family dinners filled with lively conversation and great food are a cherished tradition. These aspects of her life contribute to her personal fulfillment as well as inspire her writing and the themes of connection and family in her stories.
Taylor’s upbringing in Nova Scotia notably influences her storytelling, as she incorporates elements of the region’s culture and environment into her narratives. This background enriches her characters and the overall themes of her stories, making them relatable and inspiring.
Category: Middle-Grade Fiction & Juvenile Fiction (10 to 15 yrs old), 198 pages Genre: Adventure, dystopian, suspense Publisher: FriesenPress Release date: January 2025 Content Rating: PG. I would have chosen G because there is no swearing or graphic scenes; however, based on the definitions given by ireads, the two teenage characters do kiss
.
Book Description:
In the wilderness of Nova Scotia, Charlotte and Anna confront the formidable challenges of survival such as finding food, building a shelter, and establishing a new life. Their bond is tested, however, when an unknown individual enters the scene, potentially driving a wedge between them. As tensions rise, a catastrophic event further complicates their situation, leading to a separation that leaves them struggling to reunite.
Book Two of The After Series explores themes of resilience, friendship, and the harsh realities of survival, highlighting both the strength of Charlotte and Anna’s connection and the obstacles that threaten to tear them apart.
I really enjoyed After, the first book in this series. I had fingers and toes crossed that I’d enjoy the second book too. I did. Actually, I enjoyed it even more. Especially the continued friendship between Charlotte and Anna. The two young teens were there for each other when the pandemic swept across the globe. Now they’re back.
Charlotte and Anna are homeless now so they search for a new place to live. They find one, but soon have to leave it too. Times just keep getting tougher for the girls. But, they’re getting tougher too. Every day is a new test. For Shelter. For food. For their very lives.
This series is a story of two young girls trying to survive a pandemic. To me, it’s also an extreme test of courage and compassion. Whether your a young teen or an adult, this story will make you feel all the feels. I’m excited to read the next book, Invasion. The title alone makes me think the two brave girls will be put to the ultimate test of survival. I hope they come through it and can’t wait to find out.
5 STARS
.
.
Next in This Continuing Series:
.
Book Details:
THE INVASION (Book Three The After series)
byJ. Taylor
Category: Middle-Grade Fiction & Juvenile Fiction (10 to 15 yrs old), 198 pages Genre: Adventure, dystopian, suspense Publisher: FriesenPress Release date: July 2025 Content Rating: PG. I would have chosen G because there is no swearing or graphic scenes; however, based on the definitions given by ireads, the two teenage characters do kiss
.
Book Description:
With no central government to support Canada, chaos reigns as invaders seek control, and the Resistance rises to challenge them. Charlotte and Anna find themselves entangled with those protecting their country, desperate to prevent the intruders from seizing power and dismantling what remains of their nation.
Fleeing through unfamiliar territory, Charlotte and Anna’s resolve is tested as they evade relentless pursuers determined to capture or eliminate them. Although hopeful they can make a difference, every step forward is fraught with uncertainty, the looming threat of captivity pushing them to their limits.
Despite fear and exhaustion, the determination to protect Canada’s future keeps the girls moving, even as the shadows of war close in around them.
1) There are many books out there written for teenagers and featuring teenagers. What makes yours different?
As a teacher, I often struggled to find clean adventure reads (for 10-14 year olds) featuring strong female protagonists. Don’t get me wrong, Hatchet and Percy Jackson are fantastic reads, but I wanted an adventure series centered on two teenage girls who problem-solve—embrace adventure, show compassion while remaining strong, balance humour with seriousness, take risks, and ultimately act heroically. Those types of series are hard to find.
I also believe the Canadian setting is one of the elements that truly sets my series apart from many others.
2) If you were a character in your series, who would you be?
Ha, ha! I love this question. No doubt about it, I would definitely be Anna. I’m an action oriented problem solver who speaks her mind (sometimes without thinking—my husband would say) and jumps in feet first!
3) Do you have another profession besides writing?
Yes, I’m a teacher. I entered the profession excited about teaching and after 30+ years I still love what I do! Not many people can say that about their career!
4) What is the last great book you’ve read?
I am obsessed with my latest read:
What She Said
by Elizabeth Renzetti
(Conversations About Equality).
