A Universe of Stories: August’s Must-Read Sci-Fi, Fantasy, and Horror Books
Summer’s final month is here, and as the days grow shorter and the air cools, there’s no better way to stay warm than curled up with a good book. August brings a treasure trove of new releases across the realms of science fiction, fantasy, and horror, promising a thrilling escape into worlds both familiar and fantastical. From epic quests and supernatural vengeance to deep-space adventures and forbidden romances, this month’s offerings cater to every reader’s taste.
Grab a mug of something warm, settle in, and get ready to embark on a literary adventure:
August 6: A Divergent Mix of Genres
August 6th kicks off the month with a diverse selection of titles that showcase the breadth of imagination in speculative fiction.
For the space-faring adventurer: Chase Gamwell‘s "Aiko’s Dive" takes us on a journey across the galaxy with Aiko, a teenage orphan who discovers she’s one of the last humans left in the vast universe. This young adult novel promises to be a thrilling blend of science fiction and coming-of-age themes, exploring questions of identity, belonging, and survival in a world on the brink of extinction.
Intrigued by suspenseful thrillers? Stuart Neville‘s "Blood Like Mine" serves up a chilling tale about a mother and daughter on the run, hiding a dark secret. Their journey takes a terrifying turn when they become entwined with an FBI agent hunting a serial killer with a gruesome signature: draining victims of all their blood. Prepare for a heart-pounding narrative with complex characters and a sinister atmosphere.
Dave Duncan‘s posthumous release, "Corridor to Nightmare," transports us to a world of fantasy and magic. Duncan’s signature blend of sci-fi and fantasy shines through in this story of a teacher whose quiet retirement plans are shattered when a stranger leads her through a portal to a world of violence and wonder. Get ready for a whimsical yet gripping journey with a touch of bittersweet nostalgia.
For a blend of romance and fantasy: Harper L. Woods‘ "The Coven" promises a captivating read for those craving a hot, magical escape. The novel, described as a sexy and imaginative fantasy romance, merges the captivating elements of "The Magicians" and "Ninth House," bringing vampires, forbidden magic, and passionate desires into the fold.
P. Djèlí Clark’s "The Dead Cat Tail Assassins" offers a vibrant and imaginative fantasy adventure set in an ancient city. The story follows Even, a skilled assassin who adheres to the strict vows of her Matron, until an unexpected encounter forces her to confront her forgotten past. Prepare for a fast-paced and captivating read with a touch of magical realism and historical inspiration.
"Full Speed to a Crash Landing" by Beth Revis is the first in a novella trilogy focusing on a daring space heist. Meet a looter who finds himself rescued by a salvage crew, only to ignite a spark with the government agent in charge. This high-octane adventure promises a steamy romantic twist amid a backdrop of galactic intrigue and danger.
For a delve into mythology: Emily H. Wilson‘s "Gilgamesh" returns as the second volume in her compelling Sumerians trilogy. Witness Gilgamesh’s struggles to save his city, showcasing the author’s ability to bring ancient myths to life with a modern sensibility.
Nicholas Sansbury Smith concludes his "Hell Divers" series with "Hell Divers XII: Heroes." In this final chapter, the beloved heroes face their ultimate mission – a desperate bid to resurrect a world teetering on the brink of collapse. Fans of post-apocalyptic fiction and action-packed space opera will find themselves drawn to this final adventure.
"House of Bone and Rain" by Gabino Iglesias promises a dark and haunting exploration of vengeance. This gritty, contemporary novel follows a group of young men seeking retribution after their mother’s murder in a Puerto Rican slum, reminiscent of "Stand By Me" with a heart of obsidian darkness.
Helen Phillips’ "Hum" presents a dystopian future grappling with climate change and the rise of intelligent robots, or "hums." May faces the harsh reality of her job being replaced by AI, leaving her desperately seeking a solution for her family’s financial woes. Her journey leads her to an experiment that alters her face to evade surveillance, forcing her to confront the complex ramifications of a world where technology and humanity collide.
Matthew Lyons’ "A Mask of Flies" is a thrilling, psychological suspense novel revolving around a criminal on the run after a heist gone wrong. The pursuit of justice reveals a darker truth for the fugitive as she must face the demons of her past, now manifested in terrifying flesh.
For space opera fans: James S.A. Corey’s "The Mercy of Gods" marks the beginning of a new series, "Captive’s War." The authors of the beloved "Expanse" series, Daniel Abraham and Ty Franck, deliver a grand story of humanity fighting for survival in a war as old as the universe itself.
Sam Ripley’s "The Rule of Three" offers a chilling journey into the realm of horror and suspense. The novel blends the atmospheric dread of "The Whisper Man" with the paranoia and unease of "The Blair Witch Project," as an urban legend takes on horrifyingly tangible form.
T. Kingfisher delivers a dark and enchanting reimagining of "The Goose Girl" in her book "A Sorceress Comes to Call." Filled with secrets, murder, and forbidden magic, this twisted fairytale will leave readers entranced.
