Bøger udgivet af CAEZIK

Frank Herbert's magnificent Dune saga sprawls across countless planets and tens of millennia...But while the main novels concentrate on major events and major characters, a universe this complex begs for additional stories, filing in all the details that may sometimes get overlooked in the telling of the main saga. Tales of Dune collects eight such stories, ranging from the period of the Butlerian Jihad, to the time of young Paul Atreides, to a story set during the events of the novel Dune, to the very end of Frank Herbert's future history."--Dust jacket flap.

New Rock New Realm, the highly anticipated sequel to New Rock New Role, continues the exhilarating journey started in the first book.Shortly after surviving—against overwhelming odds—their epic quest in New Rock New Role, Battlemage Daxx and his crew (dual-wielding sword-dancer Qrysta, heavily-armed Orc Grell and sneakthief Oller, with his mutt companion Little Guy) are off on their next adventure. A mysterious ghost ship arrives, carrying a cryptic message for them. Setting sail full of good intentions, they are soon embroiled in the eternal struggle between the forces of good and the forces of evil. If they are to find a way out of an impossible situation, each must complete a separate mission in a realm where nowhere is safe for them.New Rock New Realm is a captivating tale that will enthrall lovers of epic fantasy. Told with his customary wit, Richard Sparks' skillful storytelling weaves a tapestry of adventure, mystery, suspense and emotional depth—with plenty of comic moments spicing up events as they progress.Memorable characters, imaginative settings and challenging quests all combine to make the New Rock series an unforgettable addition to the genre.

Andromeda McKee rebuilt her life in the violent embrace ofthe Legion of the Damned in the days when cyborgs were first being introduced.Now she must choose between her conscience and her desire for vengeance....In a different world, Lady Catherine "Cat"Carletto would never have left her pampered life behind. But when PrincessOphelia became Empress Ophelia in a coup that claimed the lives of theprincess’ brother and all who supported him, including the Carletto family, Cathad to hide - or die. She became Legionnaire Andromeda McKee, and now she’s abattle-scarred veteran who knows how to kill. Summoned to Earth to receive theImperial Order of Merit from the empress herself, Andromeda learns that sheisn’t the sole surviving Carletto - her uncle Rex is not only still alive butalso the leader of a resistance group determined to overthrow Ophelia. Caught up in a web of intrigue, Andromeda realizes that themoment is coming when her revenge will be at hand. But will she be able to act,or will she be betrayed by those she has come to trust?

In Andromeda's War, Dietz' heroine will face her ultimatetest - as a battle-scarred legionnaire and as an innocent young woman who oncelost everything... Now a platoon leader, Legionnaire Andromeda McKee seems tohave successfully left behind her true identity of Lady Catherine"Cat" Carletto, one of the last two surviving members of the Carlettofamily targeted for death by Empress Ophelia. After failing at her one shot at vengeance, Andromeda hadbeen questioning her own resolve. But now her uncle has been killed in agovernment raid back on Earth, leaving her as the last Carletto standing - andthe family's only chance for justice... A chance that comes when the empress'ship crashes on a hostile planet and Andromeda is assigned to head up therescue mission. As a legionnaire, Andromeda McKee has countless kills underher belt. But when faced with her greatest enemy, it will be Cat Carletto whohas to pull the trigger on the one who really matters...

Following my nose is a Hugo and Nebulaauthor and critic Alexei Panshin’s very personal journey into literary analysisand his own reflections. Panshin discusses his own journey as wellas works that influenced his own writing and on science fiction in general.Authors like A.E. van Vogt, Charles Dodgson (Lewis Caroll) and others haveshaped both the genre as well as Panshin’s own art. This work also discusses a broader critiqueof the genre and its impact on literature and culture, drawing heavily from hisoutstanding, Hugo-winning book, The World Beyond the Hill. Beautifully written as only Alexei Panshincan, the book perfectly melds his own personal journey, a unique perspective onscience fiction and the power of the genre to influence our culture.