A snippet from the book:
“The fight for women’s rights was supposed to have been settled. Or, to put it another way, women were supposed to have settled—for what we were grudgingly given, for the crumbs from the table that we had set. For thirty per cent of the seats in Canada’s Parliament; for five per cent of the CEO’s offices; for a tenth of the salary of male athletes; for the tiny per cent of sexual assault cases that result in convictions; for tenuous control over our health and bodies. “Aren’t we over it yet? No, we’re not,” Elizabeth Renzetti writes.”
5) If you’re a mom writer, how do you balance your time?
Although my five children are now adults, my youngest has Prader-Willi Syndrome, lives at home and requires 1:1 support 24/7, so my writing is often in fits and starts. It does make it a bit tricky when I have an idea or feel the urge to write, so I keep a notepad in the kitchen to scribble down ideas when I can’t get to my computer.
.
.
Meet Author J. Taylor:
J. Taylor leads a fulfilling life balancing her roles as a mother, teacher and author. Creating memorable experiences for her family and loved ones brings her joy. Large family dinners filled with lively conversation and great food are a cherished tradition. These aspects of her life contribute to her personal fulfillment as well as inspire her writing and the themes of connection and family in her stories.
Taylor’s upbringing in Nova Scotia notably influences her storytelling, as she incorporates elements of the region’s culture and environment into her narratives. This background enriches her characters and the overall themes of her stories, making them relatable and inspiring.
Dangerous games. Kill or be killed. Can she
survive a king’s ruthless arena?
Clarissa craves an escape. An orphan forced
into criminal acts with other kids by their caretaker, she longs to break free
and become a healer. But when an archenemy provokes a deadly confrontation, the
seventeen-year-old awakens hidden powers in an explosive and fiery defense.
Seized by soldiers and taken to the capital
along with her only friend, Clarissa trains alongside other slaves to fight in
the royal army. But surrounded by mysterious strangers and running low on
trust, the desperate captive fears graduation day will be her last.
Is Clarissa destined to die in chains?
Rising Ember
is the thrilling first book in the Forbidden Chronicles YA dystopian fantasy
series. If you like strong-willed heroines, nail-biting drama, and clean
slow-burn romance, then you’ll love Sara Wright’s action-packed adventure.
Buy Rising Ember to ignite destiny
today!
**Get signed
& special editions with maps, bookmarks & sprayed edges at Sara’s Store!**
From a Headache to a Dystopian Universe: The Surprising Origins of Rising Ember
Discover how a single sentence from my husband during a migraine spiraled into a clean dystopian fantasy series full of elemental powers, rebellion, and love.
One day I had a massive headache. The world was on pause while I lay there with my eyes closed until the meds kicked in. My lovely husband held me in his arms and caressed my hair. The problem was I was wide awake and needed to get a million things done. So, I did what any storyteller or bookworm would do—I asked him to tell me a story. And he did.
This is what he came up with:
“There was a world with people, and they have fire eyes. They wield fire. Like they can turn it on and off like a switch.”
That was it, the entire story. It only took that to get me piecing everything together in my head. Soon I had a short story rough draft written in the world (read Altered Rain). To get inside the characters’ heads, I would listen to a particular song (“Lacrymosa” by Evanescence, if you’re curious). This ultimately inspired me to pen a novella, offering a peek into a world overtaken by the primary antagonist (read Ruined Ashes). That one line led to a short story, a novella, and a full six-book series.
At first, I didn’t know if the stories were pure fantasy or pure dystopian. Some scenes that played in my mind leaned very fantasy with horses and medieval style weaponry. But then one day, a scene of the protagonist heading to the upper levels on a lift formed, and I saw the realm more clearly.
This world was set within the ruins of the past. While they have futuristic technology, it doesn’t work everywhere. Sometimes using a horse or an old-world weapon is necessary. Your access to technology is determined by your societal status.
It kind of reminded me of The Shannara Chronicles, a post-apocalyptic world with elves, dwarfs, and other fantasy creatures. Except, instead of elves and dwarves, humans developed elemental powers. Rising Ember is a blend of the old with the new, which is something I really love to explore in all my books. An urban setting with hovercars and force fields, but also rural communities that feel more old-world fantasy.