Wen Spencer continues her urban fantasy Tinker Series with "Storm Furies." Join Tinker and her allies as they face off against an oni invasion of Pittsburgh on Elfhome – an event predicted by prophecy, though with some unexpected twists.
Sascha Stronach’s "Sunforge" continues the queer and Maori-inspired "Endsong trilogy." Witness a city in chaos as a pirate crew armed with magic uncovers an ancient battle between gods, posing a dire threat to their world.
Ruben Reyes Jr.‘s debut story collection, "There Is a Rio Grande in Heaven: Stories," offers a powerful exploration of Central American identity. These electrifying stories span past, present, and future, delving into the complexities of personal agency and cultural heritage.
"The Thirteenth Husband" by Greer Macallister explores the life of 19th-century heiress Aimée Crocker through a fictionalized biography. Dive into a world of glamor and tragedy as Crocker encounters a mysterious Woman in White who foretells the many misfortunes that will mark her life.
Leslie J. Anderson’s "The Unmothers" delves into the heart of folk horror in a small town harboring a dark secret. A journalist sent to investigate this strange community finds herself unraveling a shocking truth the women have kept hidden for generations.
MJ Wassmer’s "Zero Stars, Do Not Recommend" is a satirical and witty social commentary inspired by "White Lotus" and Kevin Wilson. Dive into a world where an exploding sun leaves a group trapped on a luxurious island resort. Forced to confront the chaos and uncertainties of the world, they must decide whether to choose self-preservation or risk everything to help their fellow guests survive.
August 13: A Journey Into the Mystical and Historical
August 13th delivers an exciting selection of books that blend ancient lore, magic, and timeless themes of love, loss, and identity.
Wen-Yi Lee’s "The Dark We Know" is a gripping tale of supernatural horror. A young woman escapes her restrictive hometown after the deaths of her close friends, only to return for her abusive father’s funeral and discover a terrifying force that claims her friends and sets its sights on her.
"The Dollmakers" by Lynn Buchanan makes its debut in the world of fantasy and horror, introducing us to a world where destructive monsters rule and magical dolls are crafted to fight them. This compelling debut promises a dark and imaginative world with intricate themes of creation and destruction.
R.R. Virdi’s "The Doors of Midnight" serves as the much-anticipated sequel to "The First Binding," a Silk Road-inspired epic fantasy. The book follows the deepening of a storytellers’ tale as myths are born, offering a captivating dive into a world rich with lore and intrigue.
"Everything We Never Knew" by Julianne Hough and Ellen Goodlett is a page-turner with a touch of paranormal. A realtor suddenly develops the ability to predict and prevent tragedies. As she strives to help others, including her own husband, she must confront a dark secret from her past to ultimately fulfill her destiny.
"Glass Houses" by Madeline Ashby is a near-future whodunit filled with intrigue and delicious absurdity. A group of employees, celebrating the sale of their emotion-mapping AI algorithm, find themselves stranded on a seemingly deserted tropical island. Prepare for a murder mystery with a twist of technology and dark humor.
Jen DeLuca’s "Haunted Ever After" offers a charming romantic comedy with a touch of supernatural charm. A coffee-shop owner with a ghostly roommate finds herself developing feelings for a woman who’s just bought a haunted cottage in a Florida town renowned for its spectral residents.
Jennifer Saint’s "Hera" is a powerful feminist retelling of the Greek myth of the goddess Hera. Discover a new side of the Queen of the Gods as she emerges as a hero of her own story.
Ava Reid’s "Lady Macbeth" offers a subversive and empowering reimagining of Shakespeare’s most infamous villainess. Reid gives Lady Macbeth a voice, a past, and a power that challenges the narrative men have imposed upon her.
"Loka" by S.B. Divya is a thrilling epic space opera with a focus on self-discovery and belonging. A young girl embarks on a quest to find her place within a complex and vast universe, exploring themes of identity, family, and the meaning of home.
"Mistress of Lies" by K.M. Enright is a dark romantic fantasy with a compelling anti-heroine. A bloodthirsty and villainous character finds herself immersed in the treacherous world of power, politics, and murder in the court of the vampire king.
Jonathan Straham’s "New Adventures in Space Opera" is an anthology of 15 fantastic interstellar adventures curated by the esteemed editor. Featuring works by some of the biggest names in the genre, including Ann Leckie, Becky Chambers, Alastair Reynolds, and T. Kingfisher, this collection promises a diverse and captivating exploration of space and its endless mysteries.
"Oath of Fire" by K. Arsenault Rivera is a lush and gripping sapphic retelling of the myth of Psyche and Eros. This enchanting blend of Greek mythology and fae court intrigue offers a unique and captivating narrative with a focus on love, passion, and self-discovery.
S.A. MacLean delivers a cozy fantasy with a queer romance at its heart in "The Phoenix Keeper." Set in a magical zoo filled with fantastical creatures, the book invites readers to journey through a world of wonder and magic** while exploring themes of love, loss, and healing.