When lies become truths andtwo kingdoms head to a bloody war,a man is exiled for his conscienceRefusing the queen’s order to gas a crowd of protesters, Minister Shea Ashcroft is banished to the border to oversee the construction of the biggest defensive tower in history. However, the use of advanced technology taken from refugees makes the tower volatile and dangerous, becoming a threat to local interests. Shea has no choice but to fight the local hierarchy to ensure the construction succeeds—and to reclaim his own life.Surviving an assassination attempt, Shea confronts his inner demons, encounters an ancient legend, and discovers a portal to a dead world—all while struggling to stay true to his own principles and maintain his sanity. Fighting memories and hallucinations, he starts to question everything...Sleeping Worlds Have No Memory is a thought-provoking meditation on the fragility of the human condition, our beliefs, the manipulation of propaganda for political gains, and our ability to distinguish the real from the unreal and our willingness to accept convenient “truths.”  The novel is a compelling exploration of memory, its fragile nature, and its profound impact on our perception of identity, relationships, and facts themselves."Eloquent, moody, poetic. . . masterful."—Beth Cato (author of A Thousand Recipes for Revenge)A note from the author: “A major theme of the book is how disinformation and propaganda can be used to justify violence, and how ignoring evil can lead people to accept atrocities. I was able to witness all this first-hand, having spent the first 21 years of my life in Russia and absorbing the recent events unfiltered and in my native tongue. Sleeping worlds are not only devoid of memories; they are also oblivious to the pain of others.”A unique blend of science fiction, fantasy and noir, with zeitgeist and prophetic qualities (the original novella anticipated the Russo-Ukrainian War), this is a must for fans of China Miéville’s Bas-Lag series, Ted Chiang’s Tower of Babylon, and Robert Silverberg’s Tower of Glass.

This is the third volume in this highly praised series (the first won the World Fantasy Award). Previous works been praised for their eclectic mix of stories, offering a panorama of themes and styles. For instance, the 2021 edition included a story about a woman struggling with her identity and relationship in the face of a thought-recording device, a tale of a man fostering a rapidly evolving robot, and an adventurous narrative about a sentient robot dog engaging in space piracy. These stories not only explored advanced technologies and speculative scenarios but also delved deep into human emotions, relationships, and societal issues.Themes of personal struggles, such as dealing with depression, anxiety, and feelings of alienation, were also prominent. These were manifested through unique and powerful metaphors, like a woman whose detachable body parts symbolized her sense of disintegration and invisibility, or a story that portrayed the torment of self-contempt through the constant barrage of negative thoughts from imaginary entities.The anthology also ventured into mythic dimensions, echoing the voices and histories of entire cultures through concise yet profound storytelling. For example, flash fiction pieces in the collection reached the heights of epic poetry, encapsulating the journey of human life and cultural evolution.With such a backdrop, the 2023 volume can be expected to continue this tradition of blending speculative elements with deep human experiences and cultural narratives. It's likely to feature stories that push the boundaries of imagination while staying grounded in the complexities of the human condition. Readers can anticipate a collection that not only entertains but also provokes thought and offers new perspectives on both the future and the present. The anthology is not just a showcase of speculative fiction; it's a celebration of African storytelling, creativity, and the endless possibilities within the realm of speculative fiction.

Lost Origins (Book One of the Majestic Chronicles) is an enthralling space odyssey set in a distant future where Earth is a lost legend. In this riveting tale, Maddy, a skilled smuggler, embarks on a perilous mission carrying vital medicine and a cryptic data crystal. Her journey plunges her into a universe brimming with danger, from space pirates to complex political intrigue.Maddy's character is a blend of strength and vulnerability, making her a compelling protagonist. Her journey is not just about the physical travel through space, but also an exploration of her own morals and choices. This adds depth to the narrative, offering readers more than just an action-packed adventure.The novel deftly balances high-stakes action with thought-provoking themes. As Maddy maneuvers through perilous situations, she is confronted with questions of right and wrong in a morally grey universe. This element of ethical dilemma enriches the plot, making it a gripping read.Lost Origins is a must-read for fans of space opera and character-driven stories. The novel's rich world-building, combined with Maddy's compelling character arc, makes it an unforgettable journey across the stars, filled with suspense, action, and deep human insights.