While I love to write what I want to read, I knew that wasn’t enough to publish this book. I needed to meet the reader’s expectations, too. At this point, I wasn’t sure what genre I was going to steer the story toward. So, I dived into the top young adult dystopian and fantasy books, both traditional and indie published to find out what readers wanted within these two similar yet distinct genres. It was a bummer reading all those books (just kidding).
You can’t really read through the YA dystopian genre without considering one of the most popular books in our modern era—The Hunger Games. One thing I love most about this franchise is how many layersSuzanne Collins weaves into the narrative. From the simple act of Katniss feeling uncomfortable in her clothes, to the cinnamon roll love interest, Peeta, there are so many interesting arcs and tropes throughout the story.
But I believe the most iconic part of the books is the arena. While I included this aspect in the story, there were other influences that altered how I presented it. A little American Ninja Warrior anyone? Maybe combined with your worst nightmares?
But what about the fantasy aspects I wanted to include? How could I incorporate fire wielders in the middle of a dystopian world?
Well, I found several books that incorporated some type of superpowers—one being Red Queen. The thing I loved about this series is that Mare isn’t entirely ignorant of the world the way Katniss was. Mare became a pawn, but she knew it and immediately fought back. But maybe the aspect I admired most was Cal’s fire and the betrayal twists throughout the narrative. The bond between the two main characters was also electrifying (pun intended).
Then I came across two interesting indie series by the same author—Recruitment and The Crue Chronicles. Storylines occur in the same world, and superpowers come into play. While they’re a little more tech manipulation than in my story, the power struggles between the elite and those emerging into the world ignite the right kind of rebellion that I am trying to balance in my story.
I read Shadow and Bone—a fantasy set in a broken czar styled world with characters who could manipulate powers. And the blend of old-world and new-world technology was fascinating to me. The interplay of darkness and light, along with the chosen one trope, really had me hooked.
The only thing I really wasn’t fond of was the heat levels of the romances in Red Queen. Because my romance writing style is a lot more like The Selection or The Princess Trials (without the 30 something girls competing to win over the guy). I’d rather see the intensity of the main characters holding hands for the first time. Or finally confessing their feelings in the middle of a battle rather than having a fade-to-black scene.
When I came up for air, I realized I wasn’t writing pure fantasy or pure dystopian—I was writing dystopian fantasy. Which is perfect for me because I love to blend sci-fi and fantasy elements.
From these inspirations, I created a futuristic kingdom discriminating against and imprisoning fire wielding humans—descendants of an ancient accident—because they are viewed as “other”. Since it’s a long-standing real-world problem, its inclusion in the story felt organic. The protagonist’s orphan status, a result of past genocide, is consistent with the dystopian setting.
Pure sci-fi element stories aren’t really my thing. You see, I’ve always been drawn to blending sci-fi and fantasy where futuristic tech and elemental powers coexist. One of my readers said that she was a fantasy reader that fancied herself a sci-fi queen. And that’s something I hear from a lot of fantasy readers. They’ll watch sci-fi, but they won’t read it.
Maybe it’s because I grew up on Disney princess movies and Star Trek. Maybe it’s because I was obsessed with Lord of the Rings but also devoured TheHandmaid’s Tale. My obsession with combing sci-fi and fantasy with romance subplots has firmly taken root in my stories. Elements from all my favorite stories usually weave their way into my worlds—especially the beautiful dresses for those swoony dance scenes.
I say all of this because the inspiration of a story can be complicatedly woven with a multitude of decisions. I suppose everything from an author’s life makes its way into a book they create. Even though it started with a single sentence from my husband mentioned while having a headache, it was a lifetime of reading, writing, and dreaming that brought Rising Ember, the first book in the Forbidden Chronicles universe, to life.
Want to explore this world of clean, romantic sci-fi fairytales? The spark of this alliance starts right here.
Sara Wright is
the author of The Progenitor Chronicles and Forbidden Chronicles,
a YA dystopian fantasy series packed with rebellion, elemental powers, and
clean slow-burn romance.
She currently
lives on Earth, her favorite vacation planet, with her husband and their very
opinionated fur baby. But most days, she’s off exploring shattered kingdoms,
star-spanning civilizations, and the occasional multiverse with her lifelong
companions: Imagination and Creativity.
