In the world of speculative fiction, a new wave of books is offering diverse narratives that blend the fantastical with the philosophical. Here’s a look at some of the standout releases in science fiction, fantasy, and horror.
The Devils by Joe Abercrombie
Joe Abercrombie’s The Devils invites readers into a world where medieval tropes meet supernatural creatures. Brother Diaz, a bookish man unexpectedly appointed as the vicar of the Chapel of Holy Expediency, must lead a group of unlikely companions—a necromancer, vampire, werewolf, and elf—on a perilous journey to escort a claimant to the imperial throne. The worldbuilding is a highlight of this dark fantasy, blending elements of historical events, such as crusades and territorial disputes, with inventive, otherworldly elements like the lost empire of Carthage. The novel delivers a mix of sardonic wit, violence, and engaging characters, including Vigga, a light-hearted Viking werewolf, and Sunny, a supposedly soulless elf with a strong moral compass. While the action-packed narrative is enjoyable, the repetition and a sequel-baiting ending may leave some readers wanting more.
The Incandescent by Emily Tesh
Emily Tesh’s The Incandescent takes a fresh approach to the magical school genre, shifting the focus from teenage students to the adult teacher, Saffy Walden. As director of magic at Chetswood boarding school, Saffy must navigate the challenges of managing her students and the institution itself when an A-level class accidentally summons a dangerous demon. Tesh’s narrative deftly examines the complexities of being an educator, offering a love letter to teachers and highlighting the multifaceted nature of their work. The novel also explores the pleasures of growing up beyond adolescence, addressing themes of privilege and access to quality education. Saffy, a flawed but relatable heroine, leads this compelling, thought-provoking story.
Land of Hope by Cate Baum
Land of Hope by Cate Baum tells the story of Hope, a woman fleeing her past as the wife of a notorious serial killer. Seeking refuge as a hermit in a remote English village, Hope’s life takes a tragic turn when mysterious events lead to the death of all the villagers except for a young boy. As she journeys through a desolate landscape, Hope grapples with her own complicated emotions toward her incarcerated husband and her role in a larger disaster. The novel weaves elements of folklore and history with a haunting exploration of survival and morality. Baum’s writing is muscular and evocative, capturing the bleakness of a post-apocalyptic world while delving into the human psyche. This gripping tale challenges whether humanity’s darkest moments can lead to renewal or whether certain acts are inescapable.
A Line You Have Traced by Roisin Dunnett
Roisin Dunnett’s A Line You Have Traced intertwines the stories of three women from different eras, united by time travel and their struggles with childbearing. Bea, a Jewish woman in pre-World War II East End London, finds solace in visions of beings she calls angels as she grapples with infertility. Her great-granddaughter, Kay, is a disillusioned modern woman who believes that time travelers are trying to communicate with her. In a dystopian future, Ess, a member of a commune, follows a radical manifesto that calls for sterilization due to humanity’s impending extinction. Through time travel, Ess connects with Bea and Kay, offering a poignant look at the interconnectedness of their lives. Dunnett’s novel addresses themes of despair, political apathy, and the possibilities for change, presenting a deeply human narrative amidst its speculative framework.
The State of Journalism in 2025
As the landscape of journalism continues to evolve, we face unprecedented challenges. The traditional economic model of the news industry has been upended by the rise of technology giants, resulting in the closure or downsizing of thousands of newspapers worldwide. This shift has left a vacuum filled by social media platforms and the spread of misinformation. Alongside these economic pressures, journalists face increasing threats from authoritarian governments and political leaders who seek to control the press through exclusion, repression, and violence. In this climate, it is more important than ever to defend the values of journalism and democracy. Facts remain sacred, and the role of journalists in protecting the truth is critical to the health of democratic societies.