Journeys Beyond the Fantastical Horizon offers a fresh exploration of the magical and the otherworldly. From sentient spaceships to anxiety goblins, this anthology explores the breadth and depth of speculative fiction originally published in Galaxy’s Edge magazine, including Aurora, British Fantasy, BSFA, Hugo, Nebula and Nommo nominated and winning stories. No two pieces are alike, yet all these tales best represent the diversity and range of the genre, challenging readers to question societal norms and reality, igniting the imagination. Let each story transport you to unseen worlds, to places and times that exist beyond the boundaries of the familiar, beyond the fantastical horizon. Your journey awaits.

In the sequel to Hot Moon, set in an alternate 1983, Apollo astronaut Vivian Carter and her crew barely survive an armed attack from mysterious assailants at the lunar South Pole. Back at the joint Zvezda-US Copernicus Moonbase, the precarious Cold War cease-fire between the NASA and Soviet crews comes under threat from another consolidated assault. Vivian must navigate a treacherous political and military landscape, and travel from the lunar surface to high lunar orbit and back again, to solve the riddle of these strange lunar incursions and move ahead to a future that even she can barely imagine.

A meticulously curated, fully annotated anthology that serves as an indispensable and convenient resource for students and teachers. The combination of annotated texts of these classic stories with additional aids including detailed explanations and incisive critical essays will greatly aid students in their journey through literary analysis. Each story has been thoughtfully chosen to address specific themes and concepts that are vital to literary studies, ensuring that students not only enjoy the narratives but also gain a profound understanding of their significance in the world of literature.”The Most Dangerous Game" by Richard Connell: This story is a cornerstone in literature education. By diving into themes of morality, empathy, and survival, it offers students the perfect platform to hone their skills in character analysis and situational ethics. The gripping narrative draws students in, challenging them to think critically about human nature and the complexities of morality. Its timeless relevance ensures that it remains a topic of vital discussions in classrooms, enabling students to connect with and reflect on profound ethical questions."The Story of an Hour" by Kate Chopin: This tale is a powerful lens through which students can explore the intricate dynamics of women's roles and personal freedoms in the 19th century. As a landmark piece of feminist literature, it serves as an invaluable springboard for discussions on gender, societal norms, and the essence of individual identity. By engaging with this narrative, students are encouraged to think analytically about the societal constructs of their time and the timeless challenges of self-definition."The Garden Party" by Katherine Mansfield: Beyond its captivating narrative, this story is a treasure trove of themes that are pivotal for comprehensive literature studies. By delving into topics of class distinction, mortality, and self-realization, it offers students a unique opportunity to dissect social constructs and ponder the intricacies of the human condition. As students navigate this narrative, they are propelled to think deeply about society's layered structures and the profound questions of life and identity.With this anthology in their hands, students are equipped with the tools they need to embark on a rich and rewarding literary journey, fostering a deep appreciation for the art of storytelling and its profound impact on intellectual growth.

"Experience a truly extraordinary journey aboard a colossal generation ship, where Earth s brightest minds have forged a strict regime to ensure survival of the human race. The unintentionally-oppressive rules form uniquely distinct societies as the years pass, until differences in ideology, class, and cultural identity stirs up rebellion among the beleaguered crew, igniting the first whispers of revolution."--

What happens when emotions like love and friendship span vast distances — in space, in time, and in the heart?Science fiction often focuses on future technology and science without considering the ways social structures will change as tech changes — or not. The rapid change in technology and how it permeates nearly everything is changing every facet of how we live, including how we interact with others What willrelationships look like in the complicated future of clones, uploaded intelligences, artificial brains, or body augmentation? What stories emerge when we acknowledge possibilities of new genders and ways of thinking aboutthem? The Reinvented Heart presents stories that complicate sex and gender by showing how shifting technology may affect social attitudes and practices, stories that include relationships withcommunities and social groups, stories that reinvent traditional romance tropes and recast them for the 21st century, and above all, stories that experiment, astonish, and entertain.