Raised on bedtime
stories and fueled by a steady diet of fantasy, sci-fi, and a sweet topping of
romance, Sara now writes tales for readers who crave action, heart, and hope.
When she’s not writing, you’ll find her cycling, hiking, or singing dramatically
to songs she swears are soundtracks to her books.
Publication date: May 15th 2025
Genres: Adult, Dystopian, Thriller
America’s cultural divide turns deadly.
When lifelong friends Olivia and Alexandra find themselves in opposing camps, the bonds of their friendship are tested like never before.
Olivia seeks solace in a socialist utopia that promises protection and belonging, but at what cost?
Meanwhile, Alexandra chases freedom. But can she survive in a community with few, if any, rules?
As their worlds collide and tensions escalate, secrets and lies threaten to destroy the foundation of their relationship.
Can they bridge the gap between them, or will their differences tear them apart forever?
In this gripping tale of loyalty, adventure, and human connection, the stakes are higher than ever. Protopia is a thought-provoking thrill ride that explores the power of friendship in a world on the brink.
If you devour the complex characters of Emily St. John Mandel or the visionary world-building of Octavia Butler, you’ll be captivated by this latest masterpiece by the author of the Amazon best-seller The Awakening of Artemis.
As she gazed out at the ravaged landscape, Olivia Fletcher felt the weight of her exhaustion like a physical force dragging her down into the dusty earth. Five years of constant strife—of strategizing and problem-solving, of rising and failing—had all taken its toll. She longed for a life of quiet contemplation, of peaceful days spent in a garden or a library, free from the constant din of conflict. But that life seemed as distant as a dream. The struggle between Cygnus and Elyria showed no signs of abating, and Olivia’s skills as a mediator and leader were still desperately needed. She felt like a worn-out tool, perpetually called upon to fix the unfixable, to bridge the unbridgeable gaps between sworn enemies.
And yet, despite her fatigue, Olivia couldn’t shake the feeling of inadequacy that had haunted her for so long. Was she truly making a difference, or was she just a band-aid on a bullet wound? Did she have the strength and wisdom to bring peace to this shattered world, or was she just a fraud waiting to be exposed? The doubts swirled in her mind like a toxic fog, threatening to consume her at any moment.
As the war drums beat louder, Olivia knew she couldn’t afford to indulge in her uncertainty. She took a deep breath, squared her shoulders, and stepped forward into the fray once more. But the questions lingered, echoing in her mind like a whispered mantra: What if I’m not enough? What if I fail? What if…?
/
About Author John Calia:
A Brooklyn-born, recovering businessman, John Calia has been a naval officer, banker, entrepreneur and consultant. He began writing his blog “Who Will Lead?” in 2010 attracting more than 115,000 readers. The five-star rating of his first book – a business fable titled “The Reluctant CEO: Succeeding Without Losing Your Soul” – inspired him to keep writing. His fascination with artificial intelligence and its impact on society inspired him to write “The Awakening of Artemis.”
Red Sun Rising by Allen Lyle Category: Adult Fiction (18 +), 422 pages Genre: Fantasy, Sci-fi, Dystopian Fiction Publisher: Moon Publishing Company Publication Date: July, 2025. Content Rating: This book is rated PG 13 for graphic violence and battle scenes.
Book Description:
Red Sun Rising – Book One of the Red Sun Rising Series
Power is not inherited. It is taken—by blood, by fire, by force.
The Empire is rotting from within. Corruption festers in its courts, rebellions simmer at its borders, and old gods whisper in the shadows. Amid the chaos, one family sees opportunity.
House de Bordeaux has long stood on the fringes of power—noble in name, forgotten in legacy. But when a mysterious death fractures the imperial line, a brutal new game begins. As alliances crumble and enemies multiply, the de Bordeaux heirs must decide what they’re willing to sacrifice in their pursuit of the throne—and what darkness they’ll awaken along the way.
From the first clash of voltedge swords to the final echo of betrayal, Red Sun Rising is a gripping tale of ambition, treachery, and the high cost of empire.
The first installment in a sweeping epic fantasy series, perfect for fans of political intrigue, morally complex characters, and dynastic power struggles.
. On July 28th, Red Sun Rising will be available on B&N, BAM!, and any place you can buy books
.
