Several new science fiction, fantasy, and horror titles have recently launched, showcasing a variety of themes and styles. Notable among them is Alfa by Lilja Sigurðardóttir, translated by Larissa Kyzer, published by Orenda. Set 26 years in the future, this speculative fiction depicts a Europe governed by a benevolent artificial intelligence, Alfa, based in Reykjavik. The narrative explores a society where most citizens embrace universal basic income and autonomous vehicles, while a small group of dissidents opts for an off-grid lifestyle. The tension escalates when one dissident is found murdered, leading to questions about the infallibility of the system and creating rifts within the victim’s family, including a member closely tied to Alfa.
Another intriguing release is The Lost Spectacular by Zoé Duhaime, published by Solaris. This debut novel draws inspiration from a Danish folk tale and follows the story of Lukǿje in a fictional city reminiscent of Montreal. The narrative centers on two former best friends, Munro and Noon, who become rivals after Noon inherits a bookshop Munro coveted. Munro’s obsessive desire to sabotage Noon leads to a fantastical clash where both characters confront their pasts and their disputes over magic and storytelling.
Look What the Cat Dragged In, authored by Jason Rekulak and illustrated by Doogie Horner and Will Staehle, is a horror story that follows Penny, who finds solace in her comic book creations after her cat, Popcorn, goes missing. After she agrees to foster another cat named Godfrey, sinister occurrences begin to unfold. The eerie illustrations complement the text, enhancing the chilling atmosphere of the narrative.
In China +100: Stories from a Century after the Outbreak, edited by Xueting C Ni, eleven Chinese authors envision the future of their country a century after the Covid-19 outbreak. The anthology features diverse stories that examine the impacts of innovation and climate change on society. One standout piece, “I Want a Different World” by Zhou Dedong, links the experiences of a man during the early lockdown to a future where researchers use technology to solve his mysterious disappearance.
Lastly, Everything Happens So Much by Andrew H Murray introduces a world where alternate universes can be experienced through a drug. The protagonist, Esme Good, finds herself addicted to these vicarious experiences until she becomes unexpectedly central to her own existence. This comedic fantasy blends surreal elements and humor reminiscent of Douglas Adams.