Widely regarded as a true classic in science fiction, Nostrilia remains extremely popular and influential. Neil Gaiman and Gene Wolfe have both cited the influence of the book on their fiction.Nostrilia is often cited as an important precursor to the cyberpunk movement of the 1980s, which was characterized by its gritty, urban settings and its focus on the intersection of technology and humanity. Additionally, Smith's unique style has been noted as an influence on a number of other science fiction authors.The story takes place on an alien planet called Norstrilia, which is home to a unique breed of sheep that produces an incredibly valuable substance known as stroon. Rod McBan, the richest person on Norstrilia wants to circumvent the strict export laws governing the trade of stoon and gets involved in a complicated web of politics and bureaucracy in order to achieve his goal.His ambition takes him to various places, and subjects him to various adventures and he meets a woman named C'mell, who is a member of an alien race that can shape-shift into human form. C'mell becomes a close ally of Rod's and helps him to navigate the complex politics of the ruling Instrumentality.Overall, Nostralia is a complex and engaging story that explores many themes, including the nature of power and wealth, the importance of personal relationships, and the dangers of unchecked bureaucracy and politics. Through the character of Rod McBan, Cordwainer Smith offers anuanced and thought-provoking commentary on the human condition and the potential for both good and evil in all of us, which is as relevant today as it was when he first wrote the book.

"What if HIV started spreading in the early 1500s rather than the late 1900s? Without modern medicine, anybody who catches HIV is going to die. A patriarchal society reacts to this devastating disease in the only way it knows how: it sequesters women as much as possible, limiting contacts between the sexes except for married couples. While imperfect, such drastic actions do limit the spread of the disease. The 'Wasting' (HIV) has caused devasting destruction throughout the known world and severely limited the development of technology as well, creating a mid-nineteenth century England and London almost unrecognizable to us. This is the world Viola is born into. Extremely intelligent and growing up in a house full of medical books which she reads, she dreams of travelling to far-off places, something she can only do via books since her actions and movements are severely restricted by both law custom."--Provided by publisher.

As though landing people safely on Mars weren't daunting enough ...The Space Race of the Sixties, at the height of the Cold War, had been nail-biting—until the Soviet Union forfeited.In the thirties—amid a second Cold War—China is not about to lose the race to Mars. Nor is the United States. Nor, quite the wildcard, is asecretive cabal drawn from among the world's multi-billionaires. All of them are scrambling to launch deep-space missions on a schedule that makes the Sixtiescontest appear lackadaisical.This competition could only continue on the Red Planet.More treacherous still? The rivalries, resentments, and distrust that simmer just beneath the surface within each expedition.More difficult yet? Survival on that arid, radiation-drenched, all-but-airless, planet.These challenges have somehow fallen into the lap of NASA engineer—and reluctant astronaut—Xander Hopkins.But the thorniest problem of all? The existential quandary for which neither training nor experience has prepared Xander? Making sense of the seemingly unstoppable plague that has already killed many on Mars, and seems poised to devastate all life on another planet.Earth.

The perfect blend of the gaming world and epic fantasy.With millions watching on live stream, Daxx and his teammates Qrysta and Grell win the role-playing Games (RPG) Grand Championship. But winning the game was was a piece of cake compared with what comes next.Daxx wakes up to find he's turned into his own avatar and is in the middle of a wilderness he doesn't recognize. Armed with a crappy sword he has no idea how to use and dressed in beginner-level gear he must figure out how to survive quickly because he can already hear the blood-thirsty howls of wild animals from the jungle that surrounds him.Thus starts a fantastic epic fantasy adventure. Once the three friends finally find each other they need to puzzle out their new world, gain skills, combat enemies, and make alliances with all kinds of characters and creatures from the different territories of this new world in order to survive. The heart stopping action is interspersed with humor making it a idiculously fun and addictive read. Ready Player One meets Lord of the Rings in Disc World.