Meet the Author Allen Lyle:
Allen Lyle lives in Athens, Georgia, (GO DAWGS!) where he shares his home with his wife, four cats, a sweet pup, and several hundred books. A lifelong devotee of science fiction and fantasy, he fell under their spell at a young age and never looked back. Allen considers himself a lifelong devotee of science fiction and fantasy, He has always been drawn to the intersection of history and the speculative—asking questions like, “What if the Byzantine Empire had rockets?” or “What if Tolkien’s world had pirates?”
An avid gamer, Allen has spent countless hours orchestrating dynastic dramas in Crusader Kings III, an inspiration for his debut novel. His fascination with history extends beyond pixels and pages—he’s an enthusiastic collector of antiques, a lover of travel, and a devoted fan of minor league baseball. When he’s not writing, Allen can be found painting miniatures or reading. His debut novel takes readers thousands of years into a post-apocalyptic future where the kings and queens of Europe—now called Yuropa—rule once more. It’s sure to hit the sweet spot for fantasy, scifi, and history lovers alike…just like Allen.
In a world ravaged by ideological war, can two lifelong friends, torn apart, find
their way back to each other, or will conflicting visions of a perfect society
destroy their relationship or, worse yet, prove fatal?
Olivia and Alexandra, inseparable since
childhood, stumble into the brutal conflict between Cygnus, a bastion of
ultra-libertarian ideals, and Elyria, a socialist commune that promises
equality and justice. As tensions escalate, the women are forced to make a
choice: which community to join.
Olivia, haunted by anxiety and self-doubt, is
drawn to the promise of security and equality in Elyria. Alexandra, ever the
adventurer, chooses the independence and freedom of Cygnus. As they settle into
their respective communities, Olivia and Alexandra encounter rigid ideologies
and corruption at the highest levels of government. They challenge the leaders
of their respective communities and realize their lives are under threat.
Olivia must confront her own demons and the
limitations they’ve imposed on her life. Growing in confidence and
self-awareness, she starts to envision a different future—one that balances
individual freedom with collective well-being. As the conflict between Cygnus
and Elyria reaches a boiling point, Olivia and Alexandra must navigate the
treacherous landscape of their own divided loyalties. Can they turn the
obstacles into opportunities, or will the divide between them prove
insurmountable—even deadly?
Protopia
is a heart-pumping, thought-provoking tale of politics, adventure, and loyalty
set in a dystopian world that eerily echoes our own.
Fans of Emily St. John Mandel and Matt Haig
will love this new adventure from the author of Parallel Lies and the
best-seller The Awakening of Artemis.
.John Calia is a multifaceted
author, born in Brooklyn and formerly a naval officer, banker, entrepreneur,
and consultant. His debut business fable, The Reluctant CEO: Succeeding Without
Losing Your Soul, earned a five-star rating and sparked a passion for writing.
Calia’s fascination with artificial intelligence and its societal implications
led him to craft The Awakening of Artemis, a near-future speculative fiction
novel that soared to #6 on the Amazon Science Fiction Adventure bestseller
list. His latest release, Parallel Lies (2023), is the highly anticipated
sequel to his bestseller.
Welcome to the tour for Covalence, the first book in a new YA Dystopian series by Andie L. Smith! Fans of Divergent, The Giver, and The Uglies will love this one!
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Covalence (The Bonded Series #1)
Publication Date: October 2024
Genre YA Dystopian
Enemies to lovers
Forced proximity
Forbidden romance
He fell first
Ensemble cast
Girls in STEM
Strong FMC
Seventeen-year-old Mineral Vyotto always planned on running away from the City and its annual Covalence Ceremony-a tradition forcing her to Bond with another of her Kind. In a hidden cavern outside the City gates, she starts collecting parts and Building a plane so she can bolt before the Ceremony takes place.
But when Covalence is moved up and she’s almost caught by the Officials, Mineral finds herself and her fate at the hands of Amory Thames-an arrogant, opinionated Orderly with powerful parents who could ruin her chance at freedom. With only four weeks to escape the City before the Ceremony, Mineral and Amory must work together to find a way out-even if it means keeping Society’s biggest secret to themselves and putting the lives of everyone they love at risk.
