Recent science fiction, fantasy, and horror literature has garnered attention for its innovative storytelling and compelling themes.
The Ballad of Black Tom by Victor LaValle, published by Penguin for £9.99, has received critical acclaim since its release in the United States in 2016. The novel addresses the legacy of H.P. Lovecraft through the eyes of Black Tom, a character who navigates life in 1920s Harlem. LaValle, a Black author, reflects on his complex relationship with Lovecraft’s work, recognizing its influence while confronting its underlying racism. The story interweaves themes of everyday horror with elements of the occult, showcasing LaValle’s unique voice.
As You Wake, Break the Shell by Becky Chambers, released by Hodderscape for £22, presents a cozy science fiction narrative set on a distant planet. The novel follows botanist Signy and rorqual pilot Cora. The story unfolds in a non-linear fashion, starting with Signy and Cora’s initial meeting and skipping ahead to their married life a decade later. While the characters and descriptions of their interplanetary environment are engaging, the pacing may frustrate some readers. The book concludes on a cliffhanger, paving the way for a potential sequel.
The Eye of Goliath, a debut novel by Diego Muzzio, translated by Rahul Bery and published by Pushkin for £12.99, explores the haunting effects of war through a tale set in a Scottish asylum circa 1920. Dr. Pierce aims to treat traumatized patients using hypnosis. One patient, David Bradley, is plagued by memories of his time in an abandoned lighthouse, where he faced both physical and psychological despair. Bradley’s diary reveals his struggle with madness, intricately linked to the eerie history of the lighthouse and its last keeper, creating a compelling gothic horror narrative.
Our Cut of Salt by Deena Helm, published by Orbit for £22, tells the story of Marina, a young American of mixed heritage who travels to Haifa to uncover her Palestinian grandmother’s past. As she explores her grandmother, Nuhad’s, childhood home—known to be haunted—Marina seeks to understand her family’s history linked to the Israeli occupation in 1948. The novel blends supernatural elements with a poignant examination of cultural loss and trauma, offering a stirring depiction of the impact of historical events on personal identity.