If you do it well, lying is every bit as effective as magic.Conrad Brent has no innate magic, so he bluffs a lot and uses a myriad of magical items to protect Brooklyn from monsters and arcane threats. As a member of the Watch, the group that protects the mundane humans from such dangers, he risks his life on a regular basis. Sometimes twice before lunch. Sometimes during lunch, when he dares order his food from a street cart. After regaining his position in the Watch which he’d temporarily lost due to the machinations of a variety of evil-doers, Conrad doesn’t want to take any risks he doesn’t have to. But now his boss is missing, there’s a totalitarian new regime in City Hall oppressing all magic users, and the mayor has aligned himself with a diabolical villain.In order to save the day, Conrad must team up with a recovering necromancer to mediate a dispute between two ancient enemy factions, solve a mystery of a warded house adjacent to a cemetery, and stand with his friends against tyranny.That is, if the interdimensional fae assassins don’t get him first.

A captivating collection of original stories and essays by award-winning authors that celebrates the richness and complexity of African mysticism.African literary scholars struggle to reconcile African mysticism with literary labels. Between Dystopias: The Road to Afropantheology encapsulates the essence of African mysticism and dystopia through original stories.Afropantheology explores various aspects of African mysticism and dystopia. ‘Mother's Love, Father's Place’ and ‘02 Arena’ are examples. It acknowledges Africa's journey from its origins to the future. ‘The Deification of Igodo’ and ‘A Dance with the Ancestors’ are stories that showcase the complexity of African mysticism. ‘Land of the Awaiting Birth’ explores the link between theborn and the unborn. .Between Dystopias: The Road to Afropantheology is a celebration of African mysticism. The collection highlights the richness and complexity of African culture and traditions. It is a must-read for anyone interested in African literature, culture, and history.

Amidst political turmoil on Earth, a rescue mission to ailing colonists on Mars becomes a battle for power and survival in the harsh realities of space.As humanity explores space, political strife rips apart nations and increases social divides. US President Horton Willoughby III governs only Eastern America and is seen as a political farce. Industrialist Richfield Chan sees opportunity in the fractured government and plans to seize power.Chan rallies allies to send a seventh colony ship to Mars, hoping to undermine the current president. The Ngu family, responsible for terraforming and mining on Pallas, realize that any rescue mission from Earth will arrive too late. Four siblings launch a rescue mission from Pallas to save the ailing colonists with their expertise and better chosen implements.The Ngu siblings know their mission is one-way and must teach the colonists to survive on the inhospitable planet or find a way to endure until another rescue ship arrives. The “little people” refuse to be subject to incompetent governments any longer and must make their own stand.

"In the highly anticipated follow-up to the acclaimed 2021 anthology descibed as containing "some of the most exciting voices, old and new, from Africa and the diaspora, published in the 2020 year," readers will be blown away by the caliber of stories and poems collected in this exciting new volume. The Year's Best African Speculative Fiction 2021 won the World Fantasy Award for best anthology and was met with widespread critical acclaim from all around the globe, with the science fiction trade magazine, Locus, calling it a "must read." Multiple award-winning editor Oghenechovwe Donald Ekpeki, who created the first anthology, now joins forces with Eugen Bacon, a 2023 British Fantasy Award winner, and Milton Davis, an award-winning black speculative fiction writer and editor, to introduce readers to an ever more diverse list of authors associated with Africa. Timely and relevant to today's world, the fiction selected for this book will astonish, shock and amaze readers, while introducing them to rich cultures and vibrant characters that push the envelope." -- back cover

"Daniel F. Galouye’s work has often been described as a lost classic and I’m inclined to agree.  His world building skills are top notch… Dark Universe ranks among the best post-apocalyptical books from the late 50s and early 60s. A truly rewarding sci-fi take on Plato’s cave."—Science Fiction and Other Suspect RuminationsA Hugo Award nominee, Dark Universe, is the classic tale of a post-apocalyptic world where humans have built a society in the dark underground. The descendants of the survivors only remember the pre-apocalyptic world in old stories, legends and myths. Light, itself, is remembered as something holy, and Radiation is feared as the ultimate evil. Jared is the son of the Prime Survivor, the leader of the Lower Level Clan. In a world of darkness and monsters both real and imagined, Jared embarks on a quest for Light. Little does he know just how dangerous his quest will turn out to be.A CAEZIK Notable book. CAEZIK Notables is a series of speculative-fiction books marking important milestones in science fiction or fantasy. Each book published in the series has a new introduction highlighting the book’s significance within the genre.