Bound by blood, Marked by
rebellion, Destined for a love that could save or destroy
them.
A forbidden
bond. A crumbling city. A choice that could change everything.
Serenity
Becoming an Elite—a blood donor for the Vampyr—was never part of the plan. But
with my family’s lives on the line, I had no choice but to step out of hiding
and into a world I barely understand. My rare blood has made me a target, and
now, I’m bound to Kane—the ruthless, untouchable head of the Vampyr Council.
The rebels want to use me. My family depends on me. And Kane… he’s the only one
who can keep me alive—but trusting him? That might be the most dangerous gamble
of all.
Kane
I never wanted an Elite. I certainly didn’t need one—especially not Serenity.
She’s everything I’ve avoided: human, stubborn, and a complication I can’t
afford. But from the moment I met her, she turned my world upside down.
Her blood sustains me, but it’s her spirit that leaves me hungry for more. As
rebellion threatens to tear the city apart, my focus should be on holding
everything together—not on the one woman who’s become my greatest weakness.
She’s more than just a distraction. She’s a risk. One I shouldn’t take.
But I can’t let her go. And if I’m not careful, she might destroy me—or save us
all.
In a world
where blood is currency and love is forbidden, Bound is a
spellbinding tale of passion, betrayal, and a bond that could shatter a city—or
bring it to its knees.
Fans of
dstopyian fantasy, forbidden romance, and slow-burn tension will devour Bound,
the first book in The Elite Series.
Every person, regardless of age or hatred for their kind, yearned to be selected. Deep down, they craved the privileges of being an Elite—the ones who willingly offered themselves to the vampyrs. But not her.
Serenity had no such desires; she refused to be a meal for anyone, no matter how tempting the rewards seemed. Yet, her personal feelings were irrelevant now. This program was her last hope, and if it didn’t work, she dreaded turning to Jax for help—something she desperately wanted to avoid.
Looking up at the clock, its hands slowly ticked as she waited for the nurse to arrive and begin the process that would, hopefully, improve her and her family’s lives.
Sighing deeply to calm her rising nerves, Serenity’s eyes wandered around the office, taking in the sterile and impersonal atmosphere. Four white walls encased a stark, bare office containing only the essentials: a simple desk, a utilitarian chair, a computer, a printer, and a cold, metal filing cabinet. There were no pictures or decorations. It was as if they intentionally designed it to be unwelcoming, discouraging any sense of comfort or happiness.
Honestly, it didn’t make any sense. One would think they would try to create a more inviting space to welcome potential Elites. The environment’s lack of warmth and care showed her what she was truly signing up for and how she’d be treated as soon as her application was approved.
And they would approve it. She did not doubt that.
Serenity had the type of blood that the vampyr wanted… and craved. At least, that was what her father told her. Only those with the rarest of blood types were selected as Elites.
Anyone whose blood type was A or B was automatically entered into the system as a donor, regardless of whether they were positive or negative. O positives were rarely chosen, and O negatives had better chances only if specifically requested. AB positives, the rarest of the rare type, were treated like gold and were consistently selected as Elites, typically matched with the wealthiest of the vampyrs. This made Serenity think despite their claims, money still talked within their society. AB negatives were a myth, according to the locals. Still, they were believed to represent a divine gift in vampiric lore, ‘ambrosia,’ so treasured that only the upper echelons in vampyr society knew of their existence.
As an AB negative, her blood was revered as the most delectable drink. She almost felt violated knowing that such an intimate part of her was seen as a commodity, something to be consumed with primal delight. It wasn’t just about her, though.
The Elite program was supposed to bring balance and peace between the two races, a part of the treaty the humans and vampyrs signed before she was born. But it seemed the vampyrs ruled their lives, despite humans sitting on the city’s governing Council. All the rules seemed to cater to the vampyrs survival, not humanity’s. It was infuriating.
When the office door opened, Serenity turned in her chair to see a petite woman in black scrubs walking through. The woman had caramel-colored skin and dark eyes. A laminated card clipped to her shirt read “Shelia” in bold capital letters.
“Can I have your name, please?” the nurse asked, sitting on the other side of the desk and placing a clipboard with an application next to the computer.
Such a simple question, but for Serenity, it was surrendering to the inevitable. Call it an innate feeling, but she had always known she would end up here signing up to be an Elite.