"Time’s Agent" by Brenda Peynado is a multiverse tale of love, loss, and time travel. A story of a world grappling with the complexities of technology and its impact on society, exploring themes of hope, resilience, and the enduring power of human connection.
"Traveling Light: Tales of the Magical Gates" is an anthology presented by Worldbuilding for Masochists, featuring a collection of 12 stories that explore the vast possibilities of magical gates and their impact on the world around them. Contributors include Marie Brennan, Victor Manibo, Kate Elliott, and Marshall Ryan Maresca, offering a richly diverse range of perspectives on this intriguing theme.
Sarah Hawley’s "A Werewolf’s Guide to Seducing a Vampire" offers a lighthearted and humorous romantic fantasy with an unlikely couple at its center. This story of an age-old werewolf and a cursed vampire succubus promises a quirky and charming journey into a world where opposites attract and unexpected love blossoms.
August 20: Into the Shadows and Beyond
August 20th presents a selection of books that embrace the darker corners of fantasy, horror, and speculative fiction, inviting readers to explore the depths of imagination and grapple with unsettling themes.
Kerstin Hall’s "Asunder" delivers a dark and atmospheric tale of supernatural suspense. A woman gains the ability to commune with the dead after making a deal with a terrifying creature. Her unusual gift becomes a burden when she’s drawn into a perplexing mystery alongside a dying stranger.
H.B. Akumiah’s "Bad Witches" is a charming and lively debut that introduces readers to a world where young women discover they are witches, their newfound powers holding the key to saving the world.
Nalo Hopkinson’s "Blackheart Man" is a captivating fantasy set on the magical island of Chynchin. As the island faces threats from both within and without, this richly imagined world promises a thrilling and engaging read.
Raymond E. Feist’s "A Darkness Returns" begins a new epic fantasy series with a focus on the last scion of a dynasty. As he travels across space and time to Sorcerer’s Isle, he strives to expand his magic and ultimately save his war-torn homeland.
Jonathan Maberry’s "The Dragon in Winter" brings the Kagen the Damned Trilogy to a thrilling conclusion. Kagen and the Bloody Bastards must harness ancient magic to confront the formidable Witch-king in a final showdown.
"The Full Moon Coffee Shop" by Mai Mochizuki, translated by Jesse Kirkwood, is a charming and magical novel that reminds readers to follow their dreams, even when the path seems uncertain. A heartwarming story about second chances and embracing the unexpected.
Lana Harper’s "Rise and Divine" continues her "Witches of Thistle Grove" series. A witch haunted by loss must confront her past to save her town and the woman she loves in this captivating story that explores themes of love, resilience, and the power of family.
Shelly Jay Shore’s "Rules for Ghosting" is a poignant and tender debut about a reluctant clairvoyant who must embrace his gift to save his family’s funeral home and make a connection with a potential love interest.
Nnedi Okorafor’s "She Who Knows: Firespitter" is a captivating novella that blends science fiction and fantasy with a focus on West African spirituality and culture. This story of a teenage girl on the cusp of adulthood promises a powerful exploration of identity, power, and the future.
Pedro Domingos’ "2040: A Silicon Valley Satire" offers a satirical exploration of technology and politics in a dystopian future. Imagine a world where a presidential candidate is an AI named PresiBot, amplifying the political tensions and technological anxieties of our own time.
Frances White’s "Voyage of the Damned" is a fantasy murder mystery inspired by Agatha Christie. Set on a ship filled with magical passengers, one misfit must solve a crime to ensure his own survival.
Rachel Koller Croft’s "We Love the Nightlife" immerses readers in a dark and dazzling exploration of a toxic female friendship. Two vampires in London’s disco scene face catastrophe as their relationship spirals out of control.
Greg Keyes’ "The Wind That Sweeps the Stars" is a taut high fantasy centered on an assassin tasked with destroying an empire. This fast-paced and action-packed adventure reveals a world of power, betrayal, and the consequences of unchecked ambition.
Adalyn Grace’s "Wisteria" brings the "Belladonna" trilogy to its conclusion. Blythe Hawthorne, bound to a man whose life is far from idyllic, begins to soften her stance toward him. This final chapter promises a captivating exploration of love, forgiveness, and the complexities of relationships.
"The Year’s Best Fantasy, Volume 3", edited by Paula Guran, is a collection of 17 fantasy stories, showcasing the best of the genre. Features contributions by prominent authors including P. Djèlí Clark, Ken Liu, Catherynne M. Valente, and Nghi Vo, offering a diverse and captivating journey into the world of fantasy.
August 27: Into the Realm of Dark Fantasy and Gothic Horror
August 27th offers a selection of titles that delve into the darkness and intrigue of fantasy and horror.
Devin Madson’s "Between Dragons and Their Wrath" is the beginning of a new fantasy series filled with dragons, alchem