A CAEZIK Notable book. CAEZIK Notables is a series of speculative-fiction books marking important milestones in science fiction or fantasy. Each book published in the series has a new introduction highlighting the book's significance within the genre. Bolo is one of the original titles of Military science fiction and considered a classic by many of the writers in the genre who consider this a seminal work that shaped their own storytelling. The book describes the evolution of intelligent fighting machines. As the capabilities of artificial intelligence increased, the Bolo division of General Motors started working on tank designs that incorporated awareness and intelligence within the development of their tactical tanks. With each new generation, these awesome fighting machines become more self-aware, with capabilities not only matching their human controllers, but often surpassing them. This collection of action-packed stories lets the Bolo war machines speak for themselves as they hunt and destroy all who stands in their way. But beyond the action itself, these stories speak to us all on a very human level ... about the far-reaching, and often tragic, consequences of our actions.

Portions of this book have previously appeared in Reboots and Reboots: Diabolical Streak    "Unfettered oddball entertainment.”—Publisher’s Weekly    Say hello to Humph the Boggart, the principled, down-on-his-luck private detective, Skinny Jim the zombie, and Fred the werewolf, in this film noir style space opera.    Humans aren’t alone anymore—in fact, they share a planet with undead and near-dead beings, living in…semi-harmony, depending on who you ask!    This is the world of Reboots—where zombies, vampires, and werewolves live side-by-side with humans, taking whatever jobs they can to coexist peacefully. So, what better job to give almost-dead or dead beings, than one that consists of no air, cosmic radiation, and a lack of life-sustaining essentials?    In comes a cast of interesting, unique, and downright paranormal creatures as they travel through space.    Consisting of four parts, Reboots: Undead Can Dance is a space opera destined to become a favorite, written by beloved and world-renowned fantasy author Mercedes Lackey and Cody Martin.    Follow Skinny Jim, a zombie who conceals his ability to speak to avoid being exterminated after an ill-fated war launched by a zombie emperor, leading to an alliance between Norms, the Fangs, and the Furs. And then there’s Humph the Boggart, an ethereal parahuman private investigator who navigates interspecies relationships in claustrophobic extraterrestrial environments with his friends, including Fred the werewolf.    And what happens when you put them all together in a confined space?    Lackey and Martin have created a perfect, witty, fast-paced read that you won’t be able to put down and will leave you craving more.

Hugo Award WinnerA CAEZIK Notable book. CAEZIK Notables is a series of speculative-fiction books marking important milestones in science fiction or fantasy. Each book published in the series has a new introduction highlighting the book's significance within the genre. Many of Heinlein's fans consider the novels he wrote in the fifties amongst the author's strongest work; when he was at the peak of his talents. Double Star is considered by many to be the finest of his titles. Brian Aldiss called it his "most enjoyable novel." Whether it is the simplicity of a lively tale, the complexity of the situation, or the depth of characterization, the book has developed a loyal following. It also won Heinlein his first Hugo. The story revolves around Lawrence Smith--also known as "Lorenzo the Great"--a down-and-out actor wasting the remainder of his life in bars. When he encounters a space-pilot who offers him a drink, before he knows what is going on, he is on Mars involved in a deep conspiracy with global consequences. He is given a mission where failure would not only mean his own death, it would almost certainly mean an all-out planetary war. "Heinlein's novels of the 1940s and 50s shaped every single science fiction writer of my generation and everyone currently writing science fiction. Or making science fiction movies ... and Double Star is an excellent example of all the reasons why."--Connie WillisCAEZIK Notables is a new line of science fiction and fantasy titles that have had a significant impact on their respective genre. Each book has a unique place in the development of speculative fiction. Every title published under the CAEZIK notables line will have a matching cover set and will carry an introduction by an expert in the field.