She couldn’t explain how, but a small part of her, deep inside, suspected it had to do with the rarity of her blood type. As if it had always known this would be her fate. But it was only a feeling and possibly the wariness of her situation.
Either way, she was here now. Taking a deep breath, she reluctantly spoke her name aloud. “Serenity.”
The words felt like a prison sentence once they left her mouth. Every inch of her screamed for her to get up and run away. They only had her first name. There was still the possibility of escape. She could get on the bus and go back home, where it was safe.
But she couldn’t. Not if she wanted to save her family. This was her choice, her sacrifice.
Her mother couldn’t become an Elite because of her sickness, and her sister was too young and sick, so it had to be her. They needed medicine, and this was the only way they could afford it.
Shelia’s kind smile and soothing voice washed over her, easing the tension in her shoulders. “What is your full name, honey? You don’t have to be nervous. You may not even get approved. This is just the application stage,” she assured her.
She was right; this was just the application process. She hadn’t even given a blood sample yet.
If Serenity was being honest with herself, she couldn’t deny the fear that gripped her. The thought of encountering a vampyr had always terrified her. She had hoped never to face one, but now, everything was about to change. She was preparing to leave behind everything she knew.
But she pushed those thoughts aside for the moment. She needed to focus on getting through this, or else her instincts would take over, and she would flee. Steeling herself with a deep breath, she forced the words out. “Serenity R. Wright.”
Shelia punched her name into the machine, attempting to assess her medical history. Her father had burned and erased every document that could identify her blood type a long time ago, insisting it was to keep her safe from them.
As Shelia stared intently at the screen, Serenity knew she was seeing the bare minimum of information. Her father had been thorough in keeping her out of the system. She had been homeschooled, never left the human districts, and always kept a low profile.
The scent of her mother’s homemade herbal concoction lingered on every piece of clothing she wore. The blend of lemon tea tree oil, activated charcoal, rosemary, and vanilla was meant to hide her natural scent.
Since she was young, she’d relied on it to cover up her unique scent. Her mother would create soap and shampoo for her to use and a specialized spray for when she ventured out into public. She always carried a small bottle of vinegar with her, a precaution in case she encountered any vampyrs.
She also wore a light brown cloak whenever she went out. But her mother believed her father’s true intentions were to hide her curly hair and honey-brown eyes, fearing they would attract unwanted attention. She never left without her cloak whenever she traveled, especially outside their district.
Except for today. She felt vulnerable without it but wouldn’t need it after this.
Shelia glanced up from the computer with curiosity evident in her eyes. “The only record we have of you in the system is your birth date. Have you never had a physical?”
It didn’t surprise Serenity that the woman was curious. If she were in her shoes, she would feel the same way. Her answer was simple: “My father was a doctor. He handled all my physicals and medical records.”
The memory of her father hung heavy in the air. He had been training her to be a nurse to help her mother and sister with their medical needs. But his life was cut short by a sudden heart attack during one of his routine trips into the city for more medicine.
With his absence, Serenity felt a part of herself missing; however, her family relied on her strength.
“He didn’t update your records.” Shelia glanced back at the screen and asked, “What was his name?”
“Dr. Richard J. Wright.” She wouldn’t find him in the system. He never officially returned to practicing as a doctor after the war. He only worked as an informal doctor for their neighbors and friends.
The nurse’s brows scrunched in concentration as she surveyed her computer screen. “I can’t find him in the system, and your records have not been updated. We’ll need to do a physical today and draw blood to get your blood type for your application. Let me see if we can squeeze you in with Dr. Bradford.”
Serenity anticipated this; she had mentally prepared for this precise moment. But even with all her preparation, she couldn’t shake the waves of anxiety that threatened to engulf her. Soon, they would know her secret, and she would be in danger. But her family would be saved, reaping the benefits of her becoming an Elite.
She despised the crushing weight of her family’s future on her shoulders; the pressure was almost suffocating. Her palms were slick with sweat, and her chest tightened as she struggled to hold back a sob.
Needing to gather herself, she inhaled deeply and closed her eyes, seeking respite from the tension. Her mind raced with conflicting thoughts, and she was torn between the responsibility she bore and the fear of what lay ahead.
It was a delicate balancing act; her determination to be strong for her family clashing with the nagging doubt and uncertainty gnawing at her resolve. She knew she had to be here, but that didn’t make it any easier. The emotional turmoil within her was like a storm raging beneath a calm exterior.
With a quiet yet determined resolve, Serenity opened her eyes, squared her shoulders, and braced herself for whatever lay beyond those cold, impersonal walls. She couldn’t let anxiety derail her; her family depended on her strength.
“Don’t worry, honey.” The sympathy in Shelia’s eyes didn’t help her worry. “The physical exam is painless, and the blood drawing is quick and painless.”
But it wasn’t the exam that made Serenity anxious. She was uncertain what would happen once her application was submitted, and there was no turning back.
Shelia typed a few more notes on her computer.
“Alright. I was able to squeeze you with Dr. Bradford. She is wonderful. This way.”
Shelia stood, grabbing a piece of paper from the printer before moving towards the door. Serenity stood to follow when suddenly Shelia stopped and turned back to her.
“Are you sure you want to do this?” Shelia asked with a seriousness that almost made Serenity want to run. “Once we walk out the door, there is no turning back. Your name will be filed into the system forever.”
Even if she wasn’t approved by some chance of fate, her name would still be recorded in their databases, making her a potential target in a future blood drought—which meant that if they ever ran out of human recruits, they could call upon her. It was one of the risks she took by even walking into the clinic, but it was her only choice.
“I understand your concern, and thank you for it, but I have to do this.”
Shelia nodded slightly and opened the door. Her eyes, wide with uncertainty, met Serenity’s briefly before she led them into the hallway, closing the door behind them.
Serenity was happy to know that at least one of the nurses here cared about the humans who signed up and ensured this was their choice. This gave her some hope that this whole process wouldn’t be as dreadful as she thought.
Taking a deep breath, she steeled herself and followed Shelia into the hallway, heart pounding as she contemplated what lay ahead.
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Charley Black is
an up-and-coming writer and author who has been creating stories since she was
twelve years old. Her early short stories dabbled in different genres, but her
passion for romance novels — paranormal romance in particular — always shone through.
Charley currently resides in Rhode Island, with her family and works at a local
university.
Category: Middle-Grade Fiction & YA Fiction (10 to 15 yrs old), 183 pages Genre: Fictional Dystopian Publisher: FriesenPress Release date: October 2024 Content Rating: G. 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
Book Description:
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.
Being a fan of the dystopian genre I was excited to read one written for middle age readers. I was curious if the character dynamics would be as intriguing, and they were.
Charlotte is 14 years old and lives with her family on their farm in Nova Scotia. The virus that collapsed society ten years ago and caused her isolation from others is all she remembers. Her quiet existence changes when she meets a stranger, another girl around her age named Anna. A friendship is forged.
These two girls were so genuine. I walked in their shoes. Understood their decisions. Felt their insecurity and fear. And applauded there bravery. A world such as theirs was a difficult one to navigate and they persevered, despite the odds against them. I was really caught up in their story and was anxious to read where the author took the young girls. What obstacles and dangers she put in their paths. The closer I got to the end the more curious I became.
The ending was good, but it was also a cliff hanger. I didn’t mind as I enjoyed the story and knew I would continue with the series. I recommend this to all readers who enjoy the dystopian genre and character driven adventures.
4 STARS
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Author Interview
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What’s your favourite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?
For those of you who’ve been to Canada, how could you ever choose?
I mean, we are the second largest country, by area, in the world. We have the Atlantic, Pacific and Arctic Oceans cradling our coasts (which make up the world’s longest coastline) and the Great Lakes in the middle of our country (the largest freshwater system in the world). We have many mountain ranges including the Rocky, St. Elias and Laurentian Mountains and the flat—yet majestic—prairie provinces.
Basically, Canada has something for everyone!
What really makes Canada special, however, is its people—especially those on the east coast where the novel, The After, takes place—in Nova Scotia. In my travels throughout my country, I’ve never met more generous, kind, fun, happy, big-hearted people than those in Nova Scotia.
If you ever get the chance, visit the four Atlantic provinces (Newfoundland & Labrador, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Nova Scotia). It will be the trip of a lifetime!
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