"Standouts include...Mike Resnick and Lezli Robyn's beautifully sad "Benchwarmer," which takes us into the world of imaginary friends, and introduces us to one friend who simply can't let go of the boy who created him."-io9"A satisfying sampler of solid stories from a team that rarely disappoints." -Publishers WeeklyMultiple award-winning authors, Mike Resnick and Lezli Robyn, get to the heart of the matter in Soulmates, which showcases all the words they have penned together over their years as collaborators (with a bonus solo piece by each). Whether a robot, alien, some kind of supernatural being or human, rising above our prejudices and ignorance allows us to make emotional connections that can have a profound effect on our lives.

With Mother’s Day approaching, four women living in a picturesque coastal town discover a second chance at love when they finally find their happily-ever-after partners in this anthology of contemporary romance novellas.  MOM WANTED Claire Bishop’s life as an art teacher in Sea Glass Bay is full and rewarding, but her heart longs for a family she’ll never have. When she agrees to help out widower Sully Vaughn by taking care of his daughter after school, Sully is concerned his little girl, Lindie, is growing too attached to her favorite teacher. Sully is trying his best to protect his child from the heartache of loss that nearly destroyed him, but he hasn’t taken into account his passion for the dynamic woman—nor Lindie’s determination to lay claim to the perfect mom.  FATHER WANTED Jazzy Dunbar is enjoying life as a single mom, proving that you don’t have to have a man to have it all. Jeremiah Caldwell, a good friend, made the perfect sperm donor. He’s happy with their “no strings attached” relationship ... or is he? He wants to be more than a sometimes-father in baby Caleb’s life. Jazzy doesn’t want to ruin their friendship by allowing their attraction to flare, but when a serious situation threatens, will Jeremiah be able to prove that they can have love and the perfect family?  HERO WANTED Single mom Leah Martin needs to find a wedding date for her ex-husband’s wedding. Their son, Owen, is going to be the ringbearer and her attendance is required. But this florist has no time to date around the busy Mother’s Day holiday, which is why she agrees to let her friends set her up for a blind date. Hank DeLeon’s bar shares an alley with Leah’s florist shop, which is the perfect location for a restaurant if she’s willing to relocate. When he’s asked to take her on a blind date, he has to wonder: Is this a great chance for a business proposition? Or a once-in-a-lifetime chance at love?  FAMILY WANTED After a corporate restructuring at her accounting firm, Paige Duffy moved north to Sea Glass Bay and opened a handmade candle booth at the coastal town’s popular local craft market. Now her severance is running out and Paige discovers she’s pregnant from a one-night stand. Charter boat owner, Gavin Cole, lost his grandfather six months ago, promising him he’d finally pursue his dreams of sailing the open ocean. But when Paige tells him that she’s pregnant with his child, Gavin must decide what adventure he really wants: The one he’s always dreamed of, or the one he never believed possible.

Rarely do books have such a great influence on a genre as Lest Darkness Fall has had on science fiction. Frequently quoted as one of the favorite books of many of the masters in this genre, this book by L. Sprague de Camp helped establish alternate-history as solid subgenre of science fiction. An indication of the influence and longevity of the book is by the number of best-selling writers who have written stories in direct response to, or influenced by, Lest Darkness Fall. The original tribute volume. titled Lest Darkness Fall and Related Stories, reprinted three such stories by Frederik Pohl, David Drake and S. M. Stirling written over a period of forty-three years―a testament to the timelessness of the book. The 2021 edition Lest Darkness Fall and Timeless Tales Told in Tribute includes two brand new stories by Harry Turtledove and David Weber. Similar thematically to Mark Twain’s A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur’s Court, the book tells the tale of Martin Padway who, as he is walking around in modern Rome, is suddenly transported though time to 6th-century Rome. Once in ancient Rome, Padway (now Martinus Paduei Quastor) embarks on an ambitious project of single-handedly changing history. L. Sprague de Camp was a student of history (and the author of a number of popular works on the subject). In Lest Darkness Fall he combines his extensive knowledge of the workings of ancient Rome with his extraordinary imagination to create one of the best books of time travel ever written. This volume also includes an afterword by Alexei and Cory Panshin, adapted from their Hugo-winning book on science fiction, The World Beyond the Hill